The most important step in avoiding getting ripped off is finding a good mechanic. In fact it is so important, an entire link category on this topic page is dedicated to the subject. To get started, ask for recommendations from friends and family. Compare the warranty policy each mechanic offers. What kind of certification does the mechanic have? ASE certification is available in 8 different specialties, so make sure the certification applies to the work you need done. Is the shop AAA approved? Have there been complaints lodged with the local Better Business Bureau? When you are in the shop, how are other customers being treated? Do the mechanics listen to the customer’s auto symptoms, explain all recommendations and take the time to answer questions?
Get everything in writing. This includes estimates, work orders and the warranty policy. Surprises may be pleasant at birthday parties, but rarely so at a mechanic! If a mechanic tells you he can’t provide a written estimate, take your car elsewhere. For major work, be sure to be quoted a maximum possible charge. An estimate should identify the condition to be repaired, the parts needed, and the anticipated labor charge. It should also state that the shop will contact you for approval before they do any work exceeding a specified amount of time or money. State law may require this. Work orders should never be signed if they are blank. Make sure you are able to describe your car’s symptoms and they are reflected in orders clearly and specifically. A good order might read “Diagnose loss of all electrical power including lights, radio, automatic seatbelts; problem occurs only when engine is cold” instead of vague orders such as “Repair electrical system”. Remember to verify the shop’s warranty policy, and get this in writing as well.
Before you allow the work to be carried out, ask yourself if the recommended work applies to the problem. This may require some very basic automotive knowledge on your part. The time invested in educating yourself is worth it! While a good mechanic will tell you of other potential problems, he should also define which problems are a “must fix” and which are “recommended fixes”. Even then, it is your decision as to what work actually gets done.
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