We’ve all heard about – or experienced – a car repair nightmare. You walk into a shop hoping for the best only to watch your money disappear with no clear understanding of what you just paid for.Members of your Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals (NARPRO) offer these tips to help you avoid being taken for a ride:

Use the ‘Show Me’ Method

• When the mechanic tells you something’s broken or worn out your reply should be, “Show me”. A lot of required maintenance is obvious to the eyes – like holes and leaks. A reputable mechanic will gladly show and explain any needed repairs.

Don’t Wing It

• No one likes to feel vulnerable when it comes to money and cars so ask around before you need a mechanic. Be sure to use a mechanic that is ASE certified. Poorly done repairs can cost you down the road.
• Independent shops can perform the same work as dealerships, often at lower costs.

Know Before You Go

• Take a few minutes to look over your car’s maintenance schedule. If you don’t have the original book that came with the car you can find the suggested maintenance schedule online. If a mechanic tells you it’s time for an alignment you’ll have an informed response.

Look Out For Fees

• When you get a quote be sure to ask if it includes all fees and taxes. If you get a bill that’s higher than your estimate because the mechanic failed to include fees, you should ask them to honor the estimate.

Track Your Maintenance

• Whether you have the mechanic fill out the maintenance book that came with the car, keep all your car receipts in one folder, or track your service records online, having a system can help make sure you’re not repeating a repair that’s not needed. Good records may also help you get a better price when you sell your car.

NARPRO (Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals) The Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals (NARPRO) helps car owners find skilled and honest car repair shops. NARPRO only recommends independent, family-owned, full-service auto repair shops that have passed 26 rigorous tests. Visit www.NARPRO.com  to find recommended shops near work or home. NARPRO is the easiest way to find an honest mechanic in the Valley.