Trusting your gut is generally good advice and so is listening to certified mechanics. With so many people planning holiday road trips, they’ll be getting oil changes and repairs, too. Your Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals (NARPRO) share insider information to help you avoid getting taken for a ride.
If you see this, leave:
- A messy work area cluttered with dirty rags, oil cans, old tires.
- A blank work authorization form. Never sign it.
If you hear this, leave – or at least ask questions:
- “I wouldn’t drive your car one more mile without getting this work done.”
- “We don’t need fancy equipment here.”
Always ask these questions:
- “What kind of certification do your mechanics have?” Reputable shops generally display certifications from ASE and National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
- “What’s the build date for the new tires?”
Other insider tips:
- Watch out for cheap deals. Shops can’t make money off a $100 brake job and some may find other ways to make a profit.
- Transmission flushes are almost never needed.
- Synthetic motor oils cost more but you’ll get more miles between changes.
- Avoid cheap replacement parts made in China. Ask for brand-name replacements and ask to see its box.
- Avoid late Friday afternoon repair jobs. Some mechanics may feel rushed to get out for the weekend.
- Always get a specific estimate for each job and warranties that apply.
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.