Your Mechanic

How well do you know your auto mechanic?

If you're as fortunate as some are, you may have a car mechanic as a personal friend, however, that's not the case for most of us. And, for most of us, this equates to many anxious moments of trying to understand and communicate with an auto mechanic.

Auto mechanics are people

Your auto mechanic is, fundamentally, no different than you. They have to wake up early, have their coffee, get dressed and go to work. They work in an environment that is hot, smelly, dirty and dangerous for a boss (or customers) who probably under appreciates the work that they do and is always trying to get them to do it for less money... just like you.

Why do they do what they do?

Why do they do this? Because they love being dirty and smelly, as long as they get to work on cars.

You will find that many auto mechanics are happiest when they are either waist deep in an engine compartment, or talking with other gear heads about the last time the were waist deep in an engine compartment.

Why don't they seem to like you?

First of all, do you like your boss? Most of us look at our bosses as posturing, blow-hards that know nothing about what you do or what they are asking you to do. You are essentially their boss, so it's not that they don't like you, but it sometimes comes as part of the relationship.

Secondly, many auto mechanics relate better to a crankshaft than to people, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. After all, do you want someone working on your car who knows how to do the job right, or do you want them to be a good conversationalist?

Respect thy auto mechanic

At the end of the day, mechanics work hard (mostly) at making sure you and your family is safe on the road. They may not look, or sound the way you would want them to around the dinner table, but get over it. Your mechanic is a blue collar, hard working, sweaty, mans man and that's the best way for them to be.

You may be a doctor who can do things that a mechanic could only dream of, but it would be a good bet that they could do things that would amaze you too. And, if they are doing their job right, Mr. or Mrs. MD, they can make your job a lot easier by giving people safe and healthy transportation that keeps them out of the emergency room.

Demand respect from thy mechanic

You are the boss (see above), so act like it. Hiring a car mechanic is no different from hiring an employee. Don't be afraid to "have a talk" with you mechanic and let him know what's on your mind and what your expectations are.

In many cases, you'll find that a simple discussion about things will either put your mind at ease about the job being done, or, will tip you off that something might be wrong or not quite on the level.

In any case, trust your instincts. If something doesn't seem quite right (see our scams page), don't be afraid to walk away (you are the customer) and find another mechanic, it's that simple.