How To Find A Good Mechanic

Introduction

Finding a car mechanic is like choosing any other small business. Look for quality, value and service.

Step One

Ask trusted friends for recommendations.

Step Two

Talk to people who have cars similar to yours, if you are new to an area.

Step Three

Make sure the mechanic you've chosen services your type of car. Look around the shop and see what kinds of cars are being worked on.

Step Four

Call the Better Business Bureau to check whether the shop has any complaints on file.

Step Five

Check whether the shop is accredited by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA).

Step Six

Ask whether the shop's auto mechanics are certified by accredited industry bodies.

Step Seven

Check the warranty on the repair work before leaving the car at the shop. Six months is great; 90 days is good; 30 days is a little suspect. Find out whether the warranty covers both parts and labor.

Step Eight

Ask for a full explanation of what is going to be done to the car.

Step Nine

Find out what the shop's hours are. Will it be open when you get off work? Is the shop near the bus or train? Will you get a loaner while your car is being worked on?

Tips & Warnings

Don't wait until your car needs major repairs or a tow to find a good auto mechanic. Bring your car into the shop for small stuff like oil changes and brake checks to get a feel for the place and develop a relationship.

Don't choose a shop based solely on price. The least expensive aito repair shop might not be the best place to go. At the same time, the most expensive shop (usually the dealership) may not give you the best service or quality.

To any business that isn't playing fair, an educated customer is a scary customer. Before going into any automotive service business you should arm yourself with knowledge about every facet of the interaction you will be experiencing. Please take the time to visit and the many information pages on this website, especially the shop scams page.