Like any professional, it's best to find one before you need one. When it comes to auto repair, the same advice applies. The time to start looking for an auto repair facility is not when you're broken down on the side of the highway, waiting for a tow truck. The best way to find an auto repair center is through someone you trust who has used this shop's services and is satisfied with the results. Even with a recommendation, there are certain things that you want to keep in mind when choosing an auto repair center.
A good place to start in finding which shops are located nearby is online. Google and other search engines will display results based on your area. Many times, results that show up will also have reviews associated with them. Reading these reviews can give you an idea of what kind of experience previous customers have had with the shop. It is also good to look at the facility's website to see if it looks professional and well put together.
What professional affiliations does the shop have?
The first thing you might do when deciding on a new shop to bring your vehicle to is find out from the BBB if the shop you considering has had any complaints. If the shop hasn't had any complaints it doesn't necessarily mean that they're worthy of your business, it's just a good place to start. A shop that is approved through Automobile Association means that it has investigated the shop and has contacted a number of previous customers to determine if the shop has met their standards. They asks these customers questions like:
1. Was vehicle repaired on time?
2. Was the vehicle repaired correctly the first time?
3. Was the customer greeting in a prompt and courteous manner?
4. Did they offer a ride to the customer if they needed one?
5. Was the customer waiting area clean and comfortable?
6. Was the original estimate accurate?
Another thing to look find out if the mechanics at the shop are ASE certified. ASE provides certifications for different areas in automotive technology. A shop where a majority of mechanics there has multiple ASE certifications is usually a good sign that they will be competent with repairing your vehicle.
Does the shop have modern equipment?
A good indicator of whether or not a shop will be able to service your vehicle properly is the type of equipment they have. Equipment such as state of the art scanners and diagnostic equipment are essential in obtaining an accurate diagnosis of your vehicle.
Is the auto shop a complete auto repair shop?
It is best to find a shop that can take care of all of your vehicle's repair needs such as:
Engine and drive train
Brakes and suspension
Radiator and cooling system repair
Air conditioning
Mufflers and exhaust
Foreign vehicle repair
Another important factor is the warranty the shop offers. A really good warranty is one that covers 18 months or 18000 miles, parts and labor. That means that the auto repair center stands behind its work.
