Most people aren’t familiar with cars

Some repairs are unavoidable, but if you anticipate your vehicle’s needs by regularly maintaining it, like cleanings at the dentist, you’ll stave off more costly repairs in the future. Oil changes, new tires and brake fixes are just a few basic vehicle repairs that you will need to have done over the course of the life of any car. You could save time and money by planning in advance, so when there is an emergency you’re not searching for roadside assistance, then at the mercy of the garage to which you’ve been towed. Before maintenance or a breakdown is looming, look for a trustworthy mechanic, and get those items checked and fixed, if necessary.

Shops and dealerships will bill you their hourly rate regardless of the skill of the technician on the job. Ask about the technicians the shop employs, and if they are fully ASE or factory certified. Don’t be afraid to ask to see the certifications or talk with the technicians. Some shops claim to be ASE certified, yet have only one certified technician out of the multiple technicians employed.

If you find yourself making multiple visits to a shop to fix the same problem, you might be in the wrong place. Sometimes, it’s worth an extra $10-$20 per hour in labor rates for an experienced technician. The one who’s “seen it all” will be better able to diagnose and fix your car properly the first time, and put you back on the road within the original repair estimate.Know when to change the oil (many cars do not need oil changes every 3,000 miles), know when to rotate your tires, and when to change the spark plugs. Be informed, so that when the shop calls to recommend a coolant flush or transmission fluid, you’re able to confidently decline, knowing that service isn’t needed until 100,000 miles. The owner’s manual is a great starting point – pay particular attention to the recommended-maintenance section, which outlines what your vehicle needs to run better and longer. To create brand loyalists, it behooves the manufacturer to control vehicle ALL Auto Repair Software costs.

Most people aren’t familiar with cars, and don’t have unlimited funds, so it’s understandable that most people have a negative association with vehicle repair. A good automotive technician should take time to explain what’s needed now and in the future, what you’re paying for, and why it’s important. Explain your concerns and seek honest advice so the shop techs may better understand your needs. Potential customers rely heavily on online reviews, and it’s in every shop’s interest to create happy customers who feel well-informed about their inevitable regular visits for car repair and maintenance.