Checklist for Choosing an Auto Repair Shop |
|---|
|
Joey Faircloth
22 July 2015
Realizing that your car needs repairs is not a pleasant experience, especially because this usually happens at the wrong time of the month. Dealing with auto repairs is a hassle for everyone. However, you can make things a bit easier for yourself by choosing an auto repair shop that is good for the job. Here is a list of things that you should consider when selecting auto repair professionals.
Certification and licensing
Do not give your car to an auto repair shop that hires professionals who are not certified and licensed. In order for one to be able to properly repair car problems, they need to undergo training and get licensed to provide these services. Remember, if a car is not correctly handled, it can lead to auto accidents and this is the last thing you need.
Insurance
If you are entrusting your car with someone, you need to be certain that the particular person has put in place protective measures to cover you in the event that something goes wrong. An auto repair company that is insured is a plus. Also, in matters insurance, you need to work with an auto repair shop that has an agreement with your insurance provider. Auto repairs can be expensive, and auto insurance exists so that it can make this burden bearable. It is necessary to discuss this with the auto repair shop as you talk about the charges that you will be expected to pay.
Customer service
If you call the auto repair shop and the call is answered by the machine, hang up and call the next shop. An auto repair shop that takes its customers seriously will ensure that all calls are answered promptly and arising matters are addressed swiftly. When your car breaks down, you need someone who can attend to you immediately, especially when this break down happens in the middle of nowhere, leaving you stranded.
Cleanliness
Pay a visit to the auto repair shop and look around. If the place looks like a dumping site, that's a red flag. Just because auto repair involves messy work does not mean that there need to be spills and trash everywhere.
Friendliness and professionalism
While on your visit to the auto repair shop, pay attention to how the staff relate to each other and the customers. If there seems to be some hostility in the relations, consider what this means for you in the long run. Auto repair sometimes requires teamwork, and if the staff cannot operate as a team, then it is likely that you will not get value for your money.
Transparency
And lastly, when it comes to costs, a good auto repair shop will be completely transparent about the costs that you will be expected to meet. This way, there will be no unexplained additional costs that will crop up along the way. Ask about this, and verify anything that is not clear before you get your car to the repair shop.
Also, don't forget to ask for references, and if possible, check the auto repair shop's online reviews for some insight.