Is Your Mechanic Ripping You Off?

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Get References

While the best reference is word of mouth from friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, or other trusted community associates; you can also get great referrals from your own auto insurance agent.  Most agents have knowledge of reputable auto mechanics or at least those who are certified with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP).

Do An Online Search

     
If you do not have the advantage of having a mechanic who comes highly recommended, do a search online for any information you can find about the mechanic you are considering. You may not even need a mechanic and might be able to do the job yourself and save some cash.  Auto-facts.org consumers can ask mechanics questions and receive immediate advice for free. Trustmymechanic.com has a list of online tutorials that can give you the rundown on a lot of common car problems to help you better asses your mechanics estimate.

Get Multiple Assessments

All consumers (and especially those with newer vehicles) are recommended to get two or three assessments of repairs and written estimates of cost prior to authorizing work as they can be duped easily otherwise – being charged for parts that were never replaced at all or for work that was never done.

Consumer Resources

Although most repair shops will have a few disgruntled customer complaints, the shops of concern would be those who have the most complaints with one or all of the available consumer protection agencies:                                                             

The American Automotive Association (AAA), the Better Business Bureau (BBB),
Ripoff Report.com, Federal Trade Commission Consumer Protection Agency, FTCcomplaintassistant.gov

In order to guard yourself from becoming a victim, you are strongly encouraged to keep a vehicle repair log with dates, mileage, maintenance, and repairs in order to better protect yourself.  Once repairs are required, ensure that the shop will honor any existing warranties on parts and labor and do not to volunteer opinions about work necessary needed you are absolutely certain of it. Consumers are advised to request a written estimate, whether or not repairs are guaranteed. And remember, if a deal on maintenance or repairs seem too good to be true, it is likely a front for a mechanic who will add many other supposedly needed repairs to the bill.

 

 

 

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