When you take your car in to the automotive shop, you really don’t know what to expect. A long list of parts to be replaced or just one that will cost you a fortune! Rather than repairs, you’re anxious to know what it’s going to cost you this time around, but just like buying anything in life, the more you know, the better you can analyze things and make rational decisions. At often times, when you go in for a routine oil service, you end up paying more than you expected for parts that your car can live without at that very moment. This doesn’t imply that all dealerships and car mechanics are out to cheat you, but there are some that do just that.
Even though a dealership may have a strong reputation and work ethics, everyone wants to make money in this financial weather so instead of getting ripped off on your next visit to the service station, having a little knowledge will definitely work in your favor. Listed below are a few common ways of dealing with maintenance and repair circumstances.
1.Before going in for maintenance or repairs, make sure that you have your car owners and repairs manual handy. The repair manual may be available as a downloadable version online or you can pick up an original copy at your nearest auto-parts store. When you go in for repairs, this guide will help you understand and communicate better with the mechanic.
Communication is extremely important because you may end up with a bigger bill if things are not clarified from the start.
2.If the problem is related to safety in your vehicle such as seatbelts or airbags, it is recommended that you take into a dealer certified shop. Chances are that the part in question may have a recall and you may end up getting it replaced for free.
3.If you don’t fit the above category, then be prepared to pay a few repair costs. if you haven’t visited the specific repair shop before, it is best to read a few testimonials and reviews to see what previous customers had to day. Even if you’ve been to the dealer before, it is recommended that you do a search, and not for a reputation check, but for prices for the repairs you’re going in for. Chances are that you may need to get your oil changed as well as your tires rotated, but you only want to do the former at the moment to cut costs. But there may be a repair shop that’s offering you a discounted rate if you get both, making this a better option because getting your wheels rotated is very important, you save money and an extra trip and time to the garage.
4.Once you’ve found a car repair shop and have been made aware of the repairs, you may need to drop the car off for a day or two, depending on the work. Before doing so, it is important to get a written quotation of all the work involved and the total cost and guarantees on the work, if any.
5.Once the repairs are complete, take the copy of the quotation, and check the vehicle according to the list. Don’t be shy to ask questions about each part that was fixed if that satisfies you, because remember you’re paying big money for this service.
6.After you make the payment, ensure that you keep the quotation, the final bill and any warranty documents in a safe place, because you may need them incase problems related to the repairs originate in the near future.
It is always a good idea to print out and keep a copy of car maintenance tips handy in your glove box, but the information listed above are some of the basics guidelines one must know when visiting a shop for car service or repairs.
