For many of us, our vehicle is our second largest purchase (behind a home) and provides critical transportation to support our busy work and family lives.  So it’s critical we maintain our car and have repairs done reliably and cost effectively to limit our vehicle’s down time and limit our cost of ownership.

To keep your vehicle running at peak performance we recommend developing a trusted relationship with a local mechanic.  But how do we select and build a relationship with a trusted mechanic to keep you moving?   We’ve compiled a list of suggestions below:

1.Get references:

Often the best referrals come from your friends, neighbors and family.  Word-of-mouth referrals generally mean you’ll get honest insight about experiences with various auto repair shops.  No one refers friends and family to a business they had a bad experience with.

2.Develop a relationship before you need a repair

If your radiator is smoking or your car won’t start, chances are you are in a hurry to fix the problem.  These are not good times to pick a new mechanic as your decision could be based on things like availability vs quality work and cost effectiveness.  Try to develop a relationship with a repair shop before an emergency strikes.

3.Price is an important factor but not the only factor

No one wants to pay more than they should so it’s a great idea to research and compare prices.  But the cheapest rate may not always have the worst services; likewise, the most expensive might not offer the highest level of service.  In addition to hourly rates ask about the quality of parts used, the qualification to the mechanics, etc.

4.Check online reviews

Online reviews are a great source of customer experiences with auto mechanics in your area.  Look at online reviews from unbiased consumers. Angie’s List is helpful as are Google reviews, Yelp and comments on Facebook and other social media.

5.Ask the hard questions

As the customer, you have the right to ask a repair shop about their credentials, experience, customer service and warranty policies. Search for shops that offer warranties on parts and a guarantee on workmanship.  Also ask about the certifications held by the mechanics such as the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certificate and the years of experience by technicians.

6.Get estimates

If you are in a bind and your vehicle needs major repairs, take the time to get a few estimates.  This is vital especially if you do not have a regular repair shop.  Estimates (obtained in writing) will keep the shop honest and on task.  Additionally, ask for a call by the repair shop if actual costs will exceed the estimate.

7.Make the shop explain it so that you understand

Technical mechanical terms can sometimes sound like a foreign language.  Don’t be ashamed to ask your technician to explain issues with your car, truck or SUV in simple terms you can understand.