You’ve been late for work once already this week so when your car’s engine starts making a noise like a pack of hungry dingoes gargling gravel, your heart sinks.
You pull over quickly, pop the bonnet, and stare blankly at the tangled mess of wires and hoses, having absolutely no clue what’s going on. So you start frantically Googling “car mechanic shop near me.”
In your haste you settle for the first one you can find – only to be greeted with a greasy grin and a quote so hefty, at first you think that they’re joking.
Sounds horrendous, right? Well, it doesn’t have to be…
In this blog we’re going to share some basic tips to help you find a car mechanic repair shop you can trust to keep your wallet happy and your motor running smoothly.
Assess their Qualifications and Certifications
First things first, you want to make sure the mechanic knows what they’re doing. After all, you wouldn’t let a butcher perform brain surgery, would you?
You’ve got options. So, look for a mechanic with the right qualifications and certifications. This shows they have the training and expertise necessary to work on your specific make and model.
You can usually find this information on their website or by simply asking them when you call for a quote.
Don’t be shy! It’s your car, and you have every right to know who’s going to be hacking away at it.
Read Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Today, it’s too convenient to research businesses online not to do it. Before you even think about booking your car in anywhere, head online and see what other customers are saying about them.
Check out their Google reviews, Facebook page, or any other online platforms where they have a presence.
Are people raving about their honest service and reasonable prices? Or are they complaining about shoddy workmanship and hidden charges?
Look for red flags and learn to spot the people who just love a good moan, and those who have a genuine reason to be unsatisfied. Pay attention to the overall sentiment. A few negative reviews here and there are normal, but if the majority of people are singing their praises, it’s usually a pretty good sign.
Compare Services and Pricing
Don’t just jump at the first car mechanic shop that pops up on your Google search. Take your time, compare services and pricing from different garages, and get a feel for what’s reasonable.
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.
When comparing quotes, make sure you’re comparing apples with apples. Are they including VAT? Are parts included in the price? Are there any hidden fees you should be aware of?
A reputable car mechanic repair shop will be transparent about their pricing and won’t try to sneak in any cheeky surprises.Is your car overdue a little TLC? Contact us today at My Mechanics to book a car mechanic repair service and let’s get you back on the road.
