Your car is a continuous engine. Sooner or later, it will need repairs to maintain and run it. Although you can do it yourself in a number of situations, most of us prefer to take our car to a mechanic. Of course, you must first find a good one.
You can open a telephone directory or do an online search and find many car mechanics in your area. The problem is finding out who is good and who is not. There are no easy answers, but there are steps you can take that will reduce the risk of getting a bad mechanic or someone who will rip you off.
Be specific
The car is unique. Every brand has an oddity. This is why it is best to find a mechanic that works on your specific brand. If you have BWM, look for Beemer mechanics. If you own a Chevy, then don’t take it to a Beemer mechanic. Mechanics who work on certain car brands know the ins and outs of that car, which tends to produce better improvements for your car.
Ask around
Unless you drive a Ferrari or Lamborghini, you might know someone else who drives the same car that you do. Ask people of this type that they use for their repairs. People are generally wary of mechanics, so it will be easy to recognize good mechanics because the person will be full of good things to say.
Get it in writing
Honesty is a sign of good mechanics. Giving written quotes is a sign of honesty in the car repair industry. If the prospective mechanic you are talking to will not give you a written estimate, you will have to leave the store without looking back.
Guarantee
Depending on the repair, some mechanics can actually guarantee the work. Saying they will do it doesn’t mean much, but written guarantees don’t. Not all mechanics will do this, but those who do it are very credible and you can expect them to do a good job on your car.
Store appearance
You will often be told that you need to find a very clean shop. This is not necessarily true. I once made the mistake of buying MG. Small cars that are fun to drive until it’s clear the car will break down every two weeks. After trying a number of mechanics, I was finally able to find “men” in the city. He works in a shop that can be described as looking like a stormy day … every day! He is as rude as his shop, but do you know what? He not only repaired my car, he did it cheaply and the animal ran better than the day I bought it.
Finding a good mechanic for your car can be a real task. Do not give up! A good mechanic can keep your car running for years, which is a blessing lately.
