How do I choose an auto repair shop?



There are several different things to look for when choosing an auto repair shop, here are just a few.

Like a doctor or any other professional, it's best to find a good repair shop before you need one. Hunting through the Yellow Pages for a repair shop while waiting for a tow truck is not the way to go. You're not likely to make as good a decision when you're under pressure. The best way to find a shop is on the recommendation of a trusted friend or acquaintance. Ask friends, neighbors, family member and coworkers if they use a shop that they are happy with. Preferably , a shop with which they've had a relationship for a year or more. This shop is likely to be an excellent choice.

If you can't find someone with a recommendation and you're forced to go shop hunting on your own, here are a few suggestions:

1. When calling on the phone, look for someone who answers the phone courteously and professionally. If they must return your phone call, look for promptness.

2. Its always a good idea to check with the CAA or other consumer organizations for referred shops. Organizations like the CAA usually research their approved shops and keep records on them.

3. Don't choose a shop strictly on a convenient location or business hours. No matter how close the shop may be to work or home, it's never convenient to have to take your car back two or three times for the same problem. When choosing a shop, consider convenience as a bonus, not a major criterion. Convenient is a shop that does everything you need ... minor services, routine maintenance, major repairs, glass, etc. That way, no matter what your car needs, you know that that shop can handle it for you.






4. The shop should be relatively clean and well organized. The staff should be well dressed and courteous.

5. Make sure the shop works on your make of vehicle. Some shops specialize in one or two makes. If you own a Chevy and the shop just repairs Hondas, that shop is not for you no matter how good they are. Be sure to ask if they work on your make of vehicle and perform the type of repair you need.

6. Don't be concerned with the labor rate. The labor rate does not dictate how much your bill will be. Charges are generally based on time multiplied by a labor rate. But there is nothing to say that two shops will charge the same amount of time for the same job. Which is less expensive, 2 hours at $80 per hour or 3 hours at $70 per hour? Furthermore, there is no "book time" or "flat rate" time for diagnosis. The correct diagnosis at $100 per hour could be a lot less expensive than an incorrect one a $50 per hour. The point is, a competent shop is likely to save you money by correctly and efficiently diagnosing and repairing the problem, regardless of the labor rate. They won't be replacing parts that are not defective.

7. Ask the shop for several names of satisfied customers. They should be willing to provide that information.

The important thing is to find a shop that you trust and stick with them. Just as your doctor comes to know you and your medical history, by being loyal to one shop, the shop gets to know you, your car and its "medical" history. A shop can then check the entire history of your maintenance and repairs, saving both time and money in terms of diagnosis, maintenance and repairs. Another perk is that a loyal customer is more likely to be given special consideration in times of need, such as that occasional and unavoidable delay when you can't get there before the shop closes, you need immediate advise, or warranty extensions when a part fails just outside of warranty. Loyalty has its rewards.




Any more questions?

Direct them to mike@robinsonautomotive.com