For many people, the inner-workings of their car are a mystery. The average driver knows where to put the gas, how to top off fluids and how to put air in the tires. For all groans, knocks and dings we rely on mechanics to diagnose and treat our ailing vehicles. If you’ve found it necessary to have your car treated by a professional, knowing whether or not you’ve chosen the right one can be overwhelming. Here’s how to know that you’ve made the right choice.
1. Location
The mechanic that you’ve chosen should be located in an area that is convenient for you to get to. Remember that you may need to enlist the help of a friend or family member to get you to and from the shop; you don’t want to have to drive for hours to get there. A mechanic that is close to home will be the most convenient for you when your car needs to be serviced.
2. Cleanliness
While working on cars isn’t the cleanest of professions, your mechanic’s waiting room should be spacious and clean. While your mechanic’s shop doesn’t have to hold massage chairs and fancy coffee, it should be in relatively good shape with little dirt accumulation. A waiting room that looks like it hasn’t been touched with a cleaning rag in a decade could signify a lack of care when it comes to the people who work in the building.
3. Communication
Your mechanic should be happy to explain to you, in as much detail as you wish, what is wrong with your car and how long it will take to fix. If your mechanic has to order parts or experiences other delays, he or she should let you know that there will be a delay in the repairs. You shouldn’t have to call your mechanic on a daily basis to inquire as to the status of your vehicle.
4. OEM Parts
Finding a mechanic who uses OEM or other new parts is important, particularly if your car is newer. If you are involved in an accident or need work done on your car for another reason, you shouldn’t have to settle for aftermarket replacement parts. If you want your car back in the same condition it was in before it broke down, you’ll want a mechanic that uses original parts for your type of vehicle. Get all the information related to vehicle parts at martin-bike.com to help you out during your next journey.
5. Specialization
The mechanic you have chosen should specialize in your vehicle type, especially if you have an antique vehicle or a luxury automobile. While most mechanics can work on virtually any car, finding one that specializes in your type of vehicle can provide you with peace of mind. When you trust your car to a mechanic, you want to be sure that it will be repaired properly the first time.
When looking for a mechanic, be sure to ask friends and family who they trust for their own cars. Read reviews online, look for any complaints with the Better Business Bureau and be sure to visit the shop before you make up your mind. If you perform due diligence when selecting a mechanic, you can be sure that your vehicle will come out of the shop fixed and running perfectly. Additionally, if you own a BMW or any other luxury car, inquire if the mechanic uses high-quality BMW oil specifically formulated for your vehicle’s engine.
Mike Nichols writes for several insurance blogs and suggests that it’s worth taking a look at your old policies and compare coverage and prices.
