What should you never let a mechanic say about your car?
Never let a mechanic say this if they haven’t even looked under the hood or put a car up on a lift. Generalizing common problems is a way to get car owners to pay for work cars don’t need, Consumer Reports says. What does that mean? Consumer Reports says “bad brakes” can usually be fixed by changing brake pads and turning/cleaning brake rotors.
Is there such a thing as a ” little better ” mechanic?
There is no such thing as “a little better.” The sad truth is, it’s much quicker for your mechanic to guess, than it is to perform the lengthy steps needed to effect an accurate, first time diagnosis. It’s much simpler to sell you the most common repair for your particular concern, and then deal with the problem further if needed.
Can a mechanic refuse to give you your car back?
Well, the general answer is no. There is really only one situation in which a mechanic can refuse to give your car back. We’ll talk about that a little later. Generally speaking, a mechanic doesn’t have the right to keep your car, no matter how unsafe the car is to drive.
How can you tell if a mechanic is a good mechanic?
Rudloff says another sign of a not-so-good-mechanic is their inability to fix your vehicle correctly the first time. “I would recommend that if you are regularly finding that you must take your car back for a “refix,” you have not found the right mechanic,” he says.
Never let a mechanic say this if they haven’t even looked under the hood or put a car up on a lift. Generalizing common problems is a way to get car owners to pay for work cars don’t need, Consumer Reports says. What does that mean? Consumer Reports says “bad brakes” can usually be fixed by changing brake pads and turning/cleaning brake rotors.
What should you do if your mechanic tells you something is too complicated?
Sometimes it is hard to know whether damage happened at the shop unless you examine your car closely. But a mechanic who is trying to pass the buck on damage that couldn’t have happened anywhere other than in the shop is obviously one to avoid. “It’s complicated.” If someone tells you that something is too complicated to understand, run away.
There is no such thing as “a little better.” The sad truth is, it’s much quicker for your mechanic to guess, than it is to perform the lengthy steps needed to effect an accurate, first time diagnosis. It’s much simpler to sell you the most common repair for your particular concern, and then deal with the problem further if needed.
What makes a good mechanic or repair center?
In all of my years in the field, I’ve always prided myself on several things: professionalism, customer service, accurate diagnosis, and compassion towards my customers’ financial situation, to name a few. Unfortunately, not all professional mechanics and repair center owner/operators are created equal.
What should I know before I take my Car to the mechanic?
If the technician isn’t able to contact you to approve a repair, the car will sit and remain unattended for that much longer. Likewise, you’ll want to know that the car is ready and how much the service will cost before heading back to the shop.
Sometimes it is hard to know whether damage happened at the shop unless you examine your car closely. But a mechanic who is trying to pass the buck on damage that couldn’t have happened anywhere other than in the shop is obviously one to avoid. “It’s complicated.” If someone tells you that something is too complicated to understand, run away.
In all of my years in the field, I’ve always prided myself on several things: professionalism, customer service, accurate diagnosis, and compassion towards my customers’ financial situation, to name a few. Unfortunately, not all professional mechanics and repair center owner/operators are created equal.
When to decline service from a car mechanic?
If you’re going in for an oil change and tire rotation at 20,000 miles and the dealership’s service representative “recommends” other work based on mileage, you’re well within your rights to decline, Edmunds says. Again, not a lie. Prepaid maintenance is convenient for a dealership and its service department.
When to get a second opinion with a car mechanic?
Mechanics know that most people don’t know anything about their cars, so they prey on your fears that you’ll not want to break down on the side of the road. If a mechanic is trying to coerce you in this way, get a second opinion immediately.
When do You Know you need a new engine?
“and said I need a new engine because two of the four control arms are worn or broken.” Engines don’t have “control arms”…Find a decent shop. There are engine flush products that will help de-sludge your engine. Use one now, change your oil again at 1000 miles. Your noise sounds more like the valves need adjusting. Again, find a REAL mechanic.
What should you do if your car mechanic says to replace everything?
If the mechanic says to replace everything, get a second opinion. “Things that should be inspected and you can ask to look at to determine if they need to be changed include air filters, brake pads, and other wear items like tires and wiper blades,” DeLorenzo says.
Do you have to go to the mechanic every time your car has a check engine light?
There is a little known fact that the entire automotive repair industry doesn’t want you to know: you don’t need to have costly repairs done every time the check engine light comes on. There are a decent number of these DTCs that don’t require any repairs.
What to do when your car mechanic is out of commission?
In addition to unforeseen car troubles, the mechanic may become ill, have a family emergency, or otherwise be out of commission for a few days. Asking the mechanic to keep you apprised on any new developments with the car repairs can help your peace of mind, especially if you’ve been placed at a severe inconvenience without your vehicle.
How is YourMechanic better than other auto shops?
Our expert, highly rated mechanics provide services in over 700 U.S. cities. The service is not only convenient, it’s also more affordable. Since our mechanics are mobile, we have significantly lower overhead costs compared to auto shops. And as a national brand, we are able to negotiate better prices from auto parts vendors.
Can a mechanic tell you something about your car?
Nearly everyone has gone to the local shop for routine auto maintenance only to drive away after paying a lot more in unexpected charges. Most mechanics are honest, hardworking people who only want to help you by pointing out problems you may not know about.
Is it appropriate to tip a car mechanic?
A tip would be appropriate in this particular situation. If the mechanic does a great job, you can also give them a tip. This might be especially useful on a tricky or lengthy repair. If you have a great relationship with your mechanic, you might be more inclined to tip them.
In addition to unforeseen car troubles, the mechanic may become ill, have a family emergency, or otherwise be out of commission for a few days. Asking the mechanic to keep you apprised on any new developments with the car repairs can help your peace of mind, especially if you’ve been placed at a severe inconvenience without your vehicle.
Can you get a second opinion from a car mechanic?
A mechanic should also be able to provide an estimate for service. Lastly, they should be able to show the damage or wear to as vehicle. If they can’t show any of that, get a second opinion. Absolutely not.
If you’re going in for an oil change and tire rotation at 20,000 miles and the dealership’s service representative “recommends” other work based on mileage, you’re well within your rights to decline, Edmunds says. Again, not a lie. Prepaid maintenance is convenient for a dealership and its service department.