Finding the Right Auto Service Shop

Finding the Right Auto Service Shop depends on paying attention to the right metrics
Photo by CC user CZmarlin on Wikimedia Commons.

No one likes taking their car in for repairs – it can be very stressful on a number of different levels. First, you are going to be without your car for a period of time and need to figure out how to take care of basic transportation. Second, you know you are going to have to open your wallet, but probably don’t have any idea how much the repairs are going to cost. Third, you may feel completely out of your element and concerned that you are about to get taken advantage of and have no way to prevent it. Working with a reputable auto shop like Omega Auto Care can help to reduce the stress of the situation. No matter where you take your car, here are some things to keep an eye out for to help you know if you are in the right place.

Is the shop AAR affiliated?

Look for a sign that indicates the shop you are considering is AAA Approved Auto Repair (AAR) affiliated. This affiliation can go a long way towards providing some peace of mind because affiliated shops are monitored for the quality of their service, and are required to use certified mechanics. It is always a good idea to try to meet the mechanic who will be working on your car so that you can ask about their certification and special training, but if you are not able to identify beforehand who will be working on your car, you will at least be sure that the mechanic will be certified and will have passed a skills and knowledge test.

Is it clean?

It might seem a relatively minor concern if the shop is clean, but it is actually quite telling not only about the degree of customer service that you can expect but also about the professionalism of the management team and the mechanics themselves. A dirty waiting room is not only unpleasant but can also be an indication of the shop’s inattention to its customers. Unsanitary washrooms are an especially important indicator of customer service – especially the women’s washroom. It is still the case that many women feel “on guard” in repair shops because it is sadly a fact that women are often overcharged and provided with substandard service, and unclean facilities can point to inattention to the needs of female customers.

Will the mechanic explain things?

Especially if you are not familiar with the inner workings of your car, it can be overwhelming to try to decipher a lot of technical jargon as the mechanic explains what is wrong with your car and what it will take to fix. Be sure that your mechanic is willing to take the time needed to explain the problem in terms that you can understand, and provides a clear and detailed quote of the repairs that are needed.

Will the shop guarantee the work?

Be sure that the shop will guarantee both the parts and the work on your car for a reasonable period of time. Ideally, a shop will offer some form of warranty which will allow you to return at no charge if the work was not done correctly or if the part turned to be a dud.

There are many excellent auto repair shops from which you can choose when you need work done on your car. Be sure to take the time necessary to find the best one for you, and trust your instincts!