Cars break down. When they do, you need to take them to a mechanic. But how do you know if your mechanic is reliable? How do you know if they charge you fairly and make lasting repairs? If you don’t have extensive car knowledge, it can be impossible to tell.

Here are some tips that will help you find a trustworthy mechanic.

Get Recommendations

Ask friends to recommend a mechanic that they trust. You can also research local mechanics on platforms like Angie’s List, Consumer Reports, and Cartalk.com. Check Better Business Bureau listings to ensure there aren’t many customer complaints.

Check Online Reviews

Online reviews will offer some insight into the type of service a mechanic offers. Don’t just check the overall rating. Read the reviews to ensure the mechanic will provide the service you require.

Find a Mechanic That Works on Your Type of Car

Mechanics that specialize in certain car brands will have the training and equipment to fix your car. It’s crucial to find a mechanic knowledgeable about your car brand if you have an imported, high-end, or vintage vehicle.

Check for Certification

A certified mechanic is likely to do a quality job on your vehicle. Mechanics must hold a certification from the Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). They should also have a license from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair. 

Try Them Out

Don’t wait until your car has issues to try out a new mechanic. Go to them for a smaller service like an oil change or tire rotation. A good mechanic will get the work done promptly. They will want to know more about your car. They will treat you with a high level of respect.

Ask Questions

There are several questions you may want to ask, such as:

• Is there a warranty for your repairs? How long is the warranty?
• Do you provide estimates ahead of time? Are they broken down for part and labor?
• How do you figure your labor rate?
• Are there any additional fees I should know about?

Look for Transparency

A trustworthy mechanic will show you the parts that need replacing. They will show you broken belts and frazzled spark plugs. Their transparency will prove that they are not ripping you off.

Stay Away from Mechanics That Say You Need Service When You Don’t

Avoid mechanics who diagnose serious problems when you bring your car in for an oil change or tell you they must keep it for prolonged periods. Likely, you don’t need such extensive service.

Beware of High-Cost Repairs

It’s difficult to find out exactly how much a repair should cost. But you can do some research to find out. If your mechanic charges you too much, you can ask another mechanic for a second opinion.

JD’s Offers Auto Service You Can Trust

JD offers auto restoration you can trust. We specialize in best-in-show winners and can work on cars of any year, make, or model. We offer competitive rates and terrific service.

Contact us for auto repairs you can trust.