How to Prevent Auto Repair Rip offs

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Find a trustworthy mechanic before you actually need one so that you won't be pressed into locating one in a hurry if your car suddenly breaks down.

   Ask friends and family for recommendations, then take your car to the shop for something simple such as an oil change.
2. 2

   Step 2: Trust your instinct.

   If you have a feeling or intuition that the mechanic is less than trustworthy, take your vehicle elsewhere.
   
   Take your car to a second mechanic for another opinion if the estimate sounds high, or if something just doesn't seems right.
   
   If your car isn't running, call a tow truck.
   
   You aren't obligated to stay with a mechanic just because he looked at your car and gave you an estimate. , Ask if there have been any complaints about the mechanic, and if so, how the problems were resolved. , The symbol should be not only on the sign, but on a certificate on the wall and usually on the mechanic's uniform.
   
   Shops approved by AAA (American Automobile Association) are also a good bet.
   
   AAA approval means that the work must be guaranteed for 6,000 miles (9,700 km) or six months. , Read your vehicle's manual and stay current with recommendations for oil changes and other maintenance schedules.
   
   Being familiar with your vehicle will help you prevent auto repair rip-offs. , For example, if you have a foreign car, be sure the mechanic has the experience and equipment to deal with your vehicle. , If you aren't sure, outline the problems very clearly and find out exactly how the mechanic plans to deal with each problem.
   
   Be specific and never give a mechanic free reign to do whatever your car needs without discussing it with you first. , Read estimate carefully and ask questions if something seems odd or isn't clear.
   
   Ask if the parts and work are guaranteed. , Check the bill carefully and ask for clarification on any discrepancies.
   
   Pay by credit card or check so that you have a record of payment and so you can stop payment if you think you've been ripped off.
3. 3

   Step 3: Prevent rip-offs by contacting the Better Business Bureau

4. 4

   Step 4: AAA (American Automobile Association) and the Consumer Affairs Office in your city or state.

5. 5

   Step 5: Look for shops with an ASE symbol on the sign

6. 6

   Step 6: which indicates the shop met the criteria for Automotive Service Excellence.

7. 7

   Step 7: Be familiar with your vehicle.

8. 8

   Step 8: Ask if the shop has experience dealing with your type of car.

9. 9

   Step 9: Make a checklist of what work your vehicle needs.

10. 10

    Step 10: Get an itemized written estimate in advance and be sure the mechanic contacts you before doing any work that exceeds the original estimate.

11. 11

    Step 11: Request a detailed invoice that includes costs of labor and parts.

Detailed Guide

About the Author