ALT-8 Is there such a Thing as a Trustworthy Mechanic
As with dentists, most people hate to have to take their vehicle in for repair. Let's face it; most of us do as little as possible for our cars, so they break down. The dread we feel when something goes afoul with our ride is a particular sort of sinking feeling; trouble is coming because now we have to take it in to a shop. Our society is literally filled with tales of woe from disgruntled customers who are more than willing to go off about the mechanic that did them wrong. But, is there a truly reliable mechanic out there for us?
Believe it or not, practically all automotive techs (they aren't mechanics any longer) today are honest, dependable and as reliable as boy scouts; how they communicate the things they know into something we vehicle owners can actually understand is something else altogether. We've all had, or at least know someone who has had a bad experience with vehicle repair. But, if we honestly look behind the stories, we'll see exactly how to avoid having a bad experience the next time we've neglected our vehicles a little too long.
Easy rule number one: Ask questions and get all the information from the people at the shop before you say yes. Remember, they can't do work unless you authorize it.
Easy rule number two: Ask for the technician's credentials. Just like a doctor or dentist or even a lawyer, these professionals have to have constant training. They have to invest their own money into thousands of dollars worth of tools and equipment. Most have attended a college, or some other professional training that keeps them up to date with today's automotive technology. ASE certifications are a good sign that your shop has qualified people. Some companies, Firestone MasterCare and Just Brakes to name two, have specialized testing and training that far exceeds most training. And, keep in mind, that unlike a doctor or dentist, the models they are working on keep changing every year!
Easy rule number three: Trust your instincts. If you feel good when talking with the service writer or technician, then you are most likely going to be happy with the results. After all, you can search till the end of time, but your vehicle still needs fixing and it won't happen until you've decided on a shop.
Easy rule number four: Relax. When you are tense and untrusting, so is the person you are trying to get to fix your vehicle. They are human too, so try to understand that the person with the wrenches may not be the best in the world at talking, but he/she might just be the best tech around!
