Resources for Finding Reputable Mechanics
Finding a reputable mechanic is not brain science nor is it a major problem. As being a mechanic for thirty years I run my shop as a fair honest shop I have the smallest ad in the phone book (keeps my overhead down) The way most people find me is by asking their neighbor or a clerk in the store or several stores. As far a certificates go you can get one by completing a simple test for say air conditioning but that does not make you capable to rebuild a engine. As far a AAA shops go you apply for it you can get the ok to add their sign to your building that does not make you reputable or qualified . Or a Napa service center you answer questions from a book at home if you pass you get to hang their sign outside you shop that does not make everyone reputable or qualified. I see shops replacing all the rotors the lines the caliper for a simple brake job if it does not need it is like replacing a perfectly good heart with a pace maker because you have high blood pressure. Simple rules should be followed but in the days of parts being of spectacular materials. Several things you should ask does the mechanics get a commission what they sell if so you probably should question why the parts need to be replaced and see those parts most of the time you can take your old parts with you save the expense of environmental waste fees plus you can recycle yourself to make sure it gets done. If the answer is the insurance says we have to do it this way then your in the wrong shop insurance and I have buying it for thirty years does not dictate what your shop does. And lastly A real shop will hook up your car to diagnostics for free to tell you what the problem might be then clear the code and drive it to see if it reappears while you wait if they charge you then tell you it will be a series of test to find the problem your in the wrong shop there is lots of reasons for the check engine light to go on sometimes just as simple as the gas tank cap is not on tight no reason to charge you for that information. And lastly is the man that you talk to really doing all he can to help or are you just a number the one that takes your problem serious is the one shop you want.
