When researching mechanics in your area, there are seven key factors to consider to ensure that you are dealing with a reputable shop. Some of the most basic concerns may seem obvious, while others are less likely to have been noticed without a trained eye. Looking for these telltale signs now, before the job is done, will help ensure you get the quality product and service that your money deserves. These are the seven signs that you are dealing with a reputable company.
1) How long has the company been in business?
If it’s a new business, that could lead to problems. Many new auto shops fail in the first few years, which could subsequently cause you to air dry. If they haven’t been in your area for at least a few years, it is unknown if they will be there a month after your mechanical work ends and if you have questions. Better to play it safe than sorry in this case and choose a store that has been in your area for a while.
2) Staff experience?
Nobody wants to trust their car to someone who hardly knows what to do. Most mechanics have a national certification and will tell you what year they got it. Be wary of any mechanic who has recently earned their certification. Make sure to run away from any mechanic who avoids this question entirely.
3) Customer service level?
If the mechanic is rude to you on the phone or shows you an attitude during a quote, you probably don’t want to do business with him. Think about it, if they are so rude to you before they have your money, imagine how they will act after they already have it. It sounds like common sense, but many people don’t let this influence their choice of mechanics enough.
4) Used materials
Many mechanics try to reduce the cost of materials. This leads to a lower bottom line, all at your expense. Trust a mechanic who takes pride in his tools.
5) Price
Sounds simple, right? Just choose the mechanic that is the cheapest. INCORRECT! If a mechanic offers you a price well below the industry average, there is probably something wrong. A reputable mechanic will quote you on what he thinks is a good price. If you feel like that’s a good price, you obviously don’t feel your time is worth much (probably because you offer an inferior product). Do not trust the mechanics that lowers you.
6) Deliver time
Many of the best mechanics will have at least a few days of work ahead of theirs. If a mechanic tells you that he can do important work that day, it may be because he has no other job (probably due to a bad reputation). Be especially careful with this one when paired with an extremely low price, these two combined almost always cause a headache.
7) Finished project
Generally, this alone is the biggest factor, but since you can’t see it until it’s done, your next best option is to ask for photos of some of your previous clients’ cars. If they can’t provide at least some images, there is probably something wrong.