If you are taking your car to the mechanic, chances are something needs fixing, replacing, or tuning up. You may worry that the mechanic won’t be able to diagnose the problem, or that it may cost a lot to fix, or that they will try to sell you services that you don’t need. For all these reasons, people may avoid taking their car in until the day that it won’t start.
In reality, mechanics are specialists in their field. They are experts in car maintenance and repairs, which is why we come to them with our problems. Developing a good relationship with a talented mechanic can make trips to the shop more enjoyable and more productive for all involved.
Like specialists in any field, mechanics come with varying personalities, expertise, and operational styles. Look for a mechanic that matches your needs. If you own an international car that requires specialty parts, you will want to find a shop whose technicians are trained in repairing that make of car. Do not shy away from asking a mechanic what qualifications they have.
Years ago, finding the right mechanic involved asking five of your closest friends who they have used and what their experience was. Review sites have made this legwork easier. A quick search online can help point you in the direction of some of the top car repair shops in your local area. Once you have narrowed your search, check out the businesses themselves. Do you feel comfortable taking your car there? It is clean? Are employees welcoming? Answering these questions may help you make a decision, but ultimately, your choice of mechanics will come down to your personal experience with the service staff when you take your car in. Were they able to diagnose and resolve your issue in a professional manner?
Keep in mind that the lowest price on repairs is not always indicative of the best place to take your vehicle. Car repair shops are places of business. When a mechanic performs a repair, there are fixed costs, such as the cost of replacement parts, and variable costs, such as labor charges. Running a profitable business requires them to balance the cost of parts and employee pay against the need to keep prices down for customers. If you go with the rock bottom bid every time, you may get the least experienced person and the lowest quality parts. It is vital to keep the big picture in mind.
If you own a car, you know that repairs, and even routine care, can be pricey. A quick oil change costs a lot more once you add on the recommended maintenance items. However, just because a mechanic recommends additional services doesn’t mean you don’t need them. Cars are pieces of complex machinery that require regular oil changes, tire rotations, and transmission flushes. Recommending that you do these items on time is a sign that they are looking out for you and your vehicle. Putting off services for too long can lead to excess wear and premature part failure.
It is critical to develop a relationship of mutual trust and respect with your mechanic. When you can trust them to be open and honest with you and perform quality repairs, you will be happier with your service. Building this trust is a two-way street. When you find a mechanic that you like, stay loyal to them. Bring them your repeat business. They will get to know you and your vehicle. With a service history for your car, they may be able to diagnose and repair problems more quickly. They may even be willing to bend over backward to help you as a loyal customer, squeezing you in on a hectic day or throwing in a small service for free.
The biggest compliment that you can give your mechanic, though, is to refer friends and family to them. Tell your friends to mention your name when they take their car in for service. These referrals send a clear message that you trust your mechanic enough to attach your name to their shop. This positive reinforcement for a job well done leads to high-quality service for you and increased business for your mechanic. It is a win-win.
A trip to your local Utah auto repair shop does not have to feel like a battle. Building a rapport of trust and friendship with your mechanic will put your mind at ease and allow your mechanic to do his or her job of keeping your vehicle running safely. An auto mechanic that is familiar with you and your vehicle is like a doctor with a full health history. Your mechanic will know what work has already been done and what to look for when diagnosing problems. The care you will get will be faster, more accurate, and possibly even cheaper by avoiding unnecessary repairs trying to track down a phantom noise.
Need help today? Burt Brothers Tire & Service is one of the few AAA-certified repair companies in Utah. We’re big enough to offer cutting-edge services and prices that rival national chains but small enough that we haven’t lost our hometown feel. At our 19 auto repair shops from Northern Utah to St. George, you’ll find ASE-certified technicians (Automotive Service Excellence) who can be long-term partners in car care with your best interest in mind.
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