Finding a good mechanic can be a pain in the neck, and there are a number of things you should keep in mind when you’re shopping around. While some mechanics will charge you for parts and labor, others will not. Some of these shops are only capable of working on certain car brands, which makes finding a trustworthy mechanic that much harder. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t find one that does work on any car brand.
While there are some benefits to choosing a small shop, there are many downsides to going to a big chain. Even small shops can save you money. Often, small shops can source OEM parts at a lower price. Since these shops rely on word-of-mouth, you can trust them more. Besides, larger retail auto places have big advertising budgets and footprints, and they can afford to lose a few customers. Smaller mechanics have more incentive to provide quality work and treat their customers fairly.
When choosing an independent auto repair shop, remember to check reviews and ratings. While personal recommendations are always preferred, you should also check online reviews and forums for recommendations. A good place to start is with a friend. You may know someone who has a good auto shop and can recommend it to them. Alternatively, you can use search lists and forums to find an auto repair shop in your local area.
