* Contact local consumers groups, such as the Chamber of Commerce or the Better Business Bureau, to check on a shop’s reliability.
* Look for repair facilities that employ technicians who are licensed by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The ASE signage should be prominently displayed.
* Confirm that the facility has up-to-date equipment and specialized tools to make the type of repair you need.
* Check to see if your repair is under warranty. If so, make sure the shop honors it and that it is authorized to make the repair under the warranty.
* Look for neat, well-organized service floors. Also, look for clearly posted signs on labor rates, guarantees and methods of payment.
* For convenience, ask if the service center provides a pickup and drop-off service so you can spend the day at home or at the office instead of in the waiting room.
Farmers also recommends vehicle owners look for a mechanic or shop owner who they feel comfortable talking with, and bringing a list of things you’ve noticed about your vehicle to make sure you’ve addressed all issues.
“As the vehicle owner, you should feel comfortable discussing any aspect of the service, whether it’s explaining the noise your vehicle makes or understanding the repair your mechanic plans to perform,” says Beyer. “Being able to easily communicate with your mechanic is the first step toward earning that trust,” added Beyer. For more information about Farmers Insurance, visit their Web site at www.farmers.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
