How do I find a good local mechanic?
How to find a great car mechanic
LOCATION. Facilities usually are smaller and have less overhead than dealerships. This can mean significantly lower prices for customers. It takes more work to find the right auto shop, because there can be a couple of dozen corner garages in the same town.12-Aug-2016
How much do mechanics charge per hour?
Average hourly rate is $80 to $100 an hour. The going average hourly rate for a mechanic ranges from $80 to $100 an hour. After analyzing a bill that could also include expensive parts, many auto repair shop customers are left scratching their heads and wondering if they are being ripped off.08-Dec-2015
Generally speaking, it is almost always less expensive to repair a car than buy a new one. Even something as severe as an engine or transmission rebuild will cost you roughly $1,200 to $5,000 — far less than buying a new car.30-Mar-2022
How do you know if a mechanic is trustworthy?
Find an ASE-Certified Mechanic As with other professions, you may feel some peace of mind when you know you're dealing with someone who has a professional certification in their field. The independent nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) tests and certifies automotive professionals.20-Sept-2017
They may not insist on using a car dealership, but you do need to have it serviced at a reputable garage. If you have a high-end or expensive car that is not mass produced, it is probably wise to use the car dealership for servicing as independent garages may not have staff with expertise in that make of car.
Is it better to go to a local mechanic or dealership?
Independent Mechanics. Dealerships are typically the safest choice when it comes to maintaining or repairing your car. For most brands, you'll get service from a factory-trained technician who knows their way around the make and model of your vehicle.12-Mar-2020
It's important to mention that you don't have to use a main dealership to service your car. But doing so ensures the correct parts are used and the right jobs are carried out at the right time.
Can I take my car to any dealer for service?
“You can service your car at independent service providers without voiding your warranty. Vehicles within the warranty service are locked in to use the dealership but they can now go to independent providers.”14-Dec-2020
The average labor rate per hour is between $75 and $130. You can expect the dealership rate to be higher than at an independent repair shop.03-Jul-2022
Why is mechanic labor so expensive?
Labor Costs Diagnostic Labor – This requires significantly more training than a repair laborer, as well as different tools, both of which require training and exact a significant expense. Repair Labor – This requires a significant amount of training and experience, which master technicians take many years to accrue.23-Mar-2019
The shop rate can vary greatly, from as little as $90 per hour to over $150 per hour. So using a low-end shop rate of $110 and a high of $150, the labor on a typical engine replacement can run anywhere from $1,100 to $1,800.10-Sept-2019
When should you stop putting money in a car?
Most experts suggest following the 50% rule. This means that you should do any repairs that cost 50% or less of the value of the vehicle. If costs are higher than this, you may want to start looking for a new or used car.
200,000 miles
Why you should keep driving your old car?
Keeping your old car makes sense if: You're on a Tight Budget. You'll almost always save money by hanging on to your old car for as long as possible. Even if a new car costs less to repair and fill up, those savings are dwarfed by the upfront cost, monthly payments, and higher insurance.01-Dec-2021
The garage's general level of activity and workload will also affect how long the more exhaustive repairs take. Also, keep in mind that repairs will naturally take longer if your car is a special or vintage make, as the parts may need to be ordered.
How often should you change oil in car?
5,000 to 7,500 miles
every six months
How often should my car be serviced?
A general rule of thumb is that you should get your car serviced every 10,000 km or 6 months - whichever one comes first. A major service - or a more extensive look over your vehicle - is required every 30,000 to 45,000km or every 24 months.07-Oct-2021
“The reason that car dealerships are typically more expensive than independently owned shops can be summed up in one word: overhead. While small, local shops just have a garage and a few mechanics, dealerships have showrooms, massive maintenance garages, higher employee salaries. All this equates to more overhead.
What is a service on your car?
A car service is a health check with routine maintenance for your vehicle which assesses everything from your engine's fluid levels to the general wear and tear of your car.02-Mar-2021
How do I find a good local mechanic?