How do I find good local mechanics?

How do I find good local mechanics?

How to find a great car mechanic

• Find a shop for your brand of car. Many garages specialize in certain makes.
• Ask your family and friends.
• Search the Internet.
• Check for certification.
• Check the Better Business Bureau.
• Give the shop a tryout.
• Ask about warranties.
• Make sure the shop is convenient.

Are local mechanics cheaper than dealerships?

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

Can you negotiate prices with mechanics?

Most people simply don't realize they can negotiate auto repair work. And while some itemized charges may stand firm (like some parts prices), others have significant wiggle-room (shop mark-ups are often as much as 200% to cover operations).19-Apr-2017

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

Does it matter where I get my car serviced?

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

Does my car have to be serviced by a main dealer?

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

How much do most auto shops charge for labor?

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

How much should it cost in labor to replace an engine?

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

How can I lower my mechanics bill?

5 Steps to Negotiate a Better Price for Car Repairs

• Understand the issue. There's a difference between feeling like the mechanic's estimate is too high, and knowing so.
• Leverage the facts.
• Get quotes from the competition.
• Offer to provide the parts yourself.
• Get car repair financing.
• Slash Your Insurance Costs.

How do you deal with an auto mechanic?

Five Dos And Don'ts When Dealing With An Auto Mechanic

• Communicate Properly.
• Set Realistic Expectations.
• Don't Drop Off a Dirty or Cluttered Vehicle.
• Make Yourself Available.
• 5, Leave the Technician Alone.

Can you negotiate at car shop?

No-Commission Salespeople Not only is there no negotiation, we do not pay our salespeople based on the profit made or the vehicle you choose. Schedule a visit — you'll feel the difference the moment you walk in the door.

When should I get a new mechanic?

5 Warning Signs You Need to Find a New Mechanic

• 1.) They pull the old bait and switch.
• 2.) They're unwilling to give you a written estimate.
• 3.) They give you no time to think about the repair.
• 4.) Your auto mechanic makes you pie in the sky promises.
• 5.)

How long can you go without servicing your car?

Most manufacturers recommend having a full car service once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. But this depends on your car and how you drive it. You can check your logbook to see when your car was last serviced.

How often should a low mileage car be serviced?

every six months

How often should you change oil in car?

5,000 to 7,500 miles

Why are dealerships so expensive?

“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 good local mechanics?