Choosing a mechanic can be challenging, especially if you need something fixed quickly and don’t have time to research your options properly. If you can, your best option is to have a name in mind well in advance, but even if you’re in a hurry, you can still find a quality mechanic that won’t cost you a fortune.
Start by asking around. Friends, coworkers and family members might be able to recommend a good mechanic for an affordable price. If not, search online. Rather than looking at websites set up by the mechanics’ themselves, look for local forums where people are talking and you can get honest reviews and opinions.
If you bought your car at a dealership, they often have their own service. While it might not be the cheapest, they will be familiar with your car’s model and maker and thus less likely to make mistakes or provide repairs that are not needed or are done half-heartily. Repair shops at car dealerships aren’t cheap, so they might not be a good choice if your car is old and has little Blue Book value.
Finally, always walk into a shop with a list of questions. Ask about the mechanic’s experience, how long he’s had the shop and what kind of cars, if any, he specializes on. Ask for an estimate and insist on a range (something between $800 and $1,300, for example), so you know what to expect. Don’t be afraid to question repairs if you think you’ve being offered more than you need.