How to Find a Good Car Mechanic
Clark Howard's Tips

For years, Clark has been asked about how to find a knowledgeable, honest mechanic. He doesn't think he's ever had a good answer for people. But The Wall Street Journal recently sent a reporter out to determine the best way to do this. So, Clark wants to share what he does and what the Journal suggested you do.

First of all, he recommends that you find a mechanic before something goes wrong. You can be a sitting duck if you're in the midst of a problem and you don't know who to trust or where to go. Secondly, do not take recommendations from tow truck drivers. Most of these drivers make their money from referrals, so they have no idea if the mechanics they're recommending are any good.

Also, if your vehicle needs a major repair, you want a second opinion from somewhere else. The Journal says you need to use an ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified mechanic. In addition, ASE program has an even more in-depth certification called the "Blue Seal" program. If a shop has earned that seal, it means the people who work there have been certified in each major area of auto repair. The Automobile Association of America (AAA) also has a program for AAA-approved shops. The organization has a very strict dispute process and information from members who have been polled.

Most repair shops and dealerships specialize in only a few makes of cars, the best way to find a competent, honest shop for your car is by personal referral from someone you know who owns the same make of car that you do. Ask those people who they use for repairs.

Another much more difficult way is look in your local yellow pages or internet and then calling around for more information. Look for ads that state clearly the types or even makes of cars that the shop services. Make an appointment and go into the shop for a face to face visit. Ask questions about qualifications and certifications.

Once you have a good impression of a shop, take your car in for minor work first, and see how they treat you. Do they answer your questions completely ? Do they guarantee their work? Did they do the work you requested, and only that work. Were the repairs done within the estimate? It may take an while before you find a shop who satisfies all your requirements. Don't be afraid to use a independent shop. Many times they will do a better job than a large new car dealer. The value of one customer is greater to a small shop than to a large dealer.

Don't be afraid to ask questions about what is being done or recommended to be done. There are no stupid questions, only those so stupid as to not ask the question. You will have to pay the bill, so don't be shy about asking the "why" behind the need of a repair.

The best time to find a good mechanic is before your car needs one. Solicit mechanic recommendations from friends, family and local consumer organizations. Check with the Better Business Bureau to identify shops that have received numerous complaints. Once you narrow your list, ask the following seven questions:

1. Is the facility endorsed by the American Automobile Association? AAA has established strict criteria for technician certification and customer satisfaction.

2. Does the shop have certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence? This independent, nonprofit organization offers exams that stress real-world diagnostic and repair problems with brakes, electrical systems, engines, heating and air conditioning, and suspension and steering. Repair facilities with one or more ASE-certified technicians display a blue and white ASE sign and post their certified technicians' credentials in the customer service area. ASE-certified technicians must re-certify every five years to stay in the program.

3. Does your state track complaints and offer dealer's license verification through a Bureau of Automotive Repair? California does.

4. Is the facility clean, neat and well organized?

5. Is the staff courteous and willing to answer your questions?

6. Do you understand the shop's policies regarding labor rates, diagnostic fees, guarantees and acceptable forms of payment?

7. Will the shop give you a signed written estimate? The estimate should identify the repairs and parts needed. It also should include an anticipated labor charge and a statement that the shop will contact you for approval if other work needs to be done. If not, go elsewhere.

Don't see something you need to have done? Call (949) 830-4204. Auto Repair Service Mission, offers a wide range of solutions to the literally thousands of possible repairs and improvements for your vehicles.

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