So you're looking for a cheap way to repair your car so that you won't end up breaking your budget. What are you to do?
You can look for referrals, for one thing. There are also online reviews of the repair shops in the area nearest you for another thing. There are also plenty of vulcanizing, spare parts, and radiator repair shops in the area that you can ask quotes from as well.
With that said, what should you specifically look for in a repair facility? What questions should you ask the owner?
The second question is at least easily answerable. Just ask them about their equipment, the training of their mechanics, and their warranties available.
Hallmarks of Repair Shop Excellence
Here are several things you should expect as a motorist client from a repair shop you've chosen.
Detailed Explanations: Your mechanic should not be shady when it comes to explaining why they're charging you for this and that. He should be capable of explaining the services and repairs required to make your vehicle work properly.
Ditto when it comes to doing tune-ups or a simple inspection to see if there's something wrong with your car. He should also describe in full all the tests and diagnostic procedures performed and their results to you.
Estimates and Quotes: It's standard operating procedure to get a disclosed estimate or quote on all the tests done on your car as well as all the subsequent repairs afterwards.
You have the right to know how much everything is going to cost even if it's just an estimate. You should be able to get the estimate in writing if you were to request for them. The costs should cover the cost of the replacement part and the cost of labor.
Interest in Warranties: The repair shop should be interested in maintaining any factory warranties applicable to your vehicle. He should provide you info in paper on proper maintenance service costs and warranties so that you know the guarantees for the replacement parts he has installed into your car. Alas, many of the warranties are only for a month or a week. The major parts can go upwards to six months to a year in warranty.
Make the Most Out of Your Repair Investment
Don't base your decision for a repair facility based solely on how cheap they are. Even though that's an important factor in your decision-making, you should also invest in a shop that offers quality goods and services that will improve upon the longevity of your vehicle rather than detract on it.
In terms of workmanship and quality of parts, you should have a keen eye on which shops are worthwhile by online reviews, personal experience, trial and error, and referrals by friends and family.