What’s the one thing worse than going to the dentist? Probably anything to do with your car! Everyone knows that going to purchase a new car, you’re going to get ripped off. Likewise, every time you must take your car to a mechanic, you wait with gritted teeth for the bill. Why is it that everything to do with cars feels like such a gamble? Probably because it is to a slight degree – many folks really don’t know when it’s the exact time to trade it in for a newer model, whether you can get another 1000 miles out of those tires, or if that noise is just an annoyance or if it’s really getting ready to conk out on you. Over and over we hear stories of unscrupulous car salesmen and mechanics who tell you that your car simply won’t make it around the next corner – you have to buy a new car or replacement part TODAY. Unless you are in the know about cars, it’s enough to make anyone feel a little vulnerable. That’s why we think it’s so important to find a auto repair shop you can trust BEFORE anything goes wrong with your car.

So, where do you start? First, ask your co-workers, friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. You’ll get a varied list of business names, probably some that they like, and some that you should stay away from. Then, take that list and visit the Better Business Bureau’s website. Find the ones that are BBB Accredited and have the highest rating. Take into consideration any complaints that others have filed – could these same things happen to you? Once you’ve narrowed your search a bit, pick up the phone.

Call the mechanic you are considering using. Are they friendly and helpful? Do they offer complete explanations of their services, or are you left feeling like you needed to know the secret magic words to get the answer you were looking for? Do they work on your specific type of car? Are they ASE certified? What other affiliations to they have that lead you to believe they are knowledgeable and trustworthy?

Finally, when you select a garage, don’t be afraid to demand thorough explanations of what work they will be doing. Ask, ask, ask. The more you know about your car and your mechanic, the less likely you are to unnecessarily part with your money. When the time comes for a car repair, demand a written estimate for parts and labor. According to Arizona law, once you receive an estimate, the facility may not charge you more than 10% above the estimated costs without your prior approval.

Of course, it takes a little homework on your part, but it’s worth it knowing that when you pick up your car, it will be properly repaired and there will be no surprises. That’s why we don’t just have customers at our garage – we have friends. We like talking to you about your car. We like answering your questions. We like having you stop by just for a visit. We want to be your friend in the auto repair business!