Auto Repair: Cutting Costs

Getting the most value out of each and every dollar and cent is a challenge everyone seems to be embracing these days. Rather than opting to recalculate the monthly budget in search of wiggle room to include a car payment, more drivers are doing all they can to ensure their vehicle remain in proper operating form for as long as possible. But when a squeak or odd shimmy becomes obvious, or the dreaded hazard light pops on, auto repair may be in the near future.

When funds are tight and auto repair is unavoidable, the hope is the automobile is still under some sort of warranty, whether that be the original warranty or an extended warranty, and that part or all of the necessary repairs will be covered by the policy. Maybe the dealership will provide a loaner vehicle while the work is done? But, if the time covered by a warranty has elapsed, then shopping for a reliable mechanic or service station is inevitable.

Friends, family, neighbors and co-workers may all have a preferred auto repair franchise they will recommend as dependable, and the Internet, telephone book and weekly mailers will have lists of service locations that are eager to provide service to new clients. Many of these businesses will print a coupon or discount offer alongside their advertisement as an incentive to visit the establishment.

With numerous national franchise service providers available in most mid-size or larger cities, as well as local independently owned and operated businesses clamoring to garner new customers, the options for auto repair can become overwhelming when attempting to select the right one. Competitive pricing may become a factor that will influence a customer's decision regarding a service provider, in addition to the type of warranty, guarantee or discount offered by the facility.

The costs for each service, labor, parts and disposal fee should be displayed in an area that is easy for the clientele to see, and all guarantees, warranties and discounts offered by the business or parts manufacturers should be in writing, as well. Prior to any work being done, a thorough inspection of the vehicle should be performed and an estimate written up. A technician should allow the time to go over the estimate with the customer, explaining what needs to be done now and what may need to be done soon, as well as the costs involved in the repair work, how long it will take to be completed and whether transportation is provided: pickup and delivery or loaner car.

The facility should be clean, inviting and the staff pleasant to their clients. The technicians should be licensed and certified to work on all makes and models of vehicles, including flex fuel and electric cars. Certificates should be on display that state the technicians have completed the most recent training courses, ensuring they are familiar with all recent updates, changes, recalls and advances made to the current year's make and model vehicles.