Welcome to my blog. My name is Ken. One day, I was driving home from work when the engine in my car failed. While I waited for the recovery truck to arrive, I realised I didn’t have a clue what went on underneath the bonnet of my car. I signed up for an auto service course at my local community college, so I could gain the skills I needed to properly maintain my car and repair it if something when wrong while I was on the road. I wanted to start a blog to pass on these skills to other people so that they can look after their automobiles.
When looking for a new mechanic, it is advisable to start with car servicing rather than repairs. The reason is that servicing car parts is a safer way of finding out whether a mechanic understands their craft. Taking your time to find the right mechanic is crucial for cost reasons and your car's overall performance. However, you need to ask the right questions to find the right mechanic. This article highlights essential questions to ask a mechanic before hiring their services.
What Is Their Pricing Model?
Asking if a mechanic charges for every type of service they offer is perhaps the most commonly ignored question. Most car owners assume that mechanics charge standard rates for various repairs. However, nothing could be further from the truth because mechanics must differentiate their services to remain competitive. For instance, a mechanic might offer basic services, such as oil checks and tyre pressure checks, free of charge. However, another mechanic down the corner might charge a fee for such services. Therefore, asking a mechanic for a breakdown of free services and those that attract a fee is essential. As a result, you get a good idea of how much you will spend on servicing your vehicle.
Do They Understand Your Car?
The parts and systems of modern cars are complex, and only trained technicians should work on them. Therefore, most mechanics specialise in specific car types, makes, and models. Most importantly, it helps them carve a niche in the market. For instance, some mechanics specialise in classic cars, while others only work on electric vehicles. Similarly, some auto technicians only service local brands, while others focus on overseas cars. Therefore, before letting a mechanic work on your car, ask them if they have worked on a similar make and model before. The answer you get determines whether to settle on a mechanic or continue your search.
What Is Their Turnaround Time?
Car services can test your patience; therefore. It is advisable to know how long, on average, a mechanic takes to complete working on car repairs. Typically, it depends on the type of service in question. For instance, services such as oil and coolant level checks, tyre pressure checks, and filter inspections take a relatively short time. However, services like oil flushes, cabin air-filter change and steering and suspension checks need time. Professional mechanics have the information in print form and are always willing to share it with customers. It is better to go to a mechanic knowing how long a service will take.
Share20 September 2021
