How to Choose the Best Car Repair Shop
Posted Monday, Feb 27, 2023
When you buy a car, it almost immediately becomes part of your family. That's why it's normal that you don't trust it to just anyone. However, remember that you should take it to regular check-ups and have any damage repaired, no matter how minor, to keep it in the best condition and extend its life. At Lux Auto Centre, we advise you to have a reliable and trustworthy auto repair shop. We will give you some tips to help you know what to look for when you are deciding which one to choose.
Ask for Recommendations
The best way to start your search for a car repair shop is to ask your friends and family for referrals and recommendations. Nothing speaks better about a business than a good reputation among its customers. Ask your family, friends, and neighbors what kind of car they have, where they take it when it needs repairs, how long they have been customers, and what kind of repairs they have done. This will give you an idea of what would be the best fit for you.
Find a Specialized Car Repair Shop
We recommend going to an auto repair shop specialized in your car's make if you need a very large or very complex repair. It’s better to invest a little more in a specialized service than to regret going to a place where they will not take proper care of your car.
Check Out Their Website And Reviews
Nowadays, nothing escapes the internet. So be sure to check out the website of the car repair shop. Pay special attention to people's reviews and comments. Don't rely solely on one person's opinion. Read both positive and negative reviews carefully.
Try to identify if there are any patterns in their service. Are most of the negative comments complaining about the same problem? Do all the positive comments talk about their good experience with the staff? Do the comments improve over time?
This will give you a more complete idea of their quality of service and will prevent you from having an unpleasant surprise.
Ask for Certifications
Contact the repair shop to inquire about licenses, certifications, and insurance.
The best way to check if the technicians have the proper training to perform their work is to ask if they are certified. The most widely recognized certifications are from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Technicians must pass different tests to obtain them and they must be renewed every five years. This is a good indication that they are experienced and qualified to give you good service.
Keep in mind that automotive technology has advanced dramatically in recent years, which means that mechanics must be up to date with new models, tools, and equipment.
License and insurance will give you more peace of mind because they guarantee that you are protected in case there is a problem in the repair process.
Find Out About Their Experience
A very important detail to take into account is the experience of the repair shop. Find out how many years they have been in business, what kind of cars they have worked with, the level of complexity of the repairs they have done, and what warranty they offer.
Compare Prices
Car repairs can be very expensive, so we advise you to get several quotes before deciding on an auto repair shop. Although the price is not necessarily a reflection of the quality of the service, it is not advisable to choose the shop that offers the lowest price.
There are several factors that can determine the cost of the repair: the broken parts, the tools needed for the repair, specialized equipment, the level of expertise of the technician, and the prestige of the auto repair shop.
Compare prices and choose the one that best suits your needs and your budget.
Visit the Repair Shop
Visit the car repair shops in person before making a final decision on where to take your vehicle. See what kind of equipment they have, what certifications they display on their walls, the work dynamics of the technicians, and how the staff treats customers. Don't be afraid to ask any questions you consider necessary. A good manager will be willing to answer all your doubts.
Start Small
Once you have chosen a repair shop and are ready to take your car in, we recommend that you start with a simple, routine repair, such as an oil change. It's best to be cautious and see the results for yourself.
If you have a good first experience, you will feel more at ease to take your car in for major repairs.
Caring for your car is key to its good performance and long life. Plus, it’s best to promptly address any repairs and maintenance that may be necessary for your driving safety.
At Lux Auto Centre, we care about your long-term positive experience. That's why we offer different advice throughout your journey as a car owner. Contact us to answer any questions you may have and find the perfect car to accompany you on every adventure.
