Industry Tips
Auto Repair
Concerns about auto repair fall into two general categories: finding a qualified, knowledgeable mechanic, and paying only for the repairs you authorize.
To find a competent mechanic, get references: from friends, from franchise dealerships, from auto clubs, and from BBB reliability reports. Throughout the U.S. and Canada, BBB reliability reports can be especially helpful when you are away from home. Use the local yellow pages along with the local BBB to get membership and reliability reports. You can also get a reference from the National Institute for Automotive Excellence, also known as A.S.E. Their web site address is www.asecert.org.
It is important to know that you are not financially liable for any repairs that you do not authorize. Be as explicit as possible about the repairs you seek. There may, however, be costs associated with the diagnosis of the problem. If repairs are costly, consider getting a second opinion before authorizing work. In Ohio, oral or written authorization is needed for any additional repair that exceeds $25. Repairs should not exceed an estimate by more than 10 percent. For that reason, be sure to carefully read any work order that you sign - especially the fine print.
Ask about and make sure you understand any warranties associated with the repairs. If you are out of town, ask if a repair shop in your hometown will honor that warranty. Specify if you want replaced parts returned to you. Note that in some cases parts may be kept for recycling and rebuilding. This may reduce your final cost.
If you are dissatisfied with auto service for any reason and cannot obtain satisfaction from the repair shop, don't hesitate to file a complaint with your BBB. For more information, ask for a free BBB brochure entitled "Car Repair."
