Industry Tips
Auto mechanics and shops -- selecting
HERE ARE SOME GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW WHEN CHOOSING AN AUTO REPAIR SHOP:
*Get referrals from friends.
*Check the condition of the shop. It should be clean, relatively orderly and should have a friendly atmosphere.
*Look for the certificates on display, including:
*New York State registration, which certifies that the shop has the resource and the personnel to perform the services it says it can.
*National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) This is a national organization that requires mechanics to pass a stiff exam and be recertified regularly.
*AAA: However, not all qualified repair shops seek this designation.
*Manufacturers: Using a mechanic who has been specifically trained by the manufacturer of your vehicle
*Check out the company's track record by calling the Department of Motor Vehicles to check licensing and see if there have been complaints against the firm. Call (518) 474-8943.
LOOK FOR THESE SIGNS OF A QUALITY OPERATION:
*Reception personnel who appear to know what they're doing and management staff who take the time to answer your questions fully and courteously.
*Posted statement regarding rates, whether they're computed hourly or by the job.
*Presence of up-to-date diagnostic, repair and office equipment that would facilitate every step in the process.
*Warranties on parts and labor for at least three months or 4,000 miles, unless you don't realistically expect your old clunker to last that long.
This information is general in nature and is not to be interpreted as a Business Review on any particular product, company or service.