If your car keeps breaking down, you should see a local mechanic. This guide will help you find the right person for the job.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 700,000 automotive technicians and mechanics across the country. That sounds like a lot, which begs the question, why is it so hard to find a go-to local mechanic?
Like good dentists and plumbers, a reliable, trustworthy local mechanic is worth their weight in gold. They can keep your pride and joy on the road without you having to take out a second mortgage. But if you’re having car problems, how can you find the right one?
Let’s dig into a few signs you’re onto a winner and some red flags you always want to pay attention to.
Finding a Great Local Mechanic
It might feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack, but it’s a bit more scientific than that. Follow these pointers, and you’ll connect with a trustworthy local mechanic in no time. Just expect them to be busy – the best ones nearly always are!
Recommendations
We may live in the age of social media, but did you know that 88% of people trust recommendations from friends over the press? This is an excellent way of finding a reliable local mechanic. Almost everyone you know will have a vehicle and need to take it somewhere for car repairs.
You can still use the power of social media to harvest these recommendations, though. Put a message on your WhatsApp or Facebook status, or post something on Instagram. It’ll reach your local friends and family in seconds, and the recommendations – and warnings – are sure to start flooding in!
Check Out Online Reviews
Online reviews are another great source of recommendations. Look for highly-rated repair shops and read the comments. You’ll probably see a few negative reviews, but how the mechanic follows up can tell you how much they value their customers.
Do They Provide Free Estimates?
Going into a repair shop can be intimidating if you’re not used to that environment. Take the pressure off yourself by choosing shops that offer free estimates. You can take your car to several shops and then select based on a written breakdown of what’s involved.
This will also prove useful later if any dispute arises about the cost of the repair. Be very wary of mechanics that refuse to provide free estimates.
What’s the Vibe?
We don’t expect repair shops to be spotless, but they should be presentable and orderly. First, someone should greet you and take down your details. Then you should get a chance to talk to a mechanic before getting your estimate.
Make sure you know how you will pay before signing the service agreement. The best local mechanic will offer a few payment options, but you’ll be expected to pay before you collect your vehicle. But if they don’t even provide you with a service agreement, that’s a warning sign that they are not a reputable operation.
Excellent Communication
You can learn a lot about a mechanic from the way they discuss your car repairs with you. Are they knowledgeable and passionate? Do they take into account the age and condition of your car?
The best mechanics are not afraid to spend time talking you through the repair and will treat you respectfully. If they make you feel uncomfortable, keep looking until you find one you get on with.
Possible Red Flags
A great local mechanic has got your back. They understand that if they’re honest and upfront, you’ll come back even if they tell you what you don’t want to hear. On the other hand, there are mechanics out there who are just looking to secure the job, whether it’s the right thing for you or not.
Is the Repair Worth It?
There comes a point when every car owner has to ask whether fixing a car is worth it. Sure, you’ve made many great memories in it, but eventually, almost every vehicle will become a money pit. A great local mechanic dares to tell you when that time has come.
But an unscrupulous mechanic will not. Here are some questions you, and they, should be considering:
- Is the cost of the car repairs worth it compared with the after-repair value?
- Is the mileage already high?
- Is the car over ten years old?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, the right local mechanic will advise junking a car over repairing it.
Who Buys Junk Cars?
If the thought of selling your car to a junk car buyer brings a tear to your eye, rest assured that it’s a painless process. But don’t just Google ‘junky my car’ and choose the first site on the list. You need to put as much thought into choosing a cash for my car service as you would into choosing a mechanic.
The best junk car buyer out there will:
- Take all kinds of cars, including trucks and SUVs
- Give you a free quote in seconds
- Accept your vehicle, no matter the condition
- Have years of experience and lots of satisfied customers
- No hidden charges
Some cash-for-car companies may sting you with hidden extras, such as towing charges. But the most reputable companies provide towing free of charge. They’ll collect your vehicle and pay you on the spot.
Time to Call Junk a Car?
If you and your local mechanic agree that the cost of repairs just isn’t worth it, you need to find a junk car buyer you can trust. Look no further than Junk a Car.
We provide outstanding, personalized service. We prioritize customer satisfaction and will take all types of cars, including:
- Damaged
- Non-runners
- Wrecked
- Flooded
- And perfect cars!
We promise there’ll be no hidden fees, no paperwork, and no inspection. Call us today at 888-880-8506 to speak to a live agent or get a free quote online.