Finding an auto repair shop that meets all your automotive needs can take up time and money. It’s common to bounce from shop to shop searching for a facility that you can trust. That’s why it is important to ask these questions when actively searching for a mechanic:

• What cars do you service and repair?

This can easily be overlooked. You should make sure that you are going to a shop with experience in the make and model you may ever need to bring in. Some specialize in only foreign or domestic models, so it is important to ask.

• Are your auto technicians trained to work on my make of car?

Every car is different. Knowing that the technicians have knowledge of your car make will allow you trust that they know how to fix your car’s problem.

• Are your technicians ASE certified?

This allows you to know the level of expertise the technicians working on your car have and if they have the proper training to do so.

• How long have you been in business?

Other than certification to prove the technicians are knowledgeable in their field, experience will give you a better idea of who you’re trusting with your vehicle. You want someone who has many years of experience under their belt because they are very likely to have perfected their skills over time.

• Do you have a list of what you check on the services you perform?

Every shop should have a checklist of inspection points they cover when a vehicle is brought in. Ask to see this inspection checklist to make sure everything you need is provided.

• What is your warranty? 

Make sure that the work performed on your vehicle is guaranteed in case something goes wrong. Warranties are typically provided for a specific period of time or mileage, whichever comes first. Ask for a detailed explanation of what the warranty covers to avoid surprises.

• Do you keep records of the repairs and service performed on my car?

Good shops will keep a record of all the services done on your vehicle to make the best recommendations for future visits. This will help keep track of your vehicle’s health overall and throughout time.

• Is there a place to check past customer’s experience at your shop for reference?

Community recognition can reassure the quality of service you will be getting. Most businesses have a Yelp page or online platform where you can check other’s experiences.

• Will I get a free detailed estimate?

Before making any decisions, you want to be sure that the mechanic can explain what needs to be repaired and why. This will also let you know how much you will be paying exactly.

• Do I need an appointment, and can I wait for the service to be performed?

Finding out if an appointment is necessary will save you trips. This also allows you to find out if the shop has a waiting area where you can comfortably wait for your services to be made.

Although the questions may seem like a lot, any experienced and patient mechanic will be more than happy to answer them in order to ensure your happiness and trust.