Hi there, my name is Nellie. Welcome to my site. I am excited to share my knowledge about automotive service on this site. I would like to help everyone learn about how to keep their cars and trucks in excellent condition over the years. My site will cover all of the different maintenance and repair tasks required by vintage and modern vehicles. I will talk about the tools and safety equipment you must use for each task. I hope you can use the information on my site to keep your vehicle well-maintained and running great. Thank you for your visit.
Nobody likes to shell out their hard-earned money for car repairs, but no matter how well you care for your vehicle, there's a good chance you'll need a mechanic's help in repairing or replacing a bad part at some point. Before you decide to have a recommended car repair done, however, there are a few questions worth asking your mechanic.
How Dire is the Repair?
If money is tight and the expense has come at a difficult time, ask your mechanic how dire the need for the repair is. Your mechanic may tell you that the repair is something that should be made in the next few thousand miles (which would buy you some time). However, if the repair is dire, try to get it done as soon as possible so as not to damage other parts (or end up broken down on the side of the road).
Could a Salvage or Used Part Be Installed?
Another potential money-saving option for your repair is to inquire about used or even salvage parts, which may cost just a fraction of the price of a new part. Sometimes, you can even find pre-owned parts that have been refurbished or restored and come with a limited warranty, which can give you added peace of mind in your purchase.
What Does Your Quoted Price Include?
Make sure the price you're being quoted by your mechanic is the "all-in" price so you know what to expect when it comes time to pay the repair bill. Specifically, be sure the price includes not only the cost of the new part, but the labor costs associated with installing the part and any disposal fees for the old part.
What if You Find Additional Problems?
As your mechanic goes to make the actual repair on your vehicle, there's always the possibility that he will come across more issues. If you're concerned about your repair bill skyrocketing, make sure your mechanic agrees to call you and get your permission before making any additional repairs aside from what you have already agreed to with a quote or estimate. This way, you won't experience any surprises when you go to pick up your car.
Needing car repairs is never fun, but by taking the time to ask the right questions (and by making sure you have a reputable and honest mechanic), you'll be well on your way to a more reliable vehicle.
Share