It’s hard to read or watch the news today and not see another expose on how consumers are being ripped off.  Unfortunately like any other industry a few bad apples give everyone a black eye. So how do you protect yourself?

Have a game plan. “If you don’t know where your headed any road will do.” Your game plan should start with the factory recommended maintenance schedules in your owners manual. The factory calculates the approximate life of most wear out components. Following this guide may help avoid unnecessary repairs. However this is only a guide.

Avoid shopping for the cheapest price, purchase value instead. Ultimately some customers feel they must continually shop for “the best deal” by calling shop after shop. Unfortunately shopping for the lowest price and high quality service is like shopping for food and clothing. They are both things we want and need but they are seldom found in the same store. Purchase value: Value added services might include a longer warranty, quality parts,  honest service. The shop that gives honest service at a fair profit doesn’t need to overload you with unneeded service because their business is already profitable.

It is unwise to pay to much, but it is unwise to pay to little…

Don’t be lured in by unrealistic pricing. If it sounds to good to be true it probably is. All to often we hear from the person who went in for the $ 39.95  brake special and came out with the $ 400 repair. Have you noticed some coupons which have a really low price but state on the bottom in small print ” May require additional repairs at substantial additional cost“. That may be a small hint. How many repairs do you think they do for that one low price? How long do you think they will be in business if they perform repairs for negative profit. 

Find an honest reputable shop and stick with them. Would you rather see a different doctor each time you were sick or the same primary care physician who knows you and has you complete medical history? Seeing the same car care professional each time helps avoid unnecessary repairs by having your vehicles complete repair history. This might cost a little bit more in the short term but saves you lots of money in the long run.

If the repairs don’t sound right “just say no” and get a second opinion. Just as different doctors have different skills and methods, the same is true for automotive repair technicians. The true professional will not be offended. Its you vehicle and your money. Choose wisely.