Looking for an auto mechanic?
If you’re not sure what to look for or how to find a trustworthy, reliable, and certified mechanic in your area, you’re in the right place!
It may be hard to tell if a repair shop has the right tools and equipment, but there are some questions you can ask to help you make an educated decision.
- Look at the shop’s work area.
You don’t have to be an automotive expert to know if a repair shop looks organized, professional, and relatively clean. If the business is organized and professional, it should look that way.
- Check out the shop’s certificates and plaques.
Usually, a mechanic will have certificates hanging in the waiting area for everyone to see. There are several things you can look for here. Keep in mind that there is no single certification and the standards for each are different. Some are for individual technicians while others are for shops and employees as a single unit.
The following are good things to see:
- Memberships to local, regional, or national organizations, like an auto body association.
- Training and certifications that the shop or it’s technicians have received.
a.Auto manufacturers may provide factory training in collision repair. Look for a brand you know, like Ford, Honda, Nissan and more.
b.I-CAR, or the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, is a non-profit organization that provides training to techs and shops across the country.
c.ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is a standard testing system that provides certifications to professionals in the industry. You might find the blue and white ASE symbol on a technician’s uniform.
d.OEM Certifications for shops come from auto manufacturers you’d recognize like General Motors or Toyota. See if your vehicle’s brand is included.
e.Third party certificates can vary but many are useful and worthy of your time. Paint companies, products suppliers, industry training centers, and colleges also offer certifications you may find.
- Ask a question.
One sign of a great repair shop is that they’re willing to answer your questions. Not sure what to ask? Here are a few potential questions.
- Ask how the repair process works.
- Ask for an estimate.
- Ask to see reviews or speak with other customers.
- Ask about a certification you found on the wall.
- Ask a technician about his or her education, certifications, or why they work where they do.
- Ask a specific question about your car.
