Getting the most out of a car repair garage isn't easy. These tips will help you get more out of any of the services offered by your garage.
Be precise. Talk to the garage about exactly what type of service your car needs and what you expect from them. If you don't know what your car needs, tell them!
Speak up. Most garages aren't going to do a bonnet to boot check of your car to find everything that's wrong with it. If you've noticed something is amiss with your car - like a strange noise it hasn't made before - talk to the mechanic about it. Any information can ensure your car gets thoroughly checked.
If you're taking your car in for a repair because you're having certain issues or concerns, write down what you have noticed before you take your car in. Does your car make a funny noise only in a certain gear or at a particular speed? Can you describe the noise? Does it get louder at some times than others? If you're working with a great garage, they'll take notes on what you've noticed and ask plenty of detailed questions to get an idea of how to treat your car.
Ask for an estimate. Make sure your car repair garage gives you a detailed estimate in writing so you can decide which repair service your car needs.
Be ready. Before you hand your car over to the mechanics, make sure the garage understands that they should call you first to let you know if they find other problems. They should get your permission before adding extra work that will cost more and take longer to complete.
Know how much labour costs. Knowing the actual labour rates of your garage, rather than just the total cost of services, is one way to find a good garage. Cheaper isn't always better, remember, but you don't always have to go with the most expensive option, either. Dealers normally have higher rates of £100 or more per hour, and lower quality garages offer rates as low as £30 per hour (time of writing April 2012). Independent garages with high quality mechanics normally charge between £50 and £60 per hour.
Ask about waste disposal charges. Legally, garages have to dispose of waste in a way that doesn't harm the environment. Fees for doing so are normally added on top of labour and parts charges, and good garages will let you know how much you're paying for these upfront.
Get a detailed invoice. An itemised invoice will let you know where your money was spent.
Keep your old parts. One way to make sure the work was done right is to ask the garage for any old parts that they have replaced. Have the mechanic show you where the old part went, and if possible try to make sure you can see the new part in its place. That way, you'll be able to see the results of the work you're paying
Let them know. If you aren't happy with the garage's customer service or repair job, let them know. If a garage wants to keep its customers, as good garages do, they'll set things right quickly so that you're satisfied with their work.
Luke Tebby is the assistant manager at SF Tebby & Son a family run car repair garage in Bristol providing high quality car servicing, have an onsite MOT testing station and buy and sell used cars. Luke is an avid car enthusiast and author of the company's website and blog. Find all the latest information on the motor industry and tips to keep your motoring pain free at SF Tebby and Son.
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