What to Look for When Choosing an Auto Repair Shop
Buying a car might sound like a one time expense, but there are many recurring costs associated with owning a car. Aside from fuel, a car requires a trip to the garage or repair shop from time to time. Even with proper care and upkeep, vehicles need periodic repairs and professional maintenance. However, if you choose the right kind of workshop, you can extend the period between your visits.
8 Tips for choosing the best auto repair shop
To guide you better, here are eight important tips for choosing the best car repair shop to fix your vehicle.
1. Do your homework
When looking for good car repair shops make sure to do your homework before making a visit. Ask around if people are satisfied with the repair services and repair prices they experienced at the workshop before actually handing them your vehicle.
2. Ask for recommendations
Ask your colleagues, friends, neighbours or family members to recommend a trustworthy auto repair shop for fixing cars. They must be getting their cars repaired from a particular workshop.
Ask them about the level of service, the quality of repairs, and for how long have they been a customer of the workshop. Getting these recommendations before your car faces any problems will not only keep you prepared but also help you make an informed decision and save time.
3. Check for certifications
As soon as you step into the car repair shop you must observe if you can find any professional certifications displayed on the wall or window. Proper auto workshops always display their technical certifications.
These certificates indicate the level of training the technicians received in specific auto repair areas and how up to date their skills are. In simple terms, the best place to fix your car will be a workshop that has certified staff.
4. Check out online reviews
Good car repair shops always have a strong online reputation. They are known for being trustworthy and offering dedicated quality auto services to their clientele. You can always go online and search for car repair shop reviews before choosing a car repair workshop. Happy and satisfied customers never hesitate to put in a good word for companies that offer quality auto repair services.
5. Visit the workshop personally
Before you choose a car repair shop, visiting different auto repair shops to get an idea of their services could be a good practice. Don’t settle for the first shop near your place, go through a number of workshops and observe how their staff works. Determine how technically sound and experienced they are with the repair services. Finally, select the workshop that satisfies you most and fits your budget.
6. Start small
After you select an auto repair shop based on its reputation, start small. Take your vehicle for minor services like an oil replacement or tyre rotations before trusting them with expensive and major car repairs such as car engine repair, electronic repair or brake repair.
If they satisfy you with the level of auto repair service, prices, quality and time duration for smaller fixes, you can easily hand over your car to them for major repairs and services.
7. Compare repair prices
The cost of each repair service depends on the severity of the problem – but you must choose an auto workshop that does not exploit you in the name of car repair services. Make a price comparison by checking out the prices of various services offered by different car repair shops online.
You can also make comparisons by simply making calls to various repair shops and inquire about their car repair rates. You can also visit auto repair shops in person and ask about the price of different car services.
8. Find a repair shop that specializes in your car’s make
If you want to go for major car repairs, it is necessary to find a car repair shop known for dealing in your car’s make. If you own a Toyota or Mercedes, you must find an auto repair workshop famous for offering proper auto services to your car’s brand. Proper auto workshops have the most up-to-date equipment and trained professionals to fix your car and get it back on the road.
Furthermore, if you want to get a classic car repaired, you’ll need to ensure you take your car to the right workshop offering vintage car repair services. After all, no one wants to disrespect a well-kept vintage car. If you are not aware of workshops that repair or maintain vintage vehicles, ask other vintage car enthusiasts for help. Don’t hand over your precious classic to just any auto repair shop.
Benefits of taking your car to official car dealer repair shops
Let’s be clear on one thing: taking your car for repair to its official dealer comes with a set of advantages. Common benefits of getting your car repaired from its official dealer include:
- Better commitment
- Proper warranties
- Original quality parts
- Clean facilities
- Technicians specialized in your vehicle’s make and model
Hope these tips help you in choosing the best auto repair shops.
Always take your car repairs seriously. Driving around in a non-maintained car is not just a safety risk for you but it’s also equally dangerous for others on the road. Here is a complete checklist for car maintenance and car part maintenance. Be responsible and drive in fully maintained vehicles.
Besides, if your car is asking for repairs all the time, it may be because of its age. Under such circumstances, it is sensible to buy another vehicle. Here’s a list of quality used cars available at reasonable rates:
- Buy used cars in Dubai
- Buy second-hand cars in Abu Dhabi
- Used cars for sale in Ajman
- Used cars for sale in Sharjah
- Second-hand cars for sale in Al Ain
- Buy second-hand cars in Fujairah
Stay tuned to the UAE’s top car blog for more information on car repair shops, car DIYs and other news relating to the automotive industry.