What To Look for in an Auto Repair Shop

So, you want to start looking for a family mechanic! Every home should have one. But, auto repair shops that house those mechanics aren’t all built the same way. Some give you a bang for your buck, while others continue to price-gouge customers. Some shops only staff ASE-certified experts, while others allow that to slip underneath the table. To help you stay away from those shadier places, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 biggest things you need to look for in an auto repair shop.

State-Of-The-Art Tools

I’m pretty sure this goes without saying, but nevertheless, it warrants a moment of our time. If a mechanic shop isn’t outfitted with the necessary tools and machinery to get the job done, it’s a place you need to skirt around. After all, if they don’t even have the tools to help, why are they taking your money in the first place? Don’t be afraid to walk inside and ask for a look at the place, either. If you’re dropping your vehicle off at their shop, it’s normal to want to see where your car will be. But, if you walk inside, look around, and the place gives you a bad feeling? Trust your gut.

Certifications

Above all else, the shop you choose should be certified. The National Institute for Automotive Excellence (ASE, for short) takes great care and pride in promoting intelligent and efficient car servicing, repairing, and distribution practices. Their certification means that the A.S.E. has determined that the auto repair shop in question lives up to their stringent standards. So, look for that certification. If you don’t see it, or if they don’t have it, leave.

Warranty Programs

One of the main questions you should ask is about a shop’s warranty policy. Any shop worth their weight in salt backs up their repairs with a personal warranty on top of whatever dealership warranty you may have. A shop-wide warranty policy is similar to a personal brag: it means they are so confident in their work that they’re willing to put their money where their mouth is. Couple that with a shop that’s ASE-certified with some of the latest and greatest tools, and you’re looking at a potential family mechanic winner.

Reviews

This usually goes without saying, but we’re going to say it here: people know what they like and don’t like. So, hop online and quickly search for whatever shop you’re looking at! Their reviews will paint a pretty accurate picture of the kind of service you will receive. Plus, those reviews usually come with some good warnings from individuals you may need to see. Either way, it’s time well spent when you’re researching local auto repair shops.

Awards and Honorable Mentions

Just like everything else in this world, mechanic shops have their own associations and awards they can apply to receive. Those awards cover everything from shop cleanliness to staff intelligence all the way up to magazine nominations such as “Best Company To Work For”. While not all good mechanic shops have time for these kinds of awards, those plaques and certificates provide social proof that backs up the reputation of the mechanic shop. Search for them, or call and ask about them to help you make the best decision for you and your family.

While these 5 things are very important, they aren’t the only 5 things that are important. Above all else, you should feel safe and secure wherever you go. You should be able to trust not just your mechanic but the management that runs the shop in the first place. Do you know who has all 5 of those bullet points beneath their belt? You guessed it! Jeff’s Auto Repair ticks all the boxes listed above and then some. So, if you’re searching for a reputable auto repair shop with ASE certifications and a clean environment, then look no further. Stop in by to take a look at 21701 Hwy 99, Lynnwood, WA 98036 or give us a call at (425) 771-4588 to ask questions! We are here to ease your mind and make your decision much easier.