Avoid Car Repair Rip-Offs

Posted on 01. Sep, 2010 by Forest in General, Opinion, Saving Money & Finances

Simple ideas to make sure you avoid avoid car repair rip-offs

Car mechanics are one of the factors of society that we tend to have a love-hate relationship with. When your car breaks down in the middle of the road and you get yourself towed to the mechanics shop it’s often more than just one that that gets quoted to you for the repair. The fan belt, spark plugs, oil change, electric wipers and on and on. The problem is unless you are a mechanic yourself there is no way of telling if they are trying to rip you off and extort more cash out of you. There are endless stories of mechanics changing parts for new even when the are absolutely fine!

Here are some basic tips to try and ensure that you avoid car repair rip-offs in the future.

Preventative tips

Prevention is key they say. If you can prevent your car from breaking down then it helps avoiding trouble later down the line.

1. Learn the basics of car maintenance so that you can do general upkeep. Most cars come with a Haynes car manual so that is always a great start. Also you will have better idea as to what a mechanic’s quote is and if you are getting ripped off.
2. Follow basic maintenance with oil changes, keeping the car clean and general upkeep as advised in the manual.
3. Try to get a relationship going with a trusted mechanic even before you need any work. Ask friends, family and co-workers for their recommendations and go and see them to get basic pricing and check out their work shops.
4. Get AAA or similar coverage. They really are worthwhile!

What to do when it’s too late!

If you are not pre-prepared then it may be a bit of a panic but keep your head together and be sensible and you shouldn’t get ripped off.

1. Ask them to explain every detail on the repair quote and why it needs doing. People’s stories can become undone and you can get rid of some of the non-essential work.
2. Call your friends before getting towed and see if they can recommend a place.
3. See if another garage is willing to pick up your car for a quote of the work. 2 quotes will give you a good idea of what is going on.
4. Make sure all work is guaranteed so you can’t incur further charges if problems persist.
5. Use an AAA approved garage.

Do you have anymore tips to avoid car repair rip-offs?

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