Many people don’t know what to ask their mechanic when they need work done on their car. Here are ten questions you should ask to ensure you get the most accurate estimate and the best service possible.
What kind of work needs to be done on my car?
Ask this question to find out whether some cyclical maintenance works are due. Also, find out which problems need to be repaired right on the spot and which could be scheduled in the future.
Will the repair require any additional parts or materials?
Spare parts may need some time to be delivered to your local workshop, which needs to be accounted for. Also, for several spare parts, the costs for material could be much more than the actual labor costs.
What are the estimated costs for the work?
Ask this to estimate how much money you should budget for the work. Make sure the estimate is divided by labor and material costs.
Can I get the estimate in written form?
Insist on getting the estimate in writing so you have something to show when it comes to discussions when picking up your car after the repair is finished.
Do you have any warranty or guarantees on the work being done?
For some work, there may be a warranty of half a year or an entire year, so when the piece in question breaks again during this time, the workshop will replace it at no additional cost to you.
Can the work be done the same day, or do I need to schedule an appointment?
Find out when you can bring your car in and how much time the repair will take.
Will I need a rental car while my car is being repaired?
If you’re dependent on your car for commuting or bringing your kids to school, ask your mechanic how long it will take so you can get a rental car for the time of the repair if necessary.
Do you offer any discounts or promotions?
Some workshops have seasonal discounts for specific work or maybe promotional offers you can use to save money.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Check this upfront to find out whether you can pay with a credit card or should bring some cash.
What are your business hours?
Make sure you don’t end up standing in front of locked doors when you come back for your car.
These are just a few questions that you should ask your mechanic before having any work done on your car. It is essential to be an informed consumer to make the best decision for your vehicle and your budget.