Finding a Good Technician

So how do you find a good mechanic? The ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) offers these additional tips on finding a good mechanic:

• Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one. You can make better decisions when you are not rushed or in a panic.
• Ask friends and associates for recommendations. Even in this high-tech era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation is valuable.
• Check with local consumer organizations about the reputation of any business you're considering, Inquire about complaints and the rate of resolution of complaints.
• Think in advance about how you'll get to and from the shop when dropping off and picking up your vehicle. This way, you can avoid having to choose a shop based solely on location.
• Look for shops displaying industry and Better Business Bureau membership, awards, repair rates and modern equipment.
• Once you've chosen a shop, ask if they offer written estimates and warranties on repairs.
• If you're having car problems, make specific notes, about sounds, odors, acceleration or mileage changes and when problems occur. Also note if they're constant or periodic, at what speed they happen and whether the vehicle is cold or warm, etc...,so you can present as much information as possible to your technician.