Don’t Get Stranded by Choosing the Wrong Mechanic, BBB Warns

Tips for finding the right fix with your auto repair shop

AUSTIN, Texas - Aug. 14, 2012 — It’s what you’ve been dreading. You’ve heard that funny noise and felt the rattles for quite some time and now the check engine light is on. Something is wrong with your car. It’s that time to use the right tools to find a mechanic.

Since January, Better Business Bureau serving Central, Coastal, Southwest Texas and the Permian Basin received more than 400 complaints against auto repair and service shops. The majority of those complaints allege repair work did not solve the problem, repairs took longer than expected, final costs differed from the estimated cost and companies refused to honor guarantees.
 

Car problems will inevitably affect every car owner at some point. Whether in need of an oil change or a new transmission, finding the right repair shop can save you time and money.

Follow these tips from BBB next time you’re in need of car repairs:

· Take your time and get multiple estimates. Research the problem with your vehicle to better understand the issue and how it can be fixed. If you have time, get several written estimates.

· Find trustworthy shops through BBB. Visit BBB Member Pages to find a BBB Accredited mechanic or auto repair shop.

· Ask for a follow-up after the problem is found. Many shops will charge a diagnostic fee to research a car issue. However, the company should get your permission prior to doing any repair work on your vehicle.

· Ask for warranty information. An auto repair shop should have no issue providing the warranty in writing. If they refuse, that’s a red flag.

To check the reliability of a company and find BBB Accredited businesses, visit bbb.org.

About Better Business Bureau:
BBB's mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. BBB accomplishes this mission by creating a community of trustworthy businesses, setting standards for marketplace trust, encouraging and supporting best practices, celebrating marketplace role models and denouncing substandard marketplace behavior.