7 Ways to Find a Total Car Care Provider

Purchasing a vehicle isn’t cheap. Regular maintenance is the best way to protect your investment.

It only makes sense to put some effort into finding the best mechanic to whom you can entrust your vehicle. You want someone who you feel comfortable with and who can answer your questions. Let’s take a look at 7 ways to find the car care provider that’s just right for you.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations.

The other people in your life are your best resources. Find out who they go to and what they like about them.

Read online reviews.

You may be surprised by how much insight you can gain by reading reviews previous customers have left on a particular shop’s website.

Give them a call.

A simple telephone call can give you a lot of information, not the least of which is their level of customer service. It also gives you a chance to ask about the services they provide, as well as their prices.

Comparison shop.

While you’re looking for the most economical choice, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Compare the rates of several shops in your area and go for the one that seems like a great value while also providing an excellent level of service -- not necessarily the cheapest one.

Customer education counts.

A good car care provider will explain everything to you in a way you can understand. They will be forthcoming about options and honest about what needs are immediate and what can wait and they will be able to answer all your questions.

Go for someone who’s certified.

When you think about how complex some of the systems of today’s cars are, it makes sense to choose a mechanic who is certified and participates in ongoing professional development.

Work should be guaranteed.

Find out what the shop’s policy is on their work. You’ll want to go with someone who offers a customer satisfaction guarantee.

Your choice isn’t written in stone

Once you’ve found a mechanic you feel comfortable with, don’t feel obligated to continue giving them your business if things change and your level of satisfaction isn’t at the level it once was.

If you have a bad experience, evaluate your options and begin your search again if you need to.