Finding a great auto repair shop can be hard. Although there are many auto repair shops around, many car owners do not feel comfortable taking their car to just any repair shop, and for good reasons. Yet, you must take your vehicle to one to keep it running smoothly. The good news is that there are good repair shops out there. You need to know the traits to look out for. Here are seven telltale features and traits that indicate that you’ve found the best auto repair shop.
1. Cleanliness
Car repairs can be messy, but a good auto repair shop will go the extra mile to keep their garage clean. While it won’t be squeaky clean, it won’t be a complete mess either. A clean car shop indicates that the mechanics are organized and care about their reputation.
2. Experienced mechanics
The worth of any auto repair shop is in the ability to carry out repairs without issues. For that to happen, a car shop must have experienced mechanics. The mechanics must be thoroughly familiar with the different auto parts available on the market and have years of experience in the business. One objective indicator is the ASE certification: National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifies mechanics in over 50 auto repair skills.
3. Warranty
Many independent auto repair shops offer better warranties than dealerships. Best shops offer 3 year / 36,000 mile nationwide warranty. This is often combined with original equipment manufacturer quality parts – high quality parts make possible long warranties.
4. Good reputation
Like any other business, a good reputation is a vital characteristic of a good auto repair shop. You can confirm their reputation by checking out online reviews. Also, pay attention to how they respond to negative reviews.
5. Fast and professional service
No one wants to wait forever before they can resume driving their car. When you visit an auto repair shop, ask how long the repairs take. Sometimes they may not be able to give an exact answer, because they do not yet know what is wrong with your vehicle, but at least they should be able to tell you when you can expect the results of the initial inspection.
6. DVI – Digital Vehicle Inspections
Superior shops stay on the cutting edge of technology. They will have latest electronic diagnostic tools, and will offer Digital Vehicle Inspections – you will be provided with an electronic copy of the inspection results, including videos or pictures of problem areas.
7. Customer Service
Auto repair shop that has employees that answer the phones instead of forcing you to leave a message, that offer complimentary local shuttle/Uber/Lyft, that go out of their way to accommodate your schedule, and take the time to listen to your concerns, and to explain any issues they find with your vehicle in plain English, are the shops that truly care about theirs customers – and show it not through slogans but through action.
When you find a shop that you rate highly on all 7 traits, you can take your car there with confidence – you have found the right shop.
At Diablo Auto Specialists we strive every day to live up to these high standards and to become your go-to auto repair shop in Walnut Creek. If you have any auto related questions, feel free to give us a call.