A car is probably the second biggest financial purchase in any person’s life; second only to buying a house. It's also an essential tool as one's primary mode of transportation, so it is but natural to seek the best possible care for your beloved daily driver.
Keep an eye out for these
But how do you go about finding the perfect car auto repair shop here in Austin? The first thing I do is to scour car forums for people’s reviews and experiences with the auto repair shops I’m considering. Here you will find real life feedback from real people who have nothing to gain or lose from praising or badmouthing a certain shop so people usually give their honest opinion on the shops they’ve been to.
After that, try to find a connection or a recommendation from a friend. It’s important that the shop doesn’t just treat you as another job but as a personal colleague or friend because then they’ll put their best foot forward. But if you can’t find a connection, then just go visit the shop to see what’s what.
The first impression that the shop leaves with you is a very important sign. If the place is clean and tidy, then there’s a good chance you’ve found a good repair shop like Austin Auto Repair. If the work area is off-putting with old parts and spilt oil all over the place, then you might want to consider walking away.
If the place’s appearance passes, then the next step is to talk to the mechanic. Ask about their expertise, what parts they use, and ask for a quotation. Be wary of threats such as “It’s a good thing you brought it in today. I don’t think this would have made it until tomorrow.” Sometimes it’s just a ploy to make you think the repairs are really urgent when it really isn’t. We’re not after a sweet-talker. We’re looking for an honest, straightforward mechanic we can trust. After all, you’re putting a few years’ worth of wages into their hands.
Look for a second opinion
It can be tricky to find a good auto repair shop given all the factors that you have to look out for, but it can be done. There are simple telltale signs that can signal you to take the dive or take your business elsewhere.
If possible, look for a second opinion before choosing the shop you want to work on your car. Compare diagnoses and prices just to be sure you’re not getting ripped off. Just keep these in mind and you’ll find one in no time.