When you take your vehicle to an auto mechanic, you should have reasonable assurance that they are reputable and trustworthy, rather than someone who is waiting to perpetrate one of many different auto mechanic scams. You should always research your mechanic ahead of time. However, being prepared with knowledge of some of the car repair tricks of those mechanics can help you avoid being scammed. Here are some things look for, and none of them require much more than some basic automotive knowledge. Thanks to WalletPop for giving us some great ideas.
Most auto mechanic scams depend upon a customer’s lack of automotive knowledge, and this one is no exception. A mechanic may say that a part needs to be replaced, but they may remove it, clean it up, then simply put it back on the car so that it looks brand new. Common targets are batteries, oil filters, and radiators. Some mechanics say they replaced your old part with a refurbished one. They have actually done nothing. If you can take the car home first before you are going to have any repairs done, mark the part in question with a small dab of paint that isn’t easy to spot unless someone knows it’s there. After repairs are complete, ask to see the old part as well as the purchase order for the new one. Match the receipt with the new part. It was a scam if you find paint on the part.
There’s manic maintenance
Always follow manufacturer suggested intervals for standard maintenance. Check your owner’s manual. The manufacturers know your vehicle model better than you or anyone else will, so their recommended specs are authoritative. If a mechanic tries to get you to agree to an oil change, flush or other repair sooner than you might actually need it, you’ll have reason for suspicion. Just to be safe, bring your owner’s manual with you when you take your car in for maintenance or repair.
Never pay for guesswork
If you have ever paid for auto repair that didn’t address the real problem, this tip is for you. Hold your mechanic to a high standard of accountability. Demand a refund if they didn’t fix it the first time. Try a different mechanic if problems persist.
Think all about your dipstick
Check your oil via the dipstick before you go in for repairs. Do this, because you want an accurate reading of your engine’s oil level and also because this will remind you to watch for an old nickel-and-dime trick some mechanics use. . Sure, it may only be $5 or $10, but that’s something. Also, watch for the detached spark plug trick – it could save you from unnecessary engine exploratory work. While there, don’t get new power steering. WalletPop reports that no manufacturer recommends this.
With labor, doubled over
Repair jobs lead to other repair jobs sometimes. Mechanics will double the labor charge sometimes. If you’re quoted one labor cost, that’s what you should pay in many cases. If the new job is big, the mechanic needs to make money off his or her time. Communicate with your mechanics and make sure they spell out whether additional labor charges will be incurred before you give your consent to proceed.
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