How to Find a Good Auto Repair Shop

If you want to find a good auto repair shop, you need to recognize that you're trying to build a relationship. When you find a trustworthy shop, you have someone to call when a question or problem arises. You're also more assured of being treated fairly, especially if a repair is expensive.

Most shops will make an extra effort to please a customer they have a good relationship with.

Here are the steps you need to take in order to find a reliable repair shop for your vehicle.

Finding candidates 

There are several resources available that you can use to find a repair shop you trust. One option is to ask friends, family, and co-workers who they use. Another option is to take a look through your local yellow pages telephone directory. You can also take note of any shops that you notice as you're driving around your neighborhood.

Once you've settled on a short list of candidates, check online to see if the shop has a good reputation with the local Better Business Bureau, and whether or not there are any customer reviews. Rule out the ones with a bad reputation.

For the remaining possibilities, check their websites to see what services they offer and get an idea of the tone of the business.

When you find a good auto repair shop, take it for a test drive

When you find a repair business you're comfortable with, call and schedule a simple service such as an oil change or a tire repair. Wait around on the premises while the work is being done so you'll have ample opportunity to see everything that goes on and observe how shop personnel treat other customers.

You should also try to determine the happiness of the employees and the overall mood if the business. Happy employees are more likely to stick around - and you can't rely on a shop with a high rate of staff turnover.

All this will give you a chance to see if there's anything about the place that makes you uncomfortable, before spending too much money or time.

Things to check when you check in

• When you walk in, does the shop look clean and organized? Repair shops aren't the cleanest places, but it shouldn't look like it's been days since they've swept the floor. There shouldn't be equipment or tools lying around and in the way. The customer area should be clean and pleasant.
• Does the service writer write down what you want done or enter it on the computer as you tell her?
• Do the mechanics use seat covers and floor mats while they work on vehicles?

• When the work is finished, does someone go over the bill and answer any questions?

If you want to find a good auto repair shop, focus on finding a relationship

If you take the time to find a good auto repair shop, it'll pay off. By finding, and building a relationship with, a trustworthy shop you'll have someone to call when a problem arises. Plus, you'll be  treated fairly even with expensive repairs.

People you know can help you find someone, but the real test is to make an exploratory visit in person to assess the staff and premises. The shop you choose may not be the cheapest, but paying a little more for reliability and good service can save money in the long run.