How Do I Know if My Mechanic Is Honest?

How Do I Know if My Mechanic Is Honest?

February 12, 2020

One of the most precarious parts of adulthood is the search for an honest mechanic. As much as most of us rely on our cars, we don’t always know the ins and outs of what keeps them working. It’s nothing to be ashamed of—the inner workings of a combustion engine are complicated. A mechanic in Everett, WA spends years learning how to master the specifics of your car’s engine. Unfortunately, there are a number of professional auto mechanics willing to exploit your lack of knowledge to improve their own bottom line.

If you’re wondering whether or not you’re dealing with an honest mechanic, here are some tips to help you find out.

Double check the estimate

When you’re given your estimate for repairs, make sure you get it in writing. Then, if you have a smartphone, you can jump online and use one of several resources that will allow you to enter your car’s make and model and the mechanic’s suggested repairs.

From there, these search tools will display the range of amounts those specific repairs should cost. Something like RepairPal can help you find out if your mechanic is on the level quick and in a hurry.

Disrupt the explanation

When they hand you the bill, every mechanic in Everett, WA (and the world, honestly) will make some attempt to explain precisely what is wrong with your vehicle and what needs to be fixed. Most of them will offer an explanation that is pretty technical, at least at first.

An honest mechanic will let you stop their explanation midstream so you can ask for explanations of anything you don’t understand. Then, they should be able to explain themselves in terms you do understand. A dishonest mechanic, meanwhile, will be hesitant to explain themselves in layman’s terms.

Credentials don’t make the mechanic

If you walk in the front door of a potential mechanic to find their walls plastered with random certifications, or if they try to upsell a service or product that’s supposedly part of a certification that sounds unfamiliar, you could be getting had.

Look for simple certifications that you understand. First and foremost, look for an ASE-certified mechanic. The ASE, or National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, requires its members to uphold specific standards of expertise and honesty to belong. Another good certification to keep an eye out for is a high rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Go with the pros who know

The search for a great mechanic in Everett, WA doesn’t have to be a harrowing journey. At Auto Truck Service Inc., we take pride in offering honest, reliable service at a fair price.

We’re more than just trucks, too. For more than 40 years, we’ve worked tirelessly to offer every one of our customers a personalized experience designed to meet their needs. We’re all about establishing long-term relationships with our clients, and we’re ready to prove it. No matter the make and model of your car or truck, Auto Truck Service Inc. can get you back on the road. Give us a call today—we can’t wait to hear from you!

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