Monday, October 28, 2013

4 Signs Your Auto Repair Shop is Taking You for a Ride

It is not uncommon to get varying estimates from different auto repair shops. You might get a whole body repair for only $300, whereas another service provider offer you the same service package but for $2000.

But how do you spot which auto repair shop is worth your money and your trust? How do you know which car services provider is true to the tenets of customer service and is not after a quick buck at your expense?

There are many ways to tell whether an auto repair shop is taking you for a ride, but here are four sure signs to look for:


  1. If an auto shop is a legitimate business and claims it has a team of certified car experts, then they will display all sorts of certifications and recognitions like ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) or AAA (America Automobile Association) certifications.

    A state license and a business permit should be on the wall of the establishment. Somewhere visible where you could immediately spot them the moment you enter the building. If the shop you are dealing with doesn’t have such parchments displayed on their wall, you better take your car somewhere else.
  2. When an auto repair shop states that they are particularly popular in the area yet not one of your friends and relatives have provided a word-of-mouth testimony about their services and business, you might be better off looking somewhere else. Recommendations from people you know are good indications of a business’s reliability and good service. If the shop you are talking to is not getting the love from your peers and loved ones, then perhaps they don’t deserve any from you.
  3. Never ever sign a blank authorization form with your name on it. Auto repair shops that sweet talk you into signing such documents are usually throwing you through a loop. Run away as soon as they do this. Legitimate auto shops provide a list of estimates as well as warranties that apply to the job required.
  4. When a mechanic says he does not need any modern tools and equipment to have a good look at your car, do not be fooled. Modern cars now require modern technicians and they need more than just a trusty old monkey wrench.


These four signs are just the tip of the iceberg. Let your instinct and common sense guide you to pick a good auto shop that is worthy of your trust and money. Filter out those that prey on people who don’t know anything about the auto repair business.

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com