We compiled what we think are four extremely important tips that should help you save money on those costly repairs.
SIOUX FALLS, SD, December 08, 2019 /Neptune100/ — We know auto repairs. It’s a vital part of running an extended auto warranty company. But we understand that most people don’t know much about automotive repairs outside of what they have heard at a mechanics shop, so we compiled what we think are four extremely important tips that should help you save money on those costly repairs.
Find the best mechanic/repair shop near you
The most obvious tip comes first: If you find a mechanic or a repair shop that you trust and treats you like an intelligent human being who also happens to be their valued customer, you stick to that shop like glue. Find someone who deserves your business and reward them handsomely for staying in business. The good guys need all the help they can get.
This one will probably seem like the most obvious, but if you find a mechanic/repair shop that you truly trust and treats you like a stand up person and valued customer, keep working with them! Find a great repair shop or mechanic who deserves your business and reward them by sticking around and continuing to give them business. If you find a diamond in the rough, treat em that way.
That said, finding a great mechanic can be tough. One way to weed through your prospects is with the internet. Check out yelp reviews and hit up some local car forums, see what other people have to say. See what your friends and family have to say, maybe they can point you in the right direction. You can even check out what AAA has to say! They have a list of AAA approved auto repair shops.
Shop around and get estimates
Even if you have found a great and reputable mechanic, it doesn’t mean you can’t also shop around or get a second opinion if you think a repair might be too pricey. The key behind doing this is to get written estimates and to make absolute certain that they are valid for as long as you plan to do your shopping around. Once you have your estimate, take your car to another reliable auto shop and get a second opinion. Don’t share the diagnosis from the first shop, especially if you think you are being ripped off. See what the second shop says and how much they are willing to charge, then decide which one you would rather go with.
Buy your own code reader and perform your own diagnostics
In today’s world, consumer electronics have gotten cheaper and cheaper. If you go on amazon, or any online retailer, you can find tons of On Board Diagnostics scanners for your car. These little computers plug into your car and give you a diagnostic report on what is triggering safety sensors in your vehicle. Some of them even sync to your smartphone, making it even easier to diagnose the issues. Knowing what is causing your car to think it needs to be repaired is key knowledge when bringing it to the repair shop because you know precisely what needs to be fixed.
Simply Do It Yourself
Now, this can be a tricky one. If you have been doing your research, you should be able to figure out what types of repairs you would be comfortable performing yourself. Whether it is sticking to the basics like being able to check your cars own fluids, changing your own oil, replacing air filters, or some more challenging repairs like changing your own rotors or breaks, simply doing it yourself can save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Plus you are gaining a new skill that you can potentially use for the rest of your life!
Since 2007, Patriot Warranty has been servicing Vehicle Owners with dedicated quality care and providing comprehensive coverage to all drivers nationwide. Since the beginning, our goal has been to provide exceptional service, eliminating delays, and developing the industry standard for Extended Vehicle Service Programs. How do we do it? Patriot Warranty is staffed with ASE certified technicians who work for you. Our staff speaks directly with your repair center and provides coverage authorization in a timely manner directly over the phone.