5 Questions to Ask Your Auto Mechanic

The longer you own a car, you will eventually find yourself at an auto repair shop trying to interpret what the technician is trying to tell you. It can be difficult to know what questions to ask your auto mechanic when you’re really worried about how much it going to cost to get back on the road. All the while you are trying to determine how you can trust your auto mechanic.

Even though you might not understand everything about automotive repair, it is still important that you have enough information to make an educated decision about the repair options. Here are 5 easy questions any trustworthy mechanic should be able to clearly answer.

Can you show me the problem?

Most mechanics are not out to get you. But if they are, they can often stumble up by an easy request to see the part needing attention. While some issues might be with your car’s electronics and will not have a basic spot to point to, it is still a good idea to try. Having a visual aid will also make a tech’s explanation easier to understand.

What happens if I don’t fix the problem?

This is one of the best questions to ask your auto mechanic. Ask the shop what the concerns might be if you do not fix the issue right away. Always Ask! While a timing belt might need replacement but still might be good for another few thousand miles; a brake issue almost certainly cannot wait.

What repairs do I need to do?

Some technicians make repairs seem urgent but not everything needs to be addressed immediately. Having multiple issues is not uncommon, a couple of them might not be a big deal and can wait. Have your mechanic prioritize what is wrong with the car and needs to be repaired for the safety specifications.

Can I see the defective part?

Before the repair has been made, ask the shop to save the faulty part so you can look at it. It is quantifiable proof they did the work promised.

Can you explain how you fixed it?

What you really want is to build a relationship with the technician and not just the service advisor behind the counter. Now some advisors are former mechanics, Great Plains Auto Body & Car Care included! Ask to have explained in a technical way what the problem was, how they caught it, and how it was fixed. This will help build a rapport and then you will have your own tech.

Now that you have key questions to ask your auto mechanic, you can bring it to ‘Mike’ instead of just ‘ABC Auto Repair.’ This is now a guy who will know you and your car and do what he can to keep you on the road!

If you have any questions or want an honest look at your car, call Mike at Great Plains Auto Body & Car Care or stop in and see him at 4103 Leavenworth Street, 402.551.6000.

Great Plains Auto Body Repair Shops in Omaha & Council Bluffs | Best Auto Body Shops Omaha & Council Bluffs, IA

At Great Plains Auto Body shop Omaha and Council Bluffs, we’re committed to giving you an unmatched level of service. As a company that’s been family-owned and operated for more than 26 years, we’re dedicated to treating our customers as we would treat members of our own family. We’ll keep you informed throughout the entire repair process and make sure you’re satisfied when the job is complete. From estimating and detailing to collision repair and paint services, our ASE-certified mechanics and technicians make sure the job is done right and on time.