Point Mechanical

San Ramon CA Auto and Truck Repair Mechanics ASE Certified

auto mechanic, auto repair, brake repair, car repairs, repair shops, truck repair

8 questions you need to ask when looking for the right auto mechanic for your car repairs!

1. Is your garage an affiliate of the Automotive Service Association (ASA)?

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) only affiliates itself with repair shops that have a consistent record of excellent in auto repair service. If you cannot see the familiar ASA sticker or seal in the auto mechanic’s office, ask the auto mechanic if he has been given their approval. Bringing your car to an auto repair shop or a truck repair shop that has no signs or stickers indicating an ASA inspection means you might be in for some questionable service.

2. Has your garage been awarded an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certificate?

ASE certifications have been offered since 1972, and it is becoming increasingly standard for mechanics to have ASE certifications in order to work in auto repair or truck repair shops. Consumers should be aware that even if only one auto mechanic in a shop is certified, the auto repair or truck repair shop may display the ASE seal. Consumers can always ask to see the specific ASE Certifications held by mechanics in the shop, which will list the names of the certified mechanics and their areas of expertise.

3. What credentials do you and the other technicians have?

An ASE Certified auto mechanic is an auto mechanic who has fulfilled the voluntary requirements for certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Mechanics who have ASE certifications are generally viewed as more desirable candidates for employment by companies which hire mechanics, such as auto repair shops, auto body shops, truck repair shops, car dealers and bus yards. ASE certification can also be reassuring for individual consumers who want to ensure that their vehicles receive work from competent, highly professional auto repair or truck repair mechanics.

4. Does your garage specialize in a particular type of repair (brake repair, transmission, etc.)?

Without it being explicitly written on a sign outside the repair shops, many auto repair mechanics will admit they do their best car repairs on a certain make of car or certain auto repair job. Ask about this, since you probably wouldn’t want your Nissan worked on at a place that is used to repairing Chevy trucks. Make sure you know what your auto repair or truck repair garage’s strengths and weaknesses are.

5. Do you charge for estimates?

Good mechanics are generally willing to offer you an estimate in writing at no charge. If the auto mechanic you choose is unwilling to do so or wants to charge you for the estimate, the auto mechanic is much more likely to try and pad your bill when he actually works on your car.

6. Will I have the option to choose either new or used parts?

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are specifically designed for your car, but may cost a little more. Aftermarket parts are manufactured by a third-party for a variety of vehicles; they’re less expensive, but may not work as well in your car as OEM parts. Rebuilt or remanufactured parts were previously used, but they have been repaired or restored and should be in good working condition. Salvage parts are simply taken from one vehicle and placed in another without any repair or modification; they are usually the least expensive, but do not come with a warranty or guarantee.

7. Will you provide an itemized invoice and an explanation of the repairs to my car?

Unfortunately, invoices from auto repair shops aren’t easy to read. Often, this is done on purpose, so customers won’t question every single detail of a certain job. Don’t stand for this. Before the auto mechanic starts working on your vehicle, specify that you would like a detailed breakdown on your invoice of the repairs done. Ask the auto mechanic to tour your car and point out what was removed, replaced and repaired. Ask to see the old part that was changed.

8. What payment options and guarantees do you offer?

Every auto repair or truck repair garage has different labor rates, warranties and payment options, so it’s important to find out how your mechanic works. Often these policies are posted somewhere highly visible in the garage, but if any point is ambiguous, be sure to have it cleared up before getting your car worked on. After you find out which part is going to be replaced, don’t forget to ask about the warranty on it.
About the Author

Dan Curtis has been in the San Ramon valley since 1997 and has thousands of very satisfied customers. San Ramon Auto Repair is a complete auto maintenance facility that repairs and services a diverse range of vehicles. Whether you need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment or you require repairs due to damage or malfunction, look no further! Our state-of-the-art service facility marries the latest automotive technology with excellent customer service.

Contact Dan at 925-831-6700 or check out his site at:

http://www.autorepairsanramonca.com

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