Choosing a Repair Shop
A Checklist
Here are some tips from the non-profit National Institute for Automotive
Service Excellence (ASE) on finding a good repair establishment:
- Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one.
- Ask friends and associates for recommendations; consult local consumer
organizations.
- Arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced
to choose a shop based solely on location.
- Look for a neat, well organized facility, with some vehicles in the parking
lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.
- Look for a courteous staff, with a service writer willing to answer all of
your questions.
- Look for policies regarding labor rates, diagnostic fees, guarantees,
acceptable methods of payment, etc.
- Ask if the repair facility specializes or if it usually handles your type
of repair work.
- Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area such as
civic, community, or customer service awards.
- Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas,
certificates of advanced course work, and certification by ASE.
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