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What to Look for When Choosing a Used Car Repair Service.

by Trevor Riggs - Posted 2 years ago




What to Look for When Choosing a Used Car Repair Service.


In the same way that clear communication between you and your doctor means better care for your body, clear communication with your mechanic means better care for your used car!


 It makes sense that you know your used car better than anyone else. You drive it daily and know what it feels and sounds like when everything is fine. So please pay attention to its warning signals. Get your car checked to make sure nothing is wrong.


The phrase "car mechanic near me" has been Googled by most of us with a feeling of dread, scrolling through dozens of online reviews in a desperate attempt to gauge an auto repair shop's quality. Eventually, most of us will have to deal with the problem of finding an honest mechanic. There are unscrupulous car mechanics and disreputable repair shops out there. The real problem is most of us need to learn the difference between a piston and a rod, which makes putting things over on us easy. The mechanic may not be trying to scam you but must be equipped with the latest diagnostics tools to determine what's wrong. Taking apart the engine to diagnose the problem can take hours.


You can help yourself along the way by following these tips:


  • "Preventative Medicine"

  • Follow the recommended service schedules. 

  • Keep a log of all repairs and services. 


Check your used car for: 

  1. Any strange sound 

  2. There's an odor you are not used to smelling

  3. There are new drips. 

  4. Leaks that are new or unusual

  5. Smoke 

  6. It's a good idea to check the warning lights

  7. Changes in acceleration 

  8. Performance changes in the engine

  9. Increase or decrease in gas mileage 

  10. Fluid level fluctuations

  11. A worn-out tire, belt, or hose. 

  12. The ability to handle, brake, and steer is impaired

  13. Inexplicable vibrations


When there is a problem, here's what you should do!


Make a note of the info/symptoms, so your mechanic will know what to look for.

What was the first time the problem occurred?

Is there a specific time when the problem occurs?

Is it a constant occurrence, or does it happen now and then? 

Does the problem happen when the vehicle is cold or after the engine has warmed up? 

When you accelerate or brake, are you able to notice the problem?

At all speeds? When shifting? 


Remember to let the technician diagnose and recommend a remedy, even if you already know the problem. Plus, it's essential to avoid demanding an on-the-spot diagnosis. The technician must thoroughly examine the vehicle before knowing what's going on.  


Stay involved. And don't be shy about asking as many questions as you need to understand the problem. Mechanical terminology can be confusing to the layperson. 

If you are still getting familiar with technical terms, ask for a simple explanation.


Be patient, as most of us feel entirely incapacitated without our vehicles. Ask to be contacted and informed about the problem, recommended treatment, and cost BEFORE work begins.

Make sure you know what payment methods are accepted and what labor rates are before you leave.


Providing your technician with specific information will enable him to diagnose the problem, repair the damage, and get you back on the road.


Deals On Wheels Of Great Falls is the first and last place you will need to shop for a quality used car.