Five Ways To Lower Auto Repair Costs

Auto repair costs have been rising steadily, largely due to the incorporation of computers in nearly every vehicle component. This trend has elevated the level of technical expertise required from mechanics, moving beyond traditional wrenching and assembly skills. As a result, repair costs for both labor and parts have climbed, yet many of these expensive repairs need not be as costly as they seem.

In today's fast-paced society, convenience often takes precedence, leading many drivers to postpone necessary auto and brake-related repairs because of high repair costs. According to Kevin Bressler from Samaritan Car Care Clinic in Covington, KY, many people overlook independent repair shops in favor of the “all done at one shop” feel of vehicle dealerships. Dealerships are often perceived as more knowledgeable, skilled, and equipped with original manufacturer parts and terrific customer service. The appealing amenities at a dealership —like Wi-Fi, spotless interiors, freshly brewed coffee, and even baked goods—can make the dealership choice attractive for customers needing automotive/brake repairs. However, the price tag that comes with such conveniences can be daunting, causing essential auto maintenance visits and auto repairs to be pushed off until the need becomes critical.

Fortunately, independent auto/brake repair shops often provide lower rates without sacrificing quality. These mechanics are typically very skilled and efficient at their job, yet many customers hesitate to choose this route. The abundance of options can make finding the right auto and brake repair shop overwhelming, as people fear making a poor choice that could lead to subpar work or even greater total costs than can be obtained at a dealership.

When we do consider independent auto/brake repair shops, we may also rely on voice search services like Siri, which make their recommendations off of businesses that have heavily advertised on Google or other Internet search engines. Unfortunately, this extra marketing cost ultimately gets passed on to the customer in higher repair costs and ignores the great service that many smaller shops just don’t have the income to use to buy expensive advertising.

So, if you’re open to selecting an independent auto/brake care shop and want to identify the best option based on price and service, here are some steps to follow:

1) Contact Local Shops: Call or visit a few auto or brake repair shops in your area to request estimates for your needed auto/brake repairs.

2) Compare Estimates: Gather quotes from at least two more shops to gain a better understanding of the pricing landscape.

3) Watch for Extras: Stay vigilant for any unexpected "add-ons" in the quotes that some shops may charge but others do not.

4) Request a Warranty: Ensure you obtain a written warranty for both parts and labor. This guarantees that repairs will be performed correctly and provides reassurance that any issues will be addressed without additional charges.

5) Address Small Repairs Promptly: Don’t delay minor repairs; small issues can escalate over time, leading to larger, more costly problems down the line.

If you’re new to the concept of finding an independent auto/brake repair shop, starting with recommendations can be beneficial. Ask family, friends or neighbors for their trusted mechanics and auto/brake repair shops. You can also conduct a Google search to locate nearby auto repair shops. Most internet searches will begin or feature “sponsored” (big advertising/bigger cost) repair shops, followed by a map with nearby auto/brake repair shops, and then give a long list of auto/brake repair shops ranked by their knowledge and skills in performing the automotive/brake repairs you are seeking, verified by customer feedback.

Once you’ve identified three independent auto or brake repair shops, contact each to obtain estimates. It’s advisable to visit the shop with the lowest quote to gauge your comfort level with their service and mechanics. By following these steps, you can make an informed decision while supporting local businesses and the families that rely on them. Happy driving!

Adapted from the video blog:  5 ways to lower your auto repair costs | Watch