When you take your vehicle to an auto mechanic, you should have reasonable assurance that they are reputable and trustworthy. It always helps to research the mechanic ahead of time. However, being prepared with knowledge of some of the sneaky car repair tricks those mechanics that are less than honest can help you avoid being scammed. Here are some things look for, and none of them require much more than some basic automotive knowledge. Thanks to WalletPop for giving us some great ideas.
Source for this article: Watch out for these potential auto mechanic scams
Watch for the spit-and-polish auto mechanic scams
A customer's lack of knowledge is what auto scams depend on. A mechanic may say that a part needs to be replaced, but they may remove it, clean it up, then simply put it back on the car so that it looks brand new. Common targets are batteries, oil filters, and radiators. Some mechanics say they replaced your old part with a refurbished one. They have actually done nothing. If you can take the car home first before having repairs done, mark the part in question with a small dab of paint that isn’t easy to spot unless someone knows it’s there. After repairs are complete, ask to see the old part as well as the purchase order for the new one. Match the new part with the info in the receipt. If there is paint on this part, it was a scam.
Manic maintenance
Always follow manufacturer suggested intervals for standard maintenance. This can be found in your owner's manual. The manufacturers know your vehicle model better than you or anyone else will, so their recommended specs are authoritative. If a mechanic tries to get you to agree to an oil change, flush or other repair sooner than you might actually need it, you’ll have reason for suspicion. Just to be safe, bring your owner’s manual with you when you take your car in for maintenance or repair.
Don't pay for guesswork
This is for people who didn't have the problem fixed by their mechanic. Hold your mechanic to a high standard. If they failed to fix it the first time, demand a refund. If these problems continue, get a new mechanic.
Think about your dipstick
Before going in for repairs, check your dipstick. Do this, not just because you want an accurate reading of your engine’s oil level, but because this will remind you to watch for an old nickel-and-dime trick some mechanics use. They will get a lower reading by only inserting the dipstick part way. Sure, it may only be $5 or $10, but that’s something. Also, watch for the detached spark plug trick – it might just save you from expensive and unnecessary engine exploratory work. Don't get the power steering flush either. According to WalletPop, no auto manufacturer recommends this service.
Seems doubled over with labor
Repair jobs lead to other repair jobs sometimes. Mechanics will double the labor charge sometimes. You should pay the labor cost you were quoted. The mechanic still needs to make money off their time if the job is big. Communicate with your mechanics and make sure they spell out whether additional labor charges will be incurred before you give your consent to proceed.
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WalletPop
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