Car Repair Prices – Holding Your Repair Shop Accountable
One of the most frustrating aspects of auto repair is wondering whether or not your car repair prices are fair. Few have access to, or the understanding of repair billing, and so have to rely 
on what the repair shop says. Here are a few tips that will help hold your mechanic accountable, lesson the chances for excess charges, and allow you to save a little money.
1) When you’re told a repair will cost $500, for example, ask for a complete break down of the parts and labor in writing. You need this data so you at least have something. It also serves as a warning that you’re a discerning customer. Don’t just agree when your mechanic says ”yeah – that’ll run ya bout $500 bucks or so. There can be a lot of money hidden in “so.”
2) Many of today’s repair shops are turning to “job pricing.” That is, the job pays X, regardless of parts or labor. Job pricing is an extremely effective and fast way to sell auto repair. It’s not necessarliy bad, provided the methodology that arrived at the job price is fair – the reality is that it’s usually not. Shops have labor rates and they bill parts – make sure you understand exactly what you’re paying for.
3) When you’re told a certain amount of money will fix your car, ensure that your repair shop delivers. In other words, if you had a particular issue where your car made a noise at such and such a speed on bumpy roads, make sure the noise is gone. Don’t just drive home assuming they fixed it right the first time – we have evidence that shows you only have a 30% chance of getting your car fixed right the first time. If you still have the problem – notify your shop ASAP.
4) Car repair prices are inflated – plain and simple. You almost always have room to negotiate. If you’re having multiple repairs and services (e.g., oil change, brakes, exhaust) ask for a bulk discount. If the auto repair estimate is $780, tell them you have a deal at $680 – you’ll be surprised how willing they’ll be to work with you.
Repair shops have little accountability. In the end, it’s up to you.
I hope this helps…
By Ted
The article is very good. Write please more!
Let’s talk about when you should look for a mechanic, and when you should just
use the service shop at the car dealer. In general, most cars that are still under
warranty should be looked at by the dealer shop if there’s any mechanical problem
with the car.
Hi This Is Richard,
There are probably more than a few Auto Mechanic shop near where you live in Arlington Virginia and we are the provide best mechanic shop near you .
Thanking you.
Yes – great topic! Thank you for your note… More @ http://www.repairtrust.com/articles_dealer_locals.html
It is a very nice and good post. Keep up the good work.