How to avoid overpaying
We’ve all heard the story about the little old lady who takes her car in for a service and gets royally overcharged. An urban myth? Maybe. But if you’re not a mechanic, it’s hard to know what you should or shouldn’t pay for your service or repair.
While most mechanics are honest people who takes their clients safety and welfare seriously, it’s nice to know you’re paying the goldilocks amount – just right!
So, can you avoid overpaying your mechanic? Absolutely, by following these handy tips from TIMRA Mechanical, your mobile mechanic of choice in Ipswich.
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No matter what the purchase, the “get three quotes” philosophy is always a sound one, just so you can be sure you’re not paying more than you should. The same goes with mechanics. Don’t just get a quote from your usual bricks and mortar outfit – try a mobile mechanic too! Best of all … they’ll come to you.
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Some mechanics will provide high-level quotes, without the detail required to adequately assess the work that needs to be done and cost required to do it. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of your quote so you can compare apples with apples between mechanics.
Also, even after you have selected a mechanic, ask them to call and seek permission for any additional costs that may be required along the way. No one likes nasty surprises when they’re handed the invoice!
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Service your car at the recommended intervals, as per the log-book and warranty as they are suggested to keep your car in top condition, and will help you to avoid additional costs associated with missed services.
It’s also a good idea to read your owner’s manual so that you know what is expected at each service.
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Many people think that if their car is under warranty, their only choice is to have it serviced with the manufacturer. Wrong.
If you are using OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or OEM equivalent parts, your warranty will be valid. This means that you can shop around for the best quote or even use your trusted local mechanic (as long as they can access to the parts required). Make sure you ask the right questions and let them know that you’re after a log-book service that won’t breach the warranty conditions.
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Sometimes, during a service or repair, an unexpected cost will pop up. This generally comes with the “Is this really necessary?” question from the car owner.
If you have shopped around and have gone with a mechanic you trust, you can rest assured that they won’t make unnecessary recommendations. Your loyalty and repeat business is worth more to them than ripping you off a few extra dollars for a part that’s not required.
That said, if a major part needs replacing, you can ask your mechanic to show you the part before they dispose of it for a little extra peace of mind.
And ask for a fully itemised report of all the work they have undertaken!
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The best way to avoid that “have I been ripped off feeling” is to find a mechanic you know you can trust and stick with them.
Ask for recommendations from family and friends, check out their reviews online, and ask them to explain everything to you in easy to understand English, not mechanic speak.
