Consumers' Checkbook tips on auto repair

Modern cars need little maintenance and most people are using the dealer.  If you want to save money and help out a local business, try an independent auto repair shop!  I like the recommendations below and wanted to share them with you. 
CHECKBOOK recommends you do the following to help improve your auto repair results:

  • Whenever possible, compare prices, especially for big repairs. CHECKBOOK found some shops charge more than three times as much as their nearby competitors for the same work.
  • Deal with the shop in a business-like way, and be especially thorough in the first few years, while you are getting acquainted.
  • Write down a detailed description of the car's symptoms, give a copy to the shop, and keep a copy.
  • If possible, talk directly to the repair technician who will be working on the car.
  • Either get a written estimate in advance or write on the repair ticket that no work is to be done without the customer's approval based on a written estimate. Be sure a list of symptoms is attached to the estimate and referred to in the estimate.
  • Before paying, request an invoice detailing the parts and labor the shop has provided.
  • Pay by credit card. If you have a problem, you can protest the charge with your card issuer.
  • If the car is still not right after it is picked up, notify the shop in writing immediately.

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