HAE’s: “Don’t be overcharged for auto repair”
4 Steps that can save you a lot of money and headache!
1) Choosing a repair shop:
*Ask friends about their experiences at a shop they may recommend
*Find a shop convenient to your work place; if this is where you spend most of your time during the day.
*Consult the telephone book
No matter how recommended the shop is “Do your homework” and go online to consumer affairs division and look for the number of disputes and how many have been settled unsatisfactory.
2) Make contact with the shop and ask:
*Do you provide a written estimate?
*Do you have certified technicians and in what areas are they certified?
*Do you offer a standard 12 months or 12,000 mile warranty?
*Does your warranty cover parts, labor and towing?
*Do you charge a diagnostic fee?
*Do you have a minimum charge?
*Do you offer to return of old parts?
*Do you charge storage if the vehicle is not picked up the same day repairs have been completed?
3) After you receive an estimate in writing:
*Tell the shop not to complete any repairs until authorized, DO NOT let them press you into saying “Yes”.
*Call other shops to see what they would charge for the same repair or find a resource such as honestautoestimates.com that can check the estimate.
*Make a call to the parts store and compare the parts price.
*If you feel that you are being treated fairly Authorize the repairs and confirm the price by saying “ I authorize this amount for these repairs”.
(For steps 2 and 3 Honestautoestimates can be a good resource to reduce time)
4) When you pick up your car:
*Go over the repairs that were completed asking about the old parts and any other issues that might cause problems later.
*Check over the invoice and look for the “warranty statement”, parts listed (Make sure they are listed as new along with part numbers), labor cost ( Make sure the hours are clearly listed or ask to have them listed)
*Write down the name of the person who has accepted your money.
*Inspect the car for any damage that did not exist before your visit and tell the manager before you leave.
Tags: auto repair, OVER CHARGED, save money