Whether it’s a simple, routine maintenance, or your car has broken down and needs repaired, bringing it to a professional mechanic both makes life easier and ensures the job will be done right. Or at least it should. Not all mechanics are created equal, and you want to make sure the one servicing your car is going to do it right.

Of course, a mechanic may seem convincing when you talk to them, but until you actually see and experience the results of their work, it’s difficult to tell whether they’re being completely honest or not. Naturally, that can be discomforting. So to make things easier, here is a brief list of seven questions you should ask your mechanic before allowing them to get started on implementing any repair on your car.

What’s Wrong With My Car?

The first question should be as straightforward as possible. After they’ve had an opportunity to look at your car and figure out what the problem is, you should be able to ask them what they’ve found. They should be able to give you a detailed answer. For example, if your car is overheating they should be able to say “there’s a hole in your radiator” if that’s the problem, as opposed to saying “there’s probably something going on with your radiator.”

What Caused the Problem?

Similar to the last question, you should be able to ask your mechanic what caused the problem. Why is there a hole in your radiator? This will help you prevent similar issues in the future.

What Is Your Suggested Repair?

The next question you should ask your mechanic has to do with what their plan is for fixing your car. What do they think will resolve the problem? Does the plan seem reasonable? Ask about all potential routes, and have your mechanic explain each solution thoroughly. 

How Long Will the Repair Take?

This is an important question for a number of reasons: how long can you expect to be without your car? Will your mechanic have to keep it overnight? Do they have to wait on parts or supplies to show up to finish the job? Are those replacement parts local or do they have to have them shipped? This will also have an impact on how much you can expect to spend on labor for the project.

Do You Include a Vehicle Inspection?

Sometimes the problem you’re dealing with isn’t the only issue your car has. And unless that problem has started showing some symptoms, you’re more than likely completely unaware. A good mechanic will also conduct an inspection of your vehicle to spot any other potential serious problems that your vehicle may have and then tell you about them before getting the work started. This will give you the opportunity to have them fix these other issues as well so you don’t have to worry about the problem rearing its head later.

When Can I Pick Up My Car?

Do you know when you’ll be able to come by to pick up your vehicle? Is your mechanic open on weekends? Do they offer some form of after-hours pickup? Do they charge overnight storage fees if you’re unable to come get your car the same day it’s done? These are important questions to ask because some mechanics (not us!) will charge you a storage fee if you aren’t able to come pick up your car the same day it’s done. Others will generally give you 24 to 48 hours to pick it up. Some may not be open to allow you to pick up your car on weekends or holidays. These are all important things to know so you can make sure you get your car back and aren’t stuck without it for longer than you need to be.

About Christian Brothers Automotive

When your car needs serviced and you need a mechanic you can trust, turn to the experts at Christian Brothers Automotive. For the last three decades, we’ve been offering the best customer service available and a complete range of car care, maintenance, and repair services. We service all makes and models of vehicles, so you can be confident that we’ll get your problem resolved and get you back on the road quickly!