How to Find A Good Auto Repair Shop

* Look for a repair facility before you need one; you can make better decisions when you are not rushed. * Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. * Consult local consumer organizations about the reputation of the shop; inquire about the number, nature and resolution of complaints. * Do not choose a shop based only on a convenient location. * Look for a tidy, well-organized facility with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays. * Ask if the shop usually handles your vehicle make and model or type of repair. Some facilities specialize. * Look for signs of technician competence. The customer area should display trade-school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work and ASE certifications - a national standard of technician competence. * Look for community-service awards, plaques for civic involvement, customer-service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, etc. * Professionally run establishments will have a courteous, helpful staff. The manager, service writer or technician should be willing to answer your questions. * Labor rates, fees for testing and diagnostic work, guarantees, methods of payment, etc., should be posted. * Feel free to ask for the names of a few customers as references. Call them. * Start with a minor job. Reward good service with repeat business and more complex work.