Researching an Auto Repair Mechanic near Fairfax Station, VA
How to Find a Skilled Auto Repair Mechanic
Not all car shops are the same. To find a skilled, honest auto repair mechanic near Fairfax Station, VA, you need to do your research. And the best time to compare shops is well before you are confronted with an emergency repair job.
Here is a look at seven things to do to find a skilled auto repair mechanic near Fairfax Station, VA.
#1. Start Now
If you wait until your brakes aren’t working or your engine light comes on, you’ll end up going into the closest shop with an auto repair mechanic near Fairfax Station, VA. That’s not the way to find the most skilled and affordable care for your vehicle. A fear-driven decision is seldom the best one. Start your hunt for an honest mechanic today, before you need his help.
#2. Ask Your Network
The best place to get a recommendation is from neighbors, family, friends, and co-workers. Find out what shops they have used and if they would go back to them. Word-of-mouth reviews are among the best ways to select a qualified auto repair mechanic near Fairfax Station, VA, because the person has hands-on experience with the shop.
#3. Use More than Price
Price is definitely important when it comes to car repair. It can get expensive! But don’t use it as your only criterion. Look at the credentials of the mechanic, the experience he has, how long the shop has been in business, if it is clean and organized, and how well the people communicate with you. It’s like buying anything: the most expensive shop doesn’t guarantee the best service. Likewise, the least expensive may be great. Or not. You need to research and compare several criteria before making a decision.
#4. Look Up Reviews Online
Look online for reviews on Yelp, Google+, Angie’s List and other spots. You can also check the Better Business Bureau to find out if there are complaints outstanding about a shop. Check the social media accounts, like Facebook. See if the shop responds in a timely manner to problems.
#5. Find Out the Shop’s Credentials
Be sure to ask the shop you are considering for information about their experience and warranties. You have the right to know if the auto repair mechanic near Fairfax Station, VA, is ASE-certified and what type of training he has. Ask how long the shop has been in business and how many years the mechanic has been working on vehicles.
The best shops offer extended warranties and are upfront about their policies. While you are asking these questions, notice how well the shop and the mechanic communicate. Do they explain the trouble in terms that you understand? You need to do business with a mechanic that clearly explains what the trouble is and what is involved in fixing it.
#6. Ask for an Estimate in Writing
Get an estimate in writing. That way you know what services the auto repair mechanic near Fairfax Station, VA, will perform. He can’t tack on additional services without your noticing if it’s in writing. You will have a written copy for your records. This can be helpful if you continue to have trouble. If you end up taking the vehicle to another shop, the written estimate can show if the first shop misdiagnosed the trouble.
#7. Avoid Shops with Scare Tactics
If the mechanic says things like, “I wouldn’t drive this around the block,” it’s a scare tactic. If a mechanic asks you to sign a blank form that authorizes work, keep looking. If he tries to sell you something that doesn’t pertain to the current problem, you don’t want to work with him.
If a shop seems shady, it probably is. You want to choose one that is very upfront about costs, deadlines, and warranties. Make sure you understand exactly what work they will do and what they will charge. If it doesn’t make sense or you can’t get a clear-cut answer, keep looking.
Work with Professionals
The experts here at Wiygul Automotive Clinic understand cars, trucks, SUVs and motorhomes from the inside out. Each Fairfax Station, VA, auto repair mechanic at Wiygul Automotive Clinic is ASE-certified, approved by AAA and part of the Goodyear network.
Each of our mechanics constantly updates his skills, learning how to use new tools and technology. Motors and vehicles change each year, and we stay on top of the new advances. When we work on your vehicle, you get help from people who understand your particular vehicle.
Here at Wiygul Automotive Clinic, we know how costly car repairs can be. That’s why we take pride in offering competitive pricing. We also have regular special offers. You can sign up for them on our website. They will be delivered directly to your inbox. Or you can click the Special Offers tab on our site.
All our work is guaranteed. We answer all your questions completely and explain exactly what needs to be done. We are transparent in all of our dealings with customers. That’s why the community trusts us.
What’s more, we’re a member of the community, just like you. We have been serving the local community since 1996. We are proud supporters of:
- George Mason University
- T. Reed Memorial Fund
- IHFR Foundation, the In Hope Freedom Rings Scholarship program
- American Cancer Society
- Booster clubs for area high schools
- Matthew Center for Children with Special Needs
- Vehicles for Change
- Clark C. Griffith League
The team here at Wiygul Automotive Clinic handles a wide range of auto services, including:
- Tire sales, inspection, and repair
- Brake service
- Suspension and alignment
- Muffler and exhaust work
- Electrical service
- Engine repair
When you are looking for the best auto repair mechanic near Fairfax Station, VA, come to Wiygul Automotive Clinic.
