Is your car ready for its regular maintenance or are you having an issue that needs to be looked at? We have compiled a list of things for you to expect when visiting a mechanic. It’s best to be informed to avoid any mishaps, or poor service. So what should you do before you visit a mechanic, and what should you expect on the day?
Before heading to a mechanic for your car repairs you should consider the following:
1. Mechanical Trade Certificates
Firstly, you are going to want to check the Mechanics carrying out the repairs have their Mechanical Trade Certificates. To do this you can ask the service centre carrying out the repairs at the time of booking.
You can rest assured that all our Mechanics at Moranbah Discount Tyres and Mechanical hold their Mechanical Trade Certificates.
2. Go to a Regular Mechanic Shop
We suggest establishing a relationship with the one mechanic shop to do all your repairs. You then know what to expect each time, and can trust the level of service you will receive. Circumstances sometimes permit this from occurring, and in that case, do your research!
3. Shop Around and Don’t Settle
Check out each mechanic shop in your area, do not settle on the first shop you see as it may not be the best! Your friends and family may have suggestions on a mechanic they visited and had a good experience. You may also look for online review, keeping in mind that these sometimes are not the most factual representation of a service. Something else to consider is different mechanics may specialise in certain types of cars. For example, Moranbah Discount Tyres and Mechanical is a certified Isuzu Service Centre, so this would be the best option for you if you own an Isuzu. A crucial part of shopping around is comparing prices, and ensuring you get your estimate in writing! Your estimate should be an itemised list of each part required and service fees.
So you have now picked the mechanic shop you would like to carry out your repairs, based on their reputation, price, and services available for your vehicle, what should you expect to happen on the day?
1. Set Realistic Expectations
Setting realistic expectations can relate to the price of the repairs, and also the time frame in which they can be achieved. Expect to pay the going rate in your area for your parts, and labour. Keeping in mind that cheap and quick, doesn’t necessarily mean good. It’s a good idea to ask up front when dropping your car off how long it is expected to take. Even if it seems like a quick repair to you, there may be several other cars ahead of yours in the queue for that day.
2. Communicate Properly
The better you can communicate the issues with your vehicle to your mechanic, the easier it will be to diagnose and fix the problem. A good tip is to write down ahead of time, everything you have been noticing with your vehicle to avoid forgetting to mention anything on the day. Note down specific sounds, leaks and smells, shudders, shakes, and when and how these are occuring. Record how the vehicle was performing right before and after the issues, the day before, the day after. All of this information can help with a quicker and more efficient diagnosis on the day.
3. Make Yourself Available
Be sure to leave your direct phone number, and have it on you throughout the day. The mechanic may need to phone you at any time to discuss the repairs being carried out and ask for approvals before continuing work. If you cannot be reached, this will hold up the repairs and blow out the time frame that was originally set.
Do you need to visit a mechanic? Contact Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical today!
