Most shop disputes come from something nobody put in writing: a price that grew, a part that was not what you expected, a warranty that turned out shorter than you thought. Take these questions to every auto repair shop you talk to, compare the answers side by side, and keep the important ones on paper.
Typical turnaround: same day to 3 days for most jobs. Ask for a realistic date on your specific job.
The Questions
- Can I get a written estimate with parts and labor listed separately before any work starts?
- What is your hourly labor rate, and is there a diagnostic fee? Is it credited toward the repair?
- Will you call me for approval if the job grows beyond the estimate?
- Are your technicians ASE certified in this kind of repair?
- Are the parts new OEM, aftermarket or rebuilt?
- What warranty do you give on parts and labor, and is it honored elsewhere?
- Do you work on my make and model often?
- Can I see or keep the old parts?
- What shop supply or environmental fees will be added?
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Tips
- Get a second estimate on any repair over a few hundred dollars.
- Ask whether a diagnostic fee is credited toward the repair if you go ahead.
- Book time with the shop rather than dropping off without notice; good shops are often booked a few days out.
Before You Approve the Work
- Get the total price, the scope, the parts or materials and the completion date in writing.
- Ask how extra work will be approved if the job grows.
- Check that the business name on the paperwork matches the one you researched.
- Pay by credit card where possible, which can give you dispute rights.