What’s the best way to obtain a fair estimate for car repairs? You should make a check list so that you can protect yourself from scams or mark-ups. Even legitimate repair shops will differ on their repair estimates, but the core items you need fixed should be the same.

1. Get more than one estimate. Unless you have a mechanic that you work with and trust, consider getting several estimates for the job. If your car is in an collision accident, more than likely your insurance company will ask you to get three estimates. If you are paying for car repairs out of pocket you should definitely do the same. A lot of times different mechanics will charge different prices even for the same problem. They might have different rates, feel that they need to repair things that are potentially going to break, or some mechanics are dishonest and will charge you for services that do not need to be performed.

2. Check the BBB – If you are unfamiliar with a repair shop check with the Better Business Bureau before taking your car to a shop and find out whether they’re reputable.

3. Make sure you get a itemized estimate and not just one price for the whole job. – If all of the services are not listed in the estimate, then the mechanic could deny that you ever talked about them. Make sure that they are listed very clearly in the estimate in as much detail as possible.  For instance, if a part has to be new and not refurbished, then this should be indicated. As well when you are comparing estimates you will have more leverage to negotiate if one mechanic is charging a lot less for one service than the other.

4. Make sure the price is very clearly listed – The price should be very clear. Shops will charge for parts and labor so make sure that the estimate is be broken down and any dispoal fees are included so that when the final bill comes there are no surprises.  That way if there is a problem with something, then you will know the exact portion that it is.  The estimate should also state what will be done in the case that the price might be higher.  Make sure that if something comes up during the repair that the mechanic has to call you before making non-estimated repairs.

5. Make sure you read everything and ask questions if it seems unclear – There may be small print on the estimate, but it is still important to read everything, especially before you sign anything. You never know what someone might try to put in there such as an extra fee.

6. Get a copy of the estimate – Most mechanics will give you a copy of the estimate and keep one for themselves.  Make sure that you get your copy.  You do not want to come back only to suspect that the estimate has been altered.

7. See if anything is covered by your warranty – If you are still under your car’s manufacturer auto warranty, find out if anything is covered and if the shop is authorized to do warranty repairs. If you have an extended service plan have the shop call to authorize the repairs with your administrator and then obtain a new estimate with the covered repairs included.

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Filed under: Auto News, Car News, Vehicle Maintenance, Vehicle repairs, Warranty Direct

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