Why do mechanics have a bad reputation?

Mechanics get a bad reputation because there are a lot of dishonest mechanics out there. We see it all the time when customers bring their cars in for a second opinion. The radiator was leaking and our estimate for the repair was $344 – compare that to the $650 the price quoted by the car care franchise.

Do mechanics really rip people off?

One seasoned auto mechanic is warning consumers to be well-versed in how a car works to avoid being ripped off at the auto repair shop. He said some mechanics may try to squeeze more money out of customers by doing unnecessary repairs.

Is it easy to find a good mechanic?

Either way, it’s not easy to find a good, honest mechanic. To help you do just that, Fatherly reached out to Amy Mattinat, owner of the award-winning auto repair shop Auto Craftsmen in Montpelier, Vermont, for her top tips in finding a reputable mechanic you’ll want to hold on to for life. Make sure they’re rated.

Should you go to the local auto repair shop for maintenance?

Nearly everyone has gone to the local shop for routine auto maintenance only to drive away after paying a lot more in unexpected charges. Most mechanics are honest, hardworking people who only want to help you by pointing out problems you may not know about.

Why do I keep going to the same mechanic for repairs?

If you keep going back to your mechanic for the same repair, it could be a sign that your mechanic did a bad job (and doesn’t want to own up to it) or used shoddy parts or bad repair procedures. Get a second opinion and definitely get your next repair somewhere else if you’re not getting 100\% free repairs for repeat issues.

Should you hire a new mechanic?

That’s something a good mechanic is weighing against the cost of a repair. If the amount of repair estimate is more than the value of the car, and they don’t mention it, you should find a new mechanic. “This is a relationship business,” says Mattinat.