How to Choose an Auto Repair Shop
Before you make an appointment with an auto repair shop, get an estimate. Be sure the estimate includes a full description of the repairs, including the replacement parts. Make sure to look for the quality of the replacement parts. The invoice should also show you what the odometer was reading when you left the vehicle for repair, and when you were promised to receive the car. You can also compare the written estimate with the final invoice, if possible.
To choose an auto repair shop, do not forget to check the license status. Insurers Bureau’s website has a list of registered repair shops. The shop’s license status can also be verified by calling the DOS. Be sure to choose a shop that honors warranties. It is also a good idea to choose a shop that offers customer satisfaction. This way, you will know if the repair work is up to par.
Another important item to check is the air filter and fuel filter. These should be replaced periodically and more often in dusty areas. You should also change your fuel filter as recommended by your car’s manufacturer. Transmission fluid and filter should also be changed every 15,000 to 18,000 miles to protect the internal components of the transmission. A jack and spare tire should be available. Taking your vehicle to an auto repair shop for regular maintenance is a smart way to avoid costly repairs.
A family-owned business, L&M Foreign Cars in Brooklyn has been serving the city’s drivers for over twenty years. Their technicians specialize in repairing foreign vehicles, including BMWs, Audis, Volkswagens, Mini Coopers, Land Rovers, Mercedes, and Audis. They also offer brake repairs, suspension, engine work, and more. They are ASE certified, and the co-founder is one of only five L2 master technicians in the country.
The best way to avoid paying too much for a part that is not original is to shop for remanufactured or new parts. Remanufactured parts are made from a used vehicle and are similar to the original one in quality. Some manufacturers have a warranty on replacement parts, but not the labor. Salvaged parts are used when they are no longer available from the original manufacturer, but often aren’t as reliable as new.
The smell of burned toast may indicate an electrical short or burning insulation. A rotten egg smell, on the other hand, means an emissions control device or catalytic converter problem. And finally, a thick oily fluid is usually a sign of a leak or burning oil. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s probably time to take your car to a local auto repair shop. While the smell of gasoline may be mild, it may also indicate a flooded engine or a fuel system leak.
If you don’t want to spend a large amount of money on a degree, you can attend an accredited auto repair program that offers hands-on training. The LWTech program is designed to help you develop high-tech professional skills in a highly sought-after industry. This means that you can expect fast employment and an increasing income as a technician. You will also have the chance to learn how to repair different models and brands, which are very important for the current job market.