How Not to Get Screwed Over by Your Mechanic
Your owner’s manual, the internet, and some common sense all go a long way.
According to stereotypes, mechanics exist to prey on those of us not mechanically inclined, try to scare the heck out of us, sell us parts and fluids and fixes we don’t need, and screw with us about how much it’ll cost and how much longer they’ll need our car for — all so that our ride doesn’t, like, spontaneously explode or fall apart.
But how bad are mechanics, really? How can you tell if you’re being messed with? And what can you do if you think you are? Alongside John Ibbotson, the chief mechanic for Consumer Reports who handles everything automotive for the legendary product-testing magazine, we’re going to try and find some (honest!) answers.
On a scale from “1” to “Congressman,” how dishonest, crooked and opportunistic is the average mechanic?
“In general, most garages and shops are honest,” says Ibbotson. “But there’s honesty, and there’s upselling — which isn’t necessarily being dishonest, but doing stuff that would possibly benefit the car, but also benefit their pockets.” Think about power-steering fluid flushes, transmission flushes or brake flushes: Yes, they could be good for your car, but that doesn’t mean it necessarily needs them. Or maybe they’ll tell you your brake pads are worn down and you need them replaced right now, when you could, in fact, get a few more months out of them.
But how bad are mechanics, really? How can you tell if you’re being messed with? And what can you do if you think you are? Alongside John Ibbotson, the chief mechanic for Consumer Reports who handles everything automotive for the legendary product-testing magazine, we’re going to try and find some (honest!) answers.
On a scale from “1” to “Congressman,” how dishonest, crooked and opportunistic is the average mechanic?
“In general, most garages and shops are honest,” says Ibbotson. “But there’s honesty, and there’s upselling — which isn’t necessarily being dishonest, but doing stuff that would possibly benefit the car, but also benefit their pockets.” Think about power-steering fluid flushes, transmission flushes or brake flushes: Yes, they could be good for your car, but that doesn’t mean it necessarily needs them. Or maybe they’ll tell you your brake pads are worn down and you need them replaced right now, when you could, in fact, get a few more months out of them.
Your blog is awfully appealing. I am contented with your post. I regularly read your blog and its very helpful. If you are looking for the best Injector Carbon Cleaner, then visit Shenzhen Awesome Industrial Co.Ltd. Thanks! I enjoyed this blog post.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post. your post about car fixing solution is very well written and unique. Thank you for sharing this post here. Mechanics Espom
ReplyDeleteI am very thankful to you for sharing this best knowledge with us. This information is helpful for everyone. So please always share this kind of knowledge with everyone. Thanks. Read more info about Mazda 6 timing chain
ReplyDelete