Written by: Sindi Wasserberg Lash
There’s a trust factor issue related to so many industries in this country (i.e., health care) and the automotive repair industry is high on the list. According to 3 consumer protection agencies, the category most complained about was the automotive industry, specifically, faulty repairs. What is it about the auto repair and service industry that keeps getting a bad rap? Is it due to the worsening economy where more mechanics are engaging in shady practices? Perhaps. But weren't mechanics ripping off consumers during better economic times of yore?
There’s a trust factor issue related to so many industries in this country (i.e., health care) and the automotive repair industry is high on the list. According to 3 consumer protection agencies, the category most complained about was the automotive industry, specifically, faulty repairs. What is it about the auto repair and service industry that keeps getting a bad rap? Is it due to the worsening economy where more mechanics are engaging in shady practices? Perhaps. But weren't mechanics ripping off consumers during better economic times of yore?
I remember a couple of years ago, one of the major TV networks did a piece where consumers went undercover to several different “auto repair” shops. Hidden cameras were placed under the hood. The unfortunate but obvious conclusion was that the majority of the mechanics were trying to scam the consumer.
Unfortunately, the lack of consumer confidence in the auto repair industry has been around for ages. Most people believe that mechanics will go out of their way to rip you off and provide services your car never needed in the first place. Not all mechanics or car maintenance people are untrustworthy. You just gotta do your due diligence before you head out the door.
Frequently I hear, “Where should I take my car for an oil change; should I go back to the dealership or go to my local lube shop?” or “ I need new tires, should I pay a visit to the local tire shop or to the mega discount chain?”. It depends.
Most of us rely on word of mouth by our family or friends. Others rely on online reviews from Yelp or Angies List. But are these reviews legit or are they written by friends and/or family members of the mechanic and/or establishment? Sometimes it’s hard to tell.
For this reason, I decided to consult with Jim Therrien, a Service Advisor (for over 10 years) at a major auto dealership in Orange County, California. Jim offers the following CAVEAT EMPTOR advice …
1) Check for certifications and licenses that should be on display (by ASE, AAA, state).
2) Check for cleanliness of the facility. Is it a clean garage or are the floors littered with rags and empty oil cans?
3) When buying new tires, ask when the tires were manufactured (oops, I didn’t even do that last summer). There’s a chance I just bought 4 year old treads!
4) Ask questions: How long have you been in business? What does the warranty include and how long is it good for? How old is your equipment? You don’t want to go to a place that says, “We don’t need fancy equipment”. Don’t be shy.
5) Be suspicious if a mechanic recommends a coolant and/or power steering flush. Most cars have fluid that’s designed to go 100K miles.
6) NEVER sign a blank authorization form. This is a no-brainer. Get specific information written and quoted for each job and have the mechanic/proprietor sign before you do.
7) If you need work on catalytic converters or emissions parts, check with your dealer first because these two areas are usually covered under your warranty.
8) You might want to turn around and walk out the door if the mechanic says to you, “I wouldn’t drive this car for another mile”. This comment is pretty extreme and meant to alarm you into guilt.
While trying to further broaden my CHIX AND CARZ blogging career, I happily stumbled upon AskPatty.com. You’re probably wondering what the heck that has to do with the auto repair industry. It has EVERYTHING (well, almost everything) to do with this industry. This highly informative website is one that “offers design, training and certification to automotive retail and service centers on how to attract, sell, retain and increase loyalty with women customers”.
“Women can find an Ask Patty certified female-friendly auto dealer, tire dealer, collision center, auto service and repair centers using the location search” on the front page. I used this handy search feature twice, using both my current zip code (in Orange County, CA) and also my previous zip code (Chicago, IL). Both search results came up with plenty of options. I’m almost due for an oil change, so I’m definitely going to use the AskPatty.com’s certified center, it's one that I can trust.
Jody DeVere, the CEO of AskPatty.com, not only is a car care expert, but she’s also a social media marketing-to-women expert with over 25 years experience under her belt. She truly is a champion for women in the automotive industry as well as a champion for the female automotive consumer. Bravo Jody!
Now, to the person who asked me if they should take their 5 year old Jeep Grand Cherokee in for a look-see because the engine light had been illuminated for over 2 weeks, I say yes, that’s a pretty good idea. Because now you’re armed with automotive intelligence.
