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(973)529-836083 State Route 23 NorthHamburg, NJ 07419

Finding a mechanic or auto repair shop you can trust is crucial for keeping your car in good
condition and avoiding unnecessary expenses. But how do you make sure you’re choosing the
right one? Asking the right questions can reveal a lot about a shop’s professionalism,
transparency, and commitment to quality service. Here’s a list of essential questions to ask
when searching for your next mechanic or repair shop.

1. Are Your Technicians Certified?
Why It Matters: Certifications like ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) or
manufacturer-specific training indicate that the technicians have the skills and knowledge to
work on your vehicle.
-Follow-Up Question: Do your technicians specialize in certain brands or repairs?


2. Do You Provide Written Estimates?
Why It Matters: A reputable shop will offer a detailed written estimate before beginning any
work. This shows they are transparent about costs and helps you avoid surprise charges.-
-Follow-Up Question: How do you handle situations where additional repairs are
needed beyond the estimate?

3. What Warranties Do You Offer on Parts and Labor?
Why It Matters: A solid warranty on parts and labor shows that a shop stands behind their
work. Look for a warranty of at least 12 months or 12,000 miles.
-Follow-Up Question: Is the warranty nationwide or limited to your shop?

4. Do You Use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or Aftermarket
Parts?
Why It Matters: Understanding whether a shop uses OEM or aftermarket parts can help you
weigh the quality versus the cost of the repair.

- Follow-Up Question: Can I choose between OEM and aftermarket parts for my repair?

5. How Do You Communicate With Customers?
Why It Matters: Clear and regular communication is essential. Find out if they’ll call, text, or
email updates on your vehicle’s progress.
- Follow-Up Question: Will I receive photos, videos, or detailed explanations of the
repairs needed?

6. What Types of Vehicles Do You Work On?
Why It Matters: Some shops specialize in certain types of vehicles, such as imports, trucks, or
hybrids. Ensure they have experience with your car’s make and model.
- Follow-Up Question: Do you have specialized equipment for my vehicle’s brand?

7. Can I See Reviews or References?
Why It Matters: Positive reviews and references from other customers provide insight into the
shop’s reputation. A trustworthy shop will happily point you to testimonials.
- Follow-Up Question: Do you have customers who’ve used your shop for many years?

8. How Do You Handle Maintenance Versus Repairs?
Why It Matters: A good shop will differentiate between routine maintenance (e.g., oil changes,
brake pads) and repairs (e.g., engine issues, transmission work). This ensures they’re not
upselling unnecessary services.
- Follow-Up Question: Do you offer maintenance plans or reminders for routine
services?

9. Do You Have Loaner Cars or Shuttle Services?
Why It Matters: Convenience can make a big difference. A shop offering loaner cars, shuttle
service, or after-hours drop-off shows they care about customer experience.
- Follow-Up Question: Are there any fees for using these services?

10. How Do You Price Repairs?
Why It Matters: Pricing transparency is a must. Find out if they use a flat-rate pricing guide or
charge hourly for labor.
- Follow-Up Question: Do you price-match or offer discounts for recurring customers?

11. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Why It Matters: Longevity in the business often indicates a solid reputation and consistent
service quality.
- Follow-Up Question: Have you always been at this location?

12. Do You Offer Roadside Assistance?
Why It Matters: Some shops provide perks like free or discounted roadside assistance for their
customers, which adds value to their service.
- Follow-Up Question: What does your roadside assistance package include?

13. Can I Tour Your Shop?
Why It Matters: A clean, organized shop is often a sign of professionalism. A reputable
mechanic will have no problem showing you around.
- Follow-Up Question: Can I meet the technician who will work on my car?

14. What Are Your Hours of Operation?

Why It Matters: Understanding the shop’s availability ensures their schedule aligns with yours.
Some shops offer extended hours or weekend appointments.
- Follow-Up Question: Do you have emergency repair services?

15. How Do You Handle Customer Complaints?
Why It Matters: No shop is perfect, but how they handle mistakes says a lot about their
commitment to customer service.
- Follow-Up Question: Have you ever had to resolve a serious customer complaint? If
so, how did you handle it?SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT NOWAsking the right questions is key to finding a mechanic or repair shop that’s not only competent
but also values transparency and customer satisfaction. Take the time to vet potential shops and
pay attention to how they respond. A trustworthy shop will be happy to answer your questions
and help you feel confident in your decision.
By being proactive and informed, you can find a repair shop that becomes a reliable partner in
keeping your vehicle safe and running smoothly for years to come!

Bill DeBoer

Written by Bill DeBoer

William J. DeBoer is the Visionary at DeBoer’s Auto. As the company’s CEO, Bill has been responsible for bringing innovations in daily operations to the full-service, high-tech auto repair facility for 20+ years. Passionate about computers from an early age, Bill’s interest in technology gravitated to cars while he was in college. By obtaining a Certificate in Automotive Technology followed by a B.S. in Business Management from Penn State, Bill was able to fuse his interests into a car technology specialization and join the family business shortly thereafter.