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Drive Without Being Driven Crazy

Trust Your Mechanic The Boy Scouts know something about auto repair, because the best way to avoid rip-offs is to be prepared. The best sources for mechanics are friends, family and other people you trust. Compare warranty policies on repairs. Make sure the shop will honor your vehicle's warranty. Look for shops that display various certifications--like an Automotive Service Excellence seal. Certification indicates that some or all of the technicians meet basic standards of knowledge and competence in specific technical areas. Make sure the certifications are current, but remember that certification alone is no guarantee of good or honest work. As in your body, many parts in your vehicle are interrelated. Ignoring maintenance can lead to trouble. Neglecting even simple routine maintenance, such as changing the oil or checking the coolant, can lead to poor fuel economy, unreliability or costly breakdowns. [ San Jose | Metroactive Central | Archives ]