Vehicles are expensive nowadays. This month, the average price of a car is estimated to be $45,844, which is higher by 14.5% compared to the same month last year. With prices skyrocketing, finding the right service shop for your vehicle is more important than ever.
Regular vehicle maintenance and repair are crucial. Primarily, these ensure your safety and that of your passengers. It also helps prevent more expensive repairs down the line and extends the life of your vehicle.
According to the Bureau of Transportation, the average lifespan of vehicles is 11 to 12 years. Vehicles with an internal combustion engine (ICE) can run 200,000 miles, and those with electric motors can run 300,000 miles. Keeping a vehicle for this long can save you $30,000 or more. Since these are averages, you can extend the life of your vehicle even more with excellent maintenance and repair and save a much higher amount.
But with so many vehicle service shop options available, how do you choose? There are many important factors to consider when selecting a service shop for your vehicle. Here are some crucial considerations to help you make the best decision possible.
Convenient Location
Suppose the location of your chosen service shop is inconvenient. In that case, getting your car serviced or repaired can be difficult. It may cause you to delay required maintenance tasks, which can lead to road hazards.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a service shop is its location. Consider how far you’re willing to travel for service and repair. On the other hand, if the vehicle service shop you’ve chosen based on the other crucial factors below is located far from you but offers pick-up and delivery services, then their location will not be a problem. This is the most convenient option for you.
Certified Mechanics
If your vehicle is serviced by unqualified technicians, you could be putting yourself and your passengers at risk. They could also cause more problems in your vehicle, resulting in higher expenses.
Make sure the shop you choose employs auto repair technicians certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This certification means they have passed a series of tests the organization administers. ASE Certification is one of the most widely recognized qualifications for automotive technicians.
It is even better if the technicians are also factory-trained experts with long years of experience handling your vehicle’s brand. That means they know your car or truck better and can properly diagnose problems, saving you time and money.
Excellent Reputation
You would not want to work with a shop that does not have the required licenses and insurance. This will leave you vulnerable to losses. Check that the shop has all the requirements and that it has an excellent reputation for customer service.
One way to determine the quality of service is by checking out online reviews to get an idea of what other customers have said about their experience with the shop. Google, Yelp, and Angie’s List are some great resources. Another way to gauge reputation is by looking at industry awards and associations. This can give you an idea of how the service shop stacks up against its competitors. It’s also a good idea to ask friends or family members for recommendations.
You should also visit the shop and talk to the staff. How they treat you and answer your questions can give you an idea of what to expect if you choose them. When it comes to something as important as your vehicle, you want to make sure you’re working with a reputable team of professionals.
Price, Warranty, and Complimentary Services
Of course, you would also want to consider the price. Get quotes from different service shops and compare them. But don’t just base your decision on price alone. Consider the other factors on this list as well. In general, you get what you pay for.
Also, ask about warranty options. Most service shops offer a warranty on their workmanship. Some even offer a nationwide warranty that you can use at any participating location. This is a great option if you travel often or move to a new city.
If all other factors are equal, look for the free services that a shop offers. For instance, free pick-up and delivery can save you a lot of time. Free cleaning and detailing is also a great perk.
Ensure Your Vehicle’s Safety and Long Life with the Right Service Shop
These are just some important things to look for when choosing a vehicle service shop. With so many options available, it can be hard to decide. But if you consider all the factors on this list, you can be sure to find the best service shop for your needs.
