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- When you get your estimate, do your best to ask around and find out if it's a fair price. There are too many variables to get exact figures, but if you are quoted $400 for front brakes, and the guy down the street tells you $150, something's wrong. Find out what they do that's different. You may be paying for extra parts you don't really need.
- The average mechanic figures he/she knows a lot more about repairing cars than you do, and that may very well be true. However, anything you can do to shed doubt on that will make him/her less likely to take advantage of you.
- Don't assume if a mechanic is referred by a friend that you will automatically get a fair shake. The general way of thinking in the average shop is: Get what you can while the opportunity is there. Very few shops are actually seeking a long-term relationship with their customers. With that in mind, until such a time, this referred mechanic should be held as accountable as someone you never saw before.
- Remember: You are the boss. You are paying the bill. Be informed and don't be afraid to ask questions. If a mechanic can't take the time to explain things so you understand them, you're in the wrong shop.
- Having said all that, when you find an honest mechanic -- and they are out there -- make sure they know you will remain faithful to them. Bring a box of donuts or bake some cookies. Even a card of appreciation is welcome to someone who is constantly considered the bad guy. If one of my regulars came in and needed a simple brake light, as an example, I would often only charge for the bulb if it only took a minute or two to replace. A good relationship works two ways. Do what you can to keep up your end.
George A. Moyer is a retired mechanic and shop owner who became tired of seeing people ripped off by less-than-honest mechanics, so he wrote "Don't Let Your Mechanic Pick Your Pocket," from which the above is excerpted -- the book is small enough to fit in your glove box and includes the most common automotive problems and what they mean plus lots of practical, helpful hints. Check out www.mechanicsscam.com.