Automotive repair is now a high tech industry. Today’s cars, trucks and RV’s have more computing power than the spacecrafts used in the Apollo missions!

The “shade tree mechanic” is no more. Today’s technician is in a demanding and rapidly changing profession. To stay in a very competitive industry, a shop must be committed to investing in technology, quality service and exceptional customer relations.

The best time to check out a repair facility is before you need one

Ideally, take your vehicle in for minor service, such as an oil change or tire rotation. Use this opportunity to look over the service area, note the equipment used and talk to service personnel.

	LICENSES. Repair facilities must have a Journeyman Automotive Technician on staff at all times. Qualifications should be posted in plain sight, as should municipal and AMVIC licenses. Do not do business with a facility that is not licensed.
	APPEARANCE. A clean, well-organized facility reflects attention to detail and an effort to maintain a professional image.
	AMENITIES.  The facility should have a comfortable waiting area. Many shops now provide additional services for the convenience of customers that may be beneficial.
	EQUIPMENT. A good repair facility will have up-to-date equipment and information for a wide variety of makes and models. Some shops choose to specialize and this may limit their ability to work on all types of vehicles.
	RECOMMENDATIONS. Ask your family and friends about their experiences. Were they charged the price they were quoted? Was their vehicle ready when promised? Were they treated courteously? Were all questions about the repair answered thoroughly? Ask about the shop’s warranty. Most repair facilities will warranty their parts and labor either in writing or in shop posted announcements.

To receive the most beneficial and accurate vehicle repair, you the customer must provide the clearest and most comprehensive information possible.

You know your vehicle and will be the first to know when its performance changes. You also know your vehicle’s repair and maintenance history. The more information you can share with a repair facility, the better prepared they are to identify problems. Don’t be embarrassed to ask questions. Before you leave, be sure you understand all shop policies regarding diagnostic fees, labour rates, warranties, time lines, methods of payment and whether or not you can have the parts that were replaced.

	Labour rates vary across the province. Many factors determine a labor rate, such as:
	Cost of labour in your area.
	Types of vehicles worked on.
	The repair facility’s investment in technology.
	Skill level and certification of technicians.

	Make sure a written estimate is provided prior to letting the shop begin repairs. This should include parts and labour.
	Don’t let low prices be your first concern and avoid telephone quotes.
	If you want quality repairs with quality parts, you usually have to pay for them.

Read over your repair bill and question any information or charges that you don’t understand. Insist on description of parts, not just part numbers. The person you dealt with when you brought your vehicle in should be available to answer any questions and explain the service performed.

Arrive to pick up your vehicle at least half an hour before closing time. This allows you the opportunity to test drive your vehicle and bring it back immediately if the problem persists. If you feel that a problem is still present, ask someone from the shop to accompany you on a road test. Clearly state the correction you want and give the repair facility the chance to correct any errors or oversights.

If you are really happy, a sincere thank you note outlining the specifics of the repair is a good step in strengthening your relationship with the facility.