A Guide to Finding a Mechanic Who Does Brake Repair
Your life depends on your brakes. Getting brake repair done at a good mechanics shop is essential. If you have just moved to the area and you do not have a regular mechanic yet, then finding a good mechanic can be hard and stressful. Here are a few tips for locating a mechanic who specializes in brake repair.
Your first option is to choose a national chain, like Midas or Meineke, that does brake repair. National chains usually have reasonably good mechanics working for them. Because chains space their branches to cover the area, you are likely to be within a short drive or tow of a branch if you need more repairs, and the warranty on any repairs the chain does will allow you to get free followup repairs at any branch in the country. Also, because national chains’ mechanic shops are usually large and efficient, you will probably be seen quickly and your repairs will be done in less time than it might take a smaller shop. The premium you pay for faster service is a higher bill.
The second option is to find an independent shop in your area. Independent shops may take a little longer to do your repairs because they may need to order more parts and may have fewer mechanics available to do the work. They also have more variable quality than a national chain: You could find someone brilliant, or you could find a shyster. However, a little research will make it far more likely that you will find an excellent independent mechanic.
How do you find a truly good mechanic? Unfortunately, there’s no one way, no central clearinghouse for information on mechanics’ shops. Find friends, family, and coworkers who needed the same kind of brake repair, and get recommendations from them. Find out whether anyone has complained about the shop online or filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Check whether the shop has been accredited by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and whether the mechanics are National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. And go with your gut: When you call the shop, can you reach someone, or do they let the phone ring? Does the mechanic you speak with sound sincere, or does he or she sound shady or overconfident? If you are inexperienced at car repair, is the mechanic respectful or condescending?
Get information from as many sources as you can before you pick a shop to do your brake repair. Whether you take your car to an independent shop or to a chain, your life and the lives of everyone around you depends upon the mechanic you pick to repair your brakes.