GOBankingRates works with many financial advertisers to showcase their products and services to our audiences.

These brands compensate us to advertise their products in ads across our site.

This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site.

Customer and automotive technician talking in a workshop stock photo

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information.

you could read more about oureditorial guidelinesand our products and servicesreview methodology.

Thats when the stress kicks in along with the potential for an expensive mistake.

facebook sharing button

In late 2024,J.D.

Tosave money, frugal car owners ask the right questions before signing off on major repairs.

GOBankingRates spoke with Bill Nalu, owner ofInterstate Auto Care, to find out what those questions should be.

twitter sharing button

Here are eight questions Nalu recommended frugal drivers ask their mechanics before getting major repairs done.

Also seefive signs you need a second opinion before getting a major car repair.

How Long Has the Shop Been in Business?

linkedin sharing button

Is the Shop a Franchise or Family-Owned?

Franchise shops follow corporate pricing and often have higher overheads, which can mean higher costs to the customer.

Are the Technicians Certified?

email sharing button

Some states dont require certification, so its worth asking.

Whats the Average Tenure of Employees?

Long-term employees usually understand the needs of customers more, leading tobetter all-round service.

How Long Is the Warranty, and Does It Cover Nationwide?

A weak warranty often means a shop doesnt stand behind its work.

Is Alternative Transportation Available?

Some shops offerfree loaner carsor discounted rentals, which can make a multiday repair much more affordable.

How Familiar Is the Shop With the Vehicles Make and Model?

A mechanic unfamiliar with a car might take longer to diagnose and repair it meaning more labor costs.

Shops that regularly work on a particular make can get the job done faster and more efficiently.

How Many Similar Repairs Have Been Done on This Model?

More From GOBankingRates

Share This Article:

The Latest inSaving Money