Top 10 Tips
Finding an Honest Repair Shop

The National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA), a recognized leader in the automotive aftermarket industry since 1925, wants customers to know there are some simple measures they can take to find a reputable and highly skilled auto care technician.

1. Shop around for an auto care facility before you need repairs.  More cars are on the road than ever before, and with the average cost of a new vehicle exceeding $20,000, people are driving their cars longer.  Basic automobile maintenance is the best way to keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.
2. Ask the facility for references and follow up with calls to them.  Reputable physicians always provide a list of references to prospective new patients, and your "car doctor" should be just as forthcoming.  Don't be afraid to ask for references.  A few minutes on the phone goes a long way to ensuring you get the quality car repairs you need.
3. Ask family, friends, and co-workers to recommend a reputable shop.  Personal recommendations from friends, relatives, even perfect strangers account for 60% of all car buying decisions.  This same method should be used to find a quality care care center.
4. Ask the Better Business Bureau in your area to check a business' reliability before you have repairs.
5. Don't shop for price alone.  It's important to remember that you're not just paying for the cost of the part and the time it takes to install it, but you're also paying for the professionalism and technical expertise of the technician.
6. Insist upon a shop that is backed by a national warranty program such as the NAPA "Peace of Mind" warranty, which warranties both parts and labor for 6 months or 6,000 miles.  If you use the NAPACARD, the warranty doubles to 12 months or 12,000 miles.
7. Look for signs that the shop has the equipment needed to properly diagnose your car's problems.  Nearly all cars built since the early 80's have computer-controlled systems designed to increase engine efficiency, reduce emissions and aid in engine troubleshooting.  If a shop doesn't have the proper equipment to diagnose your car, you may be taking a risk by having it repaired there.
8. Seek a repair facility that employs ASE-certified technicians. It is not generally known that automotive technicians must undergo training and testing every five years to maintain their ASE certification.  The ASE symbol is prominently displayed by repair facilities that employ these highly skilled auto care professionals.
9. Ask if the repair facility uses brand name parts when repairing your vehicle.  Brand name parts are typically engineered to original manufacturer's quality or better and often carry warranties.
10. Choose an auto care center that provides a customer satisfaction policy. Such policies allow you peace of mind, not to mention saving you money.  Once you've selected your auto care center, a good rule of thumb is to give your technician time to do a good job for you.