Watch out for these potential auto mechanic scams

When you take your vehicle to an auto mechanic, you should have reasonable assurance that they are reputable and trustworthy. Researching a mechanic ahead of time via AAA or other industry resources helps. However, being prepared with knowledge of some of the car repair tricks of those mechanics can help you avoid being scammed. Here are just a few things to look for, and none of them need anything more than some basic automotive knowledge. Thanks to WalletPop for giving us some great ideas.

Source for this article: Watch out for these potential auto mechanic scams By Personal Money Store

Auto mechanic scam of spit and polish

Auto mechanic scams depend on a customer's lack of knowledge. A mechanic may say that a part needs to be replaced, but the reality is that they may remove it, clean it up, then simply put it back on the car so that it looks brand new. Easily removed parts like batteries, oil filters and radiators are common targets. A variation on this scam can be that the mechanic claims they replaced your old part with a refurbished part. This means they actually did nothing. If you can take the car home first before you are going to have any repairs done, mark the part in question with a small dab of paint that isn’t easy to spot unless someone knows it’s there. After repairs are complete, ask to see the old part as well as the purchase order for the new one. Match the part and the receipt. If there is paint on this part, it was a scam.

There's manic maintenance

Follow the suggestions from manufacturers for standard maintenance. Check your owner’s manual. The manufacturers know your vehicle model better than anyone, so their recommended specs are authoritative. If a mechanic tries to get you to agree to an oil change, flush or other repair sooner than needed, you’ll can be suspicious. You should bring the manual with you to the repair.

Don't pay for guesswork

This is for people who didn't have the problem fixed by their mechanic. Hold your mechanic to a high standard. If they failed to fix it the first time, demand a refund. Try a different mechanic if problems persist.

Consider your dipstick

Before going in for repairs, check your dipstick. Do this, because you want an accurate reading of your engine’s oil level and also because this will remind you to watch for an old nickel-and-dime trick some mechanics use. By only inserting the dipstick partway, they will get a lower reading. Even if it is cheap, it is still something. Also, watch for the detached spark plug trick – it could save you from unnecessary engine exploratory work. While there, don't get new power steering. According to WalletPop, no auto manufacturer recommends this service.

With labor, doubled over

Repair jobs lead to other repair jobs sometimes. Mechanics will double the labor charge sometimes. The labor cost you were quoted is what you should pay. However, if the new job is something big, the mechanic still has to make money for his or her time. Communicate with your mechanics and make sure they spell out whether or not additional labor charges will be incurred before you give your consent to proceed.

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