Date: Sun, 3 Sep 2000 12:56:50 EDT
Reply-To: EUROMOG@AOL.COM
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: John Wessels <EUROMOG@AOL.COM>
Subject: Finding a Good Repair Shop
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
Hello Volks,
It amazes me this list. There is so much available information and knowledge
exchanged on a daily basis. From what tires to buy to how to remedy the loss
of power and bucking after driving for two hours.
However the one topic that many can't seem to master is selecting a good
repair shop. I see a few people ask who is decent in their area. I also know
that people tend to complain rather than praise.
Many tend to get on the telephone and the only question they ask is "how
much?". Or they may ask "what is your labor rate." Vary rarely do they take
the time to interview a repair shop personally. The following are some
procedures and questions you should ask when your car needs repair.
First call the prospective shop and ask for a time that you may come by to
talk about getting some needed repairs done. Go to the shop personally and
take a look around.
What is the shape of the cars in the parking lot?
Be careful if the lot is full of cars that seem to be growing roots. Your car
may end up being one these. Many fall for the trap that if the parking lot is
full this place must be good. The full parking lot may be caused by poor
scheduling and inability to get the work done in a timely manner.
What does the building look like on the outside?
Is it clean and appealing? If a business owner takes pride in his work it is
usually reflected in the appearance of his business.
What does the customer waiting area look like?
Is it clean and comfortable? This will show how much the business cares about
you as a customer.
What does the work area look like?
Is it clean and well organized? Again boils down to pride and care in work.
Does the shop appear to be well equipped to handle your needs?
Do you see newer equipment? Do they have lifts? Do they have modern
diagnostic equipment to handle your tough to solve problems?
Ask about the experience and training of the shop owner and the technicians
who will be doing the repairs.
How many years on VW's or German cars? Are they ASE certified in the area
that they will be performing the repair? How committed are they to furthering
their education and training?
Is the owner or service writer friendly? Do you feel that you can communicate
with them so that you are BOTH under the same level of understanding?
This is where most transactions fall apart. Lack of communication. It is the
shops job to educate you so that you know what they are talking about. It is
YOUR responsibility to ask questions when you don't understand.
Now for the most important question.
Do you trust and feel comfortable with the people wish to start a business
relationship with?
This just boils down to personalities and gut instinct. Do you trust the
people or not? If you don't, go elsewhere. You will be doing both you and the
shop owner a favor.
If you are comfortable with all the above then schedule the work. If not keep
looking. Just because your friend thought a certain shop was great doesn't
guarantee that you will think the same.
When the repair order is written ask for an estimate. Here in CA it is the
law, but in other states it is very lax. Many times an initial inspection or
diagnosis may have to be quoted at first. Then a revised estimate can be
given when the shop knows exactly what needs to be done. Most shops now
charge for diagnoses and this is normal. Guess work and throwing parts at a
problem is NOT what you want.
If you don't have a problem now, now is the time to establish a relationship
with someone you can trust. It is much easier to make decisions when you are
not under pressure and stress because your car is broke down. Then when you
do have a problem your thoughtful and careful research is done. Odds are you
will then end up with a satisfactory repair.
John Wessels
European Motorsport
Livermore, CA
http://www.euromog.com
