When you start to notice the early signs of automotive troubles, it is only natural that you would want to find the European car service specialists that Perth residents recommend. It is important to take your vehicle to a specialist service centre that you can trust to do the right thing and look after your vehicle with expert care and efficiency. However, not all service centres uphold the same integrity, transparency and honesty that German Auto Meisters possess.
It is often the case that major faults or safety issues are identified during your annual service, and it is absolutely essential that you can trust your mechanic to advise you accordingly with any repairs they may recommend. It can be all too easy for a dishonest mechanic to recommend you unnecessary repairs or maintenance items that you simply do not need. Entrusting your vehicle with a European vehicle expert ensures that they have the know-how to correctly gauge the extent of any issues they may find and can diagnose faults accurately and efficiently. It can be very difficult to tell the difference between a genuine maintenance or repair recommendation and a dishonest exaggeration of a relatively minor and simple repair.
Charging For Excessive Labour – Mechanical workshops charge accordingly with the amount of time is required to complete the repair in total. Make sure you approve only what you are comfortable and if the amount of hours charged might seem excessive then feel free to ask what exactly is involved as to contribute to such a high quantity of hours estimated to the job, any experienced and trustworthy mechanic will be able to tell you exactly what is needed and why. Many European made cars have very compact/space saving engine bays so it is often the case that many components may have to be removed to access the area in which the required repair is located, but it is always worth confirming that this is the case with your mechanic.
Unnecessary Fluid Flushes – Your mechanic may often advise you that you need your coolant or brake fluid flushed, and whilst it is true that it is a serviceable item that will degrade over time it does not need to be replaced as often as one might think as this technology is always improving and serviceable items now last much longer than they did 15 years ago. An easy way to avoid unnecessary fluid changes is to ask what values the fluid tested to be and ask that a copy of the test strip is available on collection of the car. If the fluid has been tested correctly and the repair advised in accordance, then this should be no problem.
Charging You For Nothing – Some dodgy workshops may have charged you for a service that they may not have performed so it is important that you site the replaced components and view the condition of the ones they have removed from your vehicle. If you are suspicious that these parts do not below to your car then take them with you and it can be confirmed via the part numbers.
Take the Time to Study the Owner’s Manual
Jon Snow may be an honourable watch, but he ‘knows nothing.’ That is likely the reason he got killed by his brothers on the wall. Thankfully, when it comes to car repairs, we do not have to be wary about betrayals or murders—just the age-old practice of conning. That said, it pays to know the basics about vehicle parts and engine operating principles.
A shady technician can easily tell if you understand what they are talking about. So, if you want to keep them from ripping you off, start learning. Dedicate a couple of hours towards reading the owner’s manual. Google an YouTube are also excellent for learning a thing or two these days as well.
Do Your Research
It will also help you discover where to get the European car service Perth vehicle owners recommend. So, ask your family, friends and co-workers where they bring their car for repair work. If you’re eyeing a service centre, learn about its philosophy and check their online reviews. Keep in mind that trusted mechanics always use a long-term business strategy. As such, they do their best to build stable relationships and provide the best value for their customer’s money. If you have the time, you can also visit the shop and inspect the facilities and equipment. Take this as an opportunity to assess if the staff are friendly, knowledgeable and professional.
Assess the Issue Carefully and Communicate it Accurately
Picture this: You bring your vehicle to a service centre and tell the mechanic that there’s something wrong with it. When they ask you what the problem is, you answer that you’re not sure. When you are vague about the issues of your vehicle, it will raise a lot of questions in the mind of the mechanic. A situation like this also opens several opportunities for shady technicians to scam you.
So, if you want to get a quick and accurate diagnosis and cure, you must be specific about your car’s problems. When assessing the issue, ask yourself questions like “Do I hear noises when I’m idling or when I’m turning in a certain direction” and, “What was my speed when the problem appeared?”
If you want to get the right repairs at a reasonable price, you must be able to communicate clearly with your mechanic. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to provide as much information as possible. It is ideal to write down the symptoms and what triggers them.
- It will not help if you offer your diagnosis. If you encounter a dishonest mechanic, they might perform the repairs according to your suggestions without solving the problem from its root cause.
- If the issue shows up while you’re driving, perform a test drive and ask the mechanic to accompany you. It is easier to illustrate the problem this way.
- If you are not convinced with the diagnosis, ask the mechanic for evidence. It is easy to see the rusted exhaust pipes or worn out brakes.
Get an Estimate of the Service, Repairs and Replacement Parts
Never let a mechanic start working on your vehicle without providing you with an estimate of the total cost of the services and replacement parts. That said, estimates are still estimates. So, it is possible for the bill to be slightly higher than what you initially expected. However, the amount should not be grossly far from the quoted price.
Bring Your Car to a Trusted Mechanic
We cannot stress enough how important it is to find a car mechanic Perth residents trust. Here at German Auto Meisters, we uphold Honesty, Integrity and Transparency. As a member of reputable associations such as the Motor Trade Association of WA (MTAWA), we follow the highest standards for quality and professionalism. Knowing this, you can trust that we won’t give you a vague estimate, then rip you off with hidden charges in the end.
As an independent service centre, we believe that building a long-lasting and strong relationship with our clients is crucial to the success of our business. As such, we work hard and honestly to provide you with the best value for your money. Moreover, we use the latest technology and diagnostic equipment to pin point the exact issue of your vehicle.
When you want honest and professional car repair services, call German Auto Meisters today!
