What a Car Mechanic Might Never Tell You About Your Vehicle
I've been a car mechanic for 21 years, and while I won't tell you something I don't know to be true about your vehicle, there are definitely a few things that they might not tell you. This includes information that would be beneficial for you to know, and insights into how mechanics operate and what they might be trying to hide.
When Is Your Car Not Worth Repairing?
Most car mechanics won't tell you that your car is not worth fixing. After all, it would kill a lot of business for them. However, sometimes a car is so worn out that it is cheaper to replace it than to fix it. This applies to older vehicles that have already accumulated significant mileage and wear and tear.
DIY Oil Changes and Cost-Saving Tips
Oil changes can be done at home with just a few basic tools, saving you around 50% compared to a professional mechanic. Many mechanics might overcharge for other services, such as transmission and steering checks, which can be 3-4 times more expensive than a routine oil change. They may only check the fluids and call everything else 'fine', even if it needs attention.
Tips for Dealing with Mechanics
Assess the true value of your car: If a mechanic suggests a significant repair costing around 5000, it may be cheaper to replace the car altogether if it is approaching 150,000 miles. For example, a new motor every 25,000 miles for 6 repairs would cost around 10,800 at a dealership, whereas 50 oil changes over 80,000 miles cost just 4,000. Therefore, consider the long-term cost when making decisions about your vehicle.
Scheduling: If a mechanic tells you to bring the car in immediately, they may not be as busy as they claim. Often, if a mechanic is always fully booked, it is a good sign. For instance, a reputable mechanic might be booked every Saturday in April by mid-February. Ensure appointments are scheduled well in advance to avoid disruption to your busy schedule.
Check Engine Light: The check engine light is often not serious and can be checked at any auto parts store for free. Most big-box retailers like Pep Boys, O'Reilly Auto Parts, and Auto Zone will loan you a free OBD reader. Depending on the code, it may not be a major problem. If the light is flashing, it indicates a serious issue that is about to occur.
Transparency and Rapport
It's crucial to maintain a positive relationship with your service provider. Mechanics who have a good rapport with their customers are less likely to take advantage or cheat them. Be cautious of mechanics who offer unrealistic discounts or miracle repairs without sufficient justification. Building a good rapport ensures that the mechanic will not disappoint you and will work transparently with you.
Encourage your customers to check and look up part pricing before finalizing repairs. This can help you avoid nickel-and-dime tricks where mechanics try to squeeze extra money out of their customers by making up unnecessary repairs.
In summary, while car mechanics are valuable and knowledgeable professionals, there are certain things they might not openly share with you. By being informed and maintaining a positive relationship with your service provider, you can ensure that you make the best decisions for your vehicle and your wallet.