Being prepared is one sure
fire way of avoiding being ripped off at an auto repair shop. Most of the time,
people show up at a repair shop due to unexpected circumstances, due to which
they lack the time or foresight to research the bare necessities of car repair.
It is of utmost importance
that you understand how your vehicle works in order to identify common car
problems. Next in line, is picking a good, reliable mechanic, followed by
knowing your consumer rights. This checklist is the bare minimum to be in the
loop when it comes to car repair in Las Vegas.
Communication
In order to get your car
repaired for the problem at hand, you need to be able to get your problem
across with the right jargon in place to avoid getting unnecessary fixes. It is
important to pinpoint the problem or perhaps explain your problem precisely so
that the mechanic knows exactly what's wrong. Make sure that the mechanic is
informed of how long the issue stayed, the state of the engine, whether it
crops up when you drive too fast, so on and so forth.
Written Estimate and Work Order
Once you are aware of the
problem and the repairs that are needed, have the shop write out a description
of the work alongside a price on the work order. Make sure that you have it
written down and clearly mention the conditions of the repair. If all the work
required is covered under warranty, then be sure that the work order has
"Only warranty repairs are authorized" written down in the fine
print.
Invoice
Before you make a payment,
make sure that the car repair shop gives you an invoice which includes its
name, address, your name, license number along with the mileage. It should also
include labor charge, name, number and price of each part that has been
replaced. Make sure that you keep your invoice because this can come in handy in
the future as a proof of payment.
Know your Rights
You need to be aware of your rights when you opt for car
repair in Las Vegas.
·
There are
legislation rules that regulate auto repair shops. Cost estimates need to be
written down on paper when requested and every shop has to provide a written
cost estimate and nothing less.
·
Another point
to keep in mind is if the cost exceeds the estimate. No shop is allowed to
charge more than ten percent above its estimate unless it is authorized by
phone or in writing by a customer.
·
The same goes
with time estimates as all shops are required to provide a time estimate under
pretty much the same conditions that apply to cost estimates.
·
Parts that
have been replaced need to be returned if they have been requested for in
advance.
