Visiting a mechanic often brings on feelings of insecurity and even helplessness. You need find one you can trust—a mechanic with whom you know you're not being taken advantage of.
You can lessen the anxiety by choosing a mechanic who communicates on your level, says Lyde Waitley of Olsen’s Automotive Repair.
“You assume they have greater knowledge than you as a consumer,” says Waitley. “It’s how they share that knowledge that matters. There’s a way to talk to consumers so that they understand. It’s necessary for a comfortable, trusting relationship.”
Waitley suggests you pay close attention to the mechanic’s listening skills. Good mechanics listen and ask questions before making a diagnosis. Plus, they often have a knack for explaining repairs in terms that make sense even to customers with no mechanical or vehicle knowledge—often by using analogies to illustrate the work needed.
Though your first priority is finding a highly skilled and honest garage, most people also find themselves drawn to mechanics that are personable and helpful. Follow your instinct, says Waitley, and show preference for a mechanic who gives you that “good feeling.” In fact, he suggests you visit a mechanic or two in your area before you bring in your car. Describe your problem and ask them how they would address it.
“Do they make time to talk to you? Do they make you feel important?" he says. If not, he suggests, keep looking.
