Monterey & San Benito – Auto Repair

Before you drop off your vehicle at a Monterey County and San Benito County auto repair shop or have it towed in for repairs, call the service manager and ask if they offer the car repair services you need. A prepared list of questions will ensure you ask all of the questions you need answered, and writing down the answers the auto technicians give you will help you remember which shop gave you which answers.

Use these questions as a guide to create your own list of questions to ask your mechanics:

• Has your company earned and maintained a Diamond Certified rating?
  
• Does your auto repair shop specialize in the car repairs my vehicle needs (i.e., car brake repairs, auto electrical repairs, engine repair, routine vehicle maintenance, auto ignition system repairs, etc.)?
  
• Is this a common car problem for my make and model?
  
• How often do you repair vehicles that are like mine (i.e. Ford Focus, Chrysler 300, GM, Toyota, BMW, Honda Accord, Lexus, Dodge Ram, etc.)?
  
• Are your auto repair technicians certified mechanics?
  
• Do you use OEM replacement auto parts, used parts or salvaged parts?
  
• If you install salvaged or used auto parts, will you guarantee them?
  
• Will your vehicle repair shop honor warranties currently covering my vehicle?
  
• Will these car repairs affect my manufacturer's warranty?
  
• Will you give me a written estimate for all vehicle repairs you recommend?
  
• How do you price auto repairs? (Flat fee pricing structure or time and materials?)
  
• What warrantees or guarantees do you offer on car repairs? Are there any exceptions?
  
• I live in _____ (Salinas, Monterey, Soledad, Pacific Grove, Greenfield, Seaside, South County, etc.). Do you offer courtesy cars or rental vehicles while my car is in the shop?
  
• How long has your auto repair shop been operating in Monterey County / San Benito County?

How can you be confident that the auto repair facilities in Monterey County and San Benito County you’ve interviewed will keep their promises?

You can take their word for it, or you can rely on independent research and scientific surveys. All Diamond Certified auto repair shops have undergone a ratings process that most other vehicle repair centers can’t pass. If you want quality from a vehicle repair shop in Monterey County and San Benito County and the greater Bay Area, you’ll have confidence when choosing Diamond Certified auto garages.

And you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews because all research is performed by live telephone interviews of a large, random sample of real customers. So you can read Diamond Certified reports on all certified companies, including verbatim survey responses. If you can’t find a Diamond Certified car repair shop within reach, you'll need to conduct some research of your own.

It is a good idea to take a little time to check references, even if you’re in a hurry to get your car repaired. Good auto repair shops in Monterey County and San Benito County should be willing to give you a list of recent customers you can call as references. Keep in mind, though, that reference lists provided by the shops are not identical in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. That’s because the references shops give out aren’t randomly selected from all customers, so shops are likely just giving you a few satisfied customers to call. To help avoid them giving you only customers they know were satisfied, specifically ask for a list of their 10 most recent customers.

When you call the references, ask general questions about their experience with the shop’s personnel as well as specific questions about the car repairs. Questions you might want to ask include:

• What auto repairs did _(auto repair shop name_) do for you?
  
• Were you satisfied with the car repairs from this Monterey County auto repair shop / San Benito County vehicle repair shop?
  
• Did the auto repair mechanics and service writers listen to and communicate with you?
  
• If you live in a smaller town such as Gabilan Acres, Fort Romie, Elkhorn, Logan, Llanada, Hudner, Metz, Sycamore Flat, Spreckels Junction or in rural South County, was your auto shop willing to tow your car or truck to their auto repair garage?
  
• Was the auto repair technicians’ turn-around time fair?
  
• Do you feel the price was reasonable for the auto repairs you had done?
  
• What did you like best about this particular Monterey County and San Benito County automotive repair shop?
  
• Would you go back to this car repair facility if your vehicle needed additional work?
  
• Would you recommend this auto repair garage to others?

No one likes emergency car repairs, but having a local Monterey County or San Benito County auto repair shop you trust for regular vehicle maintenance will give you peace of mind when dealing with your mechanics.

To get the best results, you’ll first want to meet with the shop’s service writer or owner and explain what the problem is. Use the notes you took so that you’re able to accurately describe the concerns you have and the symptoms you’re experiencing. Be as detailed as possible, and don’t feel rushed. It’s important to answer the service representative’s questions and listen to their suggestions and observations. If you don’t understand what they are telling you, ask for an explanation. You ought to completely comprehend the problem and the solutions before authorizing any work.

All estimates must be provided in writing before any work begins. This estimate must include the total cost for all parts and labor, the method of repair and a list of all parts needed. Remember, never sign a blank work order or incomplete estimate.

Sometimes a comprehensive diagnosis is needed before a repair shop can give you an accurate estimate. In this case, the estimate you sign may include just the cost of the car repair diagnosis and estimated auto repair labor cost. However, if the actual costs are more than the original estimate, the technicians must contact you before they move ahead with the repairs.

Feel Confident When Signing a Contract for Auto Repairs
When you’re satisfied with the information your Monterey County or San Benito County repair shop has given you, sign the estimate and service agreement. Verify that the repair shop has a phone number where they can reach you while your vehicle is in the shop. They must get your approval for additional work not listed on the original work order, and progress on your repairs can slow down or even stop if they can’t reach you to get consent. Likewise, if the car repair costs exceed the amount agreed upon on your estimate, the auto repair shop must get your approval before moving ahead. Your approval must be noted on the estimate and the invoice.

Most mechanics in Monterey County and San Benito County including the larger cities of Salinas, Soledad, Monterey, Seaside, Hollister and Marina will allow you to see the damaged auto parts Once they’ve identified the problem or needed repairs. Remember, it’s your legal right to have damaged parts returned to you, but you have to you ask for them before or while the auto repair shop staff is writing the service request.

When the work is completed, your mechanic is required to give you a written invoice. This must include:

• The name and physical address of the shop and their auto repair registration number.
  
• A list of all work performed, including warranty work done at no charge.
  
• An itemized list of all replaced parts. This list must state whether the parts installed were new, used, salvaged, reconditioned, or rebuilt auto parts.
  
• The total auto repair cost, including the amount charged for auto repair labor.
• Any applicable hazardous waste disposal fees and the shop’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) number.
  
• Your vehicle’s odometer reading at drop off and pick up, if you asked for the reading before signing the service agreement.

You're entitled to have original parts returned to you if you asked for them when you signed the auto repair estimate. Mechanics may not be able to return to you parts that are under warranty as they may need to be returned to the supplier, but they still are required to show you the damaged parts.

The following auto repair services are the most familiar requests for local auto repair shops in Salinas, Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, San Juan Bautista, Soledad, Marina, Pacific Grove, and other cities in Monterey County and San Benito County.

Automobile Brake Repair
Brakes wear down as you use them, so it makes sense that it’s one of the most common auto repairs. Most brake repairs are brake pad replacements, which are relatively inexpensive. Brakes should be checked regularly, especially if you experience:

• The brake warning light stays on continuously
  
• Squealing or grinding sounds when you brake
  
• The brake pedal feels hard when you step on it
  
• Low or spongy-feeling brake pedal

Vehicle Brake Replacement
Like brake repair, auto brake replacements are common car repairs in Monterey County and San Benito County. Full brake replacements, including the brake disc, drum and rotor can be costly, but may be necessary if you’ve been driving with worn or damaged brakes that have warped or damaged the brake system.

Routine Vehicle Maintenance
Also known as a tune-up, routine vehicle maintenance is the regular check-up schedule generally recommended by vehicle manufacturers at 30-, 60-, and 90,000 mile intervals. Routine maintenance generally involves checking and replacing air filters, fuel filters, cabin filters and spark plugs. Most car mechanics in Monterey County and San Benito County will also check, flush and refill auto fluid and ensure the engine, exhaust and electrical systems are functioning correctly. These routine vehicle maintenance checks allow auto repair mechanics to prevent expensive car repairs by seeing small issues before they become big problems.

Auto Electrical Repair
As vehicles become more computerized and complex, auto electrical repairs become more common. Most auto electrical repairs are required for the alternator, the component that continually charges your battery. Vehicle starter repairs are also common. Experts recommend checking your entire auto electrical system every two years and whenever you experience drivability problems that appear to be electrical in nature.

Auto Electrical Repairs
Auto electrical problems include blown fuses, burned-out headlights, and serious electrical problems that keep you from safely driving your vehicle. Because these auto repairs demand special equipment, tools and repair methods, most auto electrical repairs are best left to automobile electrical repair technicians in Monterey County and San Benito County.

Auto Fuel System Repairs
Clogged fuel pumps are a common problem for Monterey County and San Benito County drivers who regularly run on less than ¼ tank of fuel. Other typical auto fuel system problems include clogged fuel filters, engine flooding and engine choking sounds. Auto fuel system repairs are usually best handled by professional car mechanics who have the experience and tools to clean, repair and replace fuel system components.

Auto Engine Repair
Often signaled by a lit Check Engine light, vehicle engine problems can also present themselves as sputtering, choking, fast or rough idling, slow acceleration or the vehicle not starting even though the ignition turns over. Because there is such a range of engine problems that can cause these symptoms, few car owners attempt do-it-yourself engine repairs. There are automobile mechanics throughout Monterey County and San Benito County that specialize in automotive engine repairs.

Auto Ignition System Repairs
Automobile ignition system repairs include battery, starter and car ignition replacements. Starters and ignitions can be expensive, but they are necessary in order to guarantee your car will start reliably.
Mobile Mechanic / Mobile Auto Repair Mobile mechanic shops in Monterey County and San Benito County are increasingly popular. Instead of having vehicles towed to repair shops, many customers opt to have licensed mechanics come to them. From tune-ups and routine maintenance to auto electrical repairs and belt and hose replacement, mobile mechanics come to your home or place of business by appointment to service your vehicle.

Auto Belt and Hose Repair and Replacement
Vehicle belts and hoses including drive belt, fan belt, serpentine belt, timing belt, heater hose and fuel hose keep auto engines and other vehicle systems running smoothly. Signs that may indicate auto belts and hoses problems include squeaking, squealing under the hood, fluid leaks, lit warning lights and overheating engines.

Below are key auto repair terms and descriptions that will help you navigate your way through your auto's repair from beginning to end.

aftermarket auto parts
Auto repair parts not made by the original manufacturer. Aftermarket parts are made to fit and function the same as the original parts, but they’re often less expensive than OEM parts. Some aftermarket auto parts are redesigned to increase performance.

Also known as: functionally-equivalent auto parts, off-brand auto parts, aftermarket parts, off-make auto parts, performance aftermarket parts

auto air filter
A paper or synthetic filter that blocks dust, dirt and debris as air enters the engine is called an air filter.

Also known as: air filter, auto air filters, car air filter, performance air filter, auto air filter replacements, auto cabin air filter, interior air filter

all-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive systems increase traction on slippery roads and off-road surfaces. All-wheel drive is different from 4-wheel drive because drivers cannot disengage AWD systems.

Also known as: AWD

anti-freeze
Liquid in the cooling system that dissipates heat. Antifreeze prevents freezing during winter, cools the engine in summer and protects the cooling system from corrosion and rust.

Also known as: coolant

auto electrical repair
Auto repairs to the electrical system of a vehicle. Auto electrical repairs may include alternator repair, auto starter repair, ignition repair, and auto electrical wiring repairs or replacement.

Also known as: automobile electrical repair, automotive electrical repair, car electrical repair, auto electrical service

auto power loss
When an engine runs at reduced speed or requires more throttle to maintain speed.

Also known as: car power loss, low power output, automobile hesitating

catalytic converter
A vehicle’s catalytic converter isolates exhaust particles and burns them before they leave the tailpipe.

Also known as: cat, catcon

chassis
The undercarriage of a vehicle is known as the chassis. The chassis carries all power train and suspension parts.

Also known as: framework, auto case, auto frame, auto undercarriage

control arms
The moving suspension components mounted between the vehicle frame and the wheels.

Also known as: car wishbone, auto double wishbone, vehicle suspension

crankcase
The largest engine section, the crankcase contains the crankshaft.

crankshaft
The rod that transfers power from the engine to the transmission.

Also known as: crank, crank-shaft

domestic auto repair shops
Auto repair garages that specialize in repairs on domestic vehicles. General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler (also known as The Big Three) are considered domestic vehicle manufacturers.

fast idle
When a vehicle’s engine runs fast while the vehicle is stopped and idling.

flooded engine
When too much fuel is in the cylinders and makes starting difficult or impossible.

Also known as: engine flooded with gas, car flooded, engine stall, flooded vehicle

foreign auto repair shops
Foreign auto repair shops perform repairs and maintenance on vehicles manufactured by foreign car companies, including some models built in the United States, including BMW, Toyota, Honda and Lexus.

four-wheel drive
4WD is a drive system that powers all four wheels and provides better traction during off-road use and poor weather conditions.

Also known as: 4WD, 4x4, four by four, sport utility vehicle

front-wheel drive
A driving system that powers the front wheels of the vehicle. Front-wheel drive systems can be automatic or manual shift.

Also known as: FWD

fuel injection
The fuel delivery system where injectors (also known as nozzles) spray fuel into the cylinders, giving better fuel control and efficiency.

Also known as: electronic fuel injection (EFI)

hesitation
The momentary loss of power on acceleration that causes a vehicle to hesitate when gaining speed.

Also known as: engine hesitation, engine sputtering, auto stumbling

horsepower
The amount of energy produced by a vehicle’s engine.

Also known as: HP, mechanical horsepower, car horsepower, vehicle horsepower, electrical horsepower

idle
The term used to describe a vehicle that is stationary but running.

Also known as: idling, fast idle, slow idle, auto idling

mechanic
An auto mechanic is a professional who repairs and maintains vehicles.

Also known as: auto mechanic, automobile mechanic, auto repair technician, car mechanic, professional mechanic

mobile auto repair
A mechanic who repairs vehicles on-site is considered a mobile auto repair service. Mobile auto repair shops can often do minor and major repairs and tune-ups.

Also known as: on-site auto repair, mobile auto shop, full-service auto shop, mobile mechanic, mobile auto services, traveling mechanic

OEM auto parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
Auto parts made by the vehicle manufacturer. While they may cost more than aftermarket auto parts, OEM parts usually fit better, last longer and are covered by warranties.

Also known as: Original Equipment Manufacturer parts, stock vehicle parts, stock parts

power train
The term referring to the transmission and engine, the parts that deliver power to the vehicle.

RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
The speed at which the engine crankshaft is turning. Too-fast or too-slow RPMs are a possible sign of car trouble.

rear differential
The differential is important for turning and cornering. It’s the gear system that allows one wheel to rotate faster than the other.

Also known as: auto differential, vehicle differential

rough idle
Rough idling is when the engine shakes and vibrates while the vehicle is running and stationary.

Also known as: vibrations, auto choking, engine sputtering

salvage parts
Auto parts taken from recycled vehicles are called salvage auto parts. These are often inexpensive auto repair parts, but they usually don’t come with warranties because they haven’t been repaired or altered so their reliability can’t be guaranteed. Salvage auto parts are often a last resort for vehicle owners looking for hard-to-find parts for rare or older vehicles.

Also known as: salvage auto parts, salvage car parts, salvaged parts, used auto parts, replacement parts, used car parts, salvaged replacement parts, used car parts, refurbished auto parts, rebuilt auto parts

serpentine belt
Serpentine belts are long, continuous belts that runs several automotive engine components, indulging the alternator, power steering pump, air pump and water pump.

Also known as: multi-vee belts, multi-v belts, multi-rib belts, s-belts, serpentine auto belt

shimmy
The term for a side-to-side motion that causes a vehicle’s tires and steering wheel to shake.

Also known as: car shaking, vehicle vibrations, car shimmying, vehicle shaking

sluggish performance
When a vehicle does not accelerate smoothly or quickly enough.

Also known as: auto hesitation, vehicle loss of power

suspension system
The shock absorbers and springs that create a smoother ride by dampening the motion of a vehicle as it drives is referred to as a vehicle’s suspension.

Also known as: suspension, auto suspension, car suspension, vehicle suspension system repairs

timing belt
The timing belt is a toothed belt that is operated by the crankshaft and drives the camshaft in a vehicle Broken timing belts cause valves to remain open and can cause engine damage when the valve is struck and bent by a piston.

undercarriage
The underside of a vehicle that supports and creates the framework.

Also known as: automobile framework, car body, auto frame, vehicle chassis

vacuum hose
A hose that creates vacuum suction force in the engine. Vacuum hoses move fluids from one part of the engine to another.

Also known as: vacuum hoses, fluid hoses, engine hoses, engine fluid hoses

water pump
The pump that moves coolant (antifreeze) through the radiator and engine.