San Francisco – Auto Repair

Before you drop off your vehicle at a local San Francisco auto repair shop or have it towed in for repairs, call and talk directly with the service manager to see if they offer the repair services you need. It’s smart to have a prepared list of questions and to write down the answers the auto technicians give you. Use the following questions as a guide:

• Has your company earned and maintained a Diamond Certified rating?
  
• Does your auto repair shop specialize in the car repairs my vehicle needs (auto electrical repairs, engine repair, car brake repairs)?
  
• How often do you repair vehicles that are the same make and model as mine (i.e. Ford, Toyota, Chrysler, Lexus, Infiniti, Honda, etc.)?
  
• Are your auto repair technicians certified?
  
• Is this a common car problem for my make and model?
  
• What kind of replacement auto parts do you use? (OEM / Original Equipment Manufacturer parts, used parts or salvaged parts?)
  
• If you install used auto parts, will you guarantee them?
  
• Will your automotive repair shop honor any manufacturer warranties currently covering my vehicle?
  
• Will the needed car repairs affect my manufacturer's warranty?
  
• Will you give me a written, itemized estimate for all necessary vehicle repairs?
  
• How do you price auto repairs? (Flat fee pricing structure or time and materials?)
  
• What warrantees and guarantees do you offer on car repairs? Are there any exceptions I should be aware of?
  
• I live in _____ (Barbary Coast, Japantown, Outer Sunset, Twin Peaks, Western Addition, Hayes Valley, Marina District 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 San Francisco?

How can you tell which auto repair facilities in San Francisco is the best choice for you? That’s where independent research and scientific surveys come in.

All Diamond Certified auto repair shops have undergone a ratings process that most other companies can’t pass. If you want quality from a vehicle repair shop in San Francisco and the greater Bay Area, you’ll have confidence when choosing Diamond Certified companies. You can read Diamond Certified reports on all certified companies, including verbatim survey responses. And you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews because all research is performed by live telephone interviews for verified results.

If you can’t find a Diamond Certified car repair shop within reach, you'll need to carry out some research of your own. Even if you’re in a hurry to get your vehicle repairs done right away, it is still a good idea to take a little time to check references. If you do, auto repair shops in San Francisco should be willing to give you a list of recent customers you can call. Keep in mind, though, that references provided by the shops are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. That’s because references are cherry-picked, not randomly selected, so the shops will likely give you a few satisfied customers to call rather than a list of random clients. When you call for references, specifically ask for a list of the shop’s most recent customers (to help avoid them giving you only customers they know were satisfied).

Ask the references general questions about their experience with the shop’s personnel as well as specific questions about the car repairs to get a good feel for the services they provide and the attitude with which they deliver them.

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 San Francisco auto repair shop?
  
• If you live in a smaller neighborhood such as Laurel Heights, Potrero Hill, Russian Hill, Sea Cliff or Telegraph Hill, was your auto shop willing to tow your car or truck to their auto repair garage?
  
• Were you pleased with the turn-around time?
  
• Did the auto repair mechanics and service personnel listen to and communicate with you?
  
• Do you feel the price was fair for the auto repairs or routine vehicle maintenance you had done?
  
• What did you like best about this particular San Francisco automotive repair shop?
  
• Would you go back to this car repair facility if your vehicle needed additional work?
  
• Would you recommend/have you recommend this auto repair garage?

Now that you’ve found a local San Francisco auto repair shop you trust for regular vehicle maintenance, emergency car repairs don’t have to be such a setback. In fact, having a reliable shop to call for repairs large and small will give you peace of mind while dealing with your mechanics even if your repairs are unexpected.

Before leaving your car for repairs, you’ll want to meet with the service writer and explain what the problem is. Use the notes you took about your vehicle’s performance so that you’re able to accurately describe the concerns you have and what you’re experiencing. Be as detailed as possible, and don’t let the mechanics or service writers rush you. Answer their questions and listen to their suggestions and observations, and expect that same respect from them. If you don’t understand what the repair center representative is telling you, ask for an explanation or more details. You should completely understand the trouble and the solution before leaving your vehicle at the car repair garage.

Auto repair estimates must be provided in writing before the work begins. This estimate must include the total estimated cost for all parts and labor, an itemized list of all parts needed and the method of repair. Remember, a good auto repair shop will never ask you to sign a blank work order. Sometimes a thorough diagnosis is needed before a repair shop can give you an accurate estimate. In this case, the estimate you sign may include only the cost of the diagnosis or the car repair diagnosis and estimated auto repair labor costs. However, if the actual costs are more than the estimate, the technicians must contact you before they do repairs.

Sign a Contract for Auto Repair Work in the San Francisco Area
Sign the estimate and service agreement when you’re satisfied with the information from your San Francisco repair shop. The shop must get your approval for any repairs or additional work, and your repairs will slow down or even stop if the mechanics can’t reach you to get your consent for work not listed on the original work order. So verify that the car repair shop has your phone number and can reach you at all times while your vehicle is in the shop.

If the actual repair costs exceed the amount agreed upon on your estimate, the auto repair shop must get your approval before moving ahead with the car repairs. Your approval must be noted on the estimate and the invoice.

Once they’ve identified the problem and outlined the needed repairs, most mechanics in San Francisco including the larger Sunset District, Tenderloin, Richmond District, Mission District and Bernal Heights District will show you the damaged auto parts. Remember, it’s your legal right to have your old car parts returned to you if, while they’re writing up the service request, you ask the car repair shop to return them.

You may also request an odometer reading for pre- and post-pickup, if you request it when dropping off your vehicle for repairs. This is important to some customers, so if it’s important to you, remember to ask for the odometer reading when the service writer is creating your contract.

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.
• Their state-issued auto repair registration number.
• A list of all work performed, including warranty work or repairs 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.)
• The total cost of the auto repairs, including the amount charged for labor.
• Any applicable hazardous waste disposal fees and the shop’s Environmental Protection Agency number.
• Your vehicle’s odometer reading at drop off and pick up, if you asked for the reading before signing the service agreement.
• Return of the original parts if you asked for them when you signed the auto repair estimate. The mechanics may not be able to return parts that are under warranty (they may need return them to the supplier), but you still have the right to see them if you wish.
   

Automotive repair shops in San Francisco provide all types of maintenance and vehicle repair services. However, some repairs are more common than others. The following are the most familiar requests for local auto repair shops.

Auto Electrical Repairs / Car Electrical Repairs
Auto electrical problems include blown fuses, burned-out headlights and serious electrical problems. Because auto electrical malfunctions are serious and require special equipment, tools and repair methods, most auto electrical repairs should be entrusted to automobile electrical repair technicians in the San Francisco area.

Routine Vehicle Maintenance
Routine vehicle maintenance is the regular check-up schedule recommended by vehicle manufacturers. It is also known as a tune-up, and is usually recommended at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 mile intervals. Routine maintenance usually involves checking and replacing auto air filters, car fuel filters, cabin filters and spark plugs. Most car mechanics in San Francisco will also check and refill auto fluids and do a cursory overview of the engine, exhaust and electrical systems to ensure they are functioning correctly. Some mechanics even take vehicles for a test drive to verify the cars are driving correctly. Routine vehicle maintenance checks allow auto repair technicians to prevent expensive car repairs by seeing small issues before they become big problems.

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 San Francisco that specialize in automotive engine repairs.

Auto Fuel System Repairs
Clogged fuel pumps are a common problem for San Francisco drivers who regularly run on less than a quarter tank of fuel. Other auto fuel system problems include clogged fuel filters, engine flooding and starter choking or coughing 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 Ignition System Repairs / Vehicle Ignition Repairs
Automobile ignition system repairs include new car batteries, car starter repairs and car ignition replacements. Car starters and ignition repairs can be expensive, but they are necessary in order to guarantee your car will start reliably.

Auto Electrical Repair
Auto electrical repairs are more common because vehicles are more computerized and complex than ever before. Most auto electrical repairs impact vehicle alternators, 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.

Automobile Brake Repair
Brakes wear down as you use them, so it makes sense that brake repairs are a common request at local auto repair mechanics in Mission District, Sunset District, North Beach, Nob Hill, The Tenderloin or Bernal Heights and all throughout San Francisco. Most brake repairs are relatively inexpensive brake pad replacements. Because you rely on your brakes to stop your car, brakes should be checked regularly, especially if you experience:
Squealing or grinding sounds when you depress your brake pedal
Your brake pedal feels hard when you press it
Low or spongy-feeling brake pedal
A continuously-lit brake warning light

Mobile Auto Repair (Mobile Mechanic)
Mobile mechanics in San Francisco 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 mechanic shops come to you by appointment to service your vehicle.

Vehicle Brake Replacement
Like brake repair, auto brake replacements are common car repairs in San Francisco. 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.

Auto Belt and Hose Repair and Replacement
Vehicle belts and hoses including the drive belt, fan belt, serpentine belt, timing belt, heater hose and fuel hose keep your engine and other vehicle systems running smoothly. Signs that may indicate a problem with belts and hoses include squeaking noises, fluid leaks, auto warning lights and car engine overheating.

Below are key auto repair terms and descriptions that will help you navigate your way through your auto's repair from beginning to end at automotive repair shops in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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

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

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, all-wheel drive, allwheel drive

anti-freeze
Liquid in the cooling system that disperses heat is known as anti-freeze. Automotive antifreeze prevents car fluids from freezing during winter, cools the engine in summer and protects the car’s cooling system from corrosion and rust.

Also known as: coolant, auto coolant, antifreeze, anti freeze

auto electrical repair
Auto electrical repairs are repairs to vehicle electrical systems. Auto electrical repairs include alternator repair, ignition repair, auto starter repair, and auto electrical wiring repairs and replacement.

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

automotive air filter
A paper or synthetic filter that blocks dust, dirt and debris as air enters the engine.

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

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

Also known as: cat, catcon

car 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, chassis

control arms
Auto control arms are the moving suspension parts mounted between the vehicle frame and the car wheels.

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

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

Also known as: crank, crank-shaft

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

domestic auto repair shops
Auto repair garages that specialize in repairs on domestic vehicles. General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler 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

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 is usually referred to as hesitation.

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

horsepower
Mechanical horsepower is the amount of energy produced by a vehicle’s engine, and is generally defined 745.7 watts, or the equivalent to moving 550 foot-pounds per second. Horsepower originally compared the output of steam engines with that of draft horses.

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

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

Also known as: automotive idling, car idling, idling, vehicle idling, idling vehicle

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

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

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: mobile auto mechanic, mobile car repair, mobile auto repairs

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

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

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

RPM
The speed at which the engine crankshaft is turning.

Also known as: revolutions per minute, engine RPM, engine revolutions per minute, car rpm, car rpms

rebuilt auto parts
Rebuilt auto parts are used auto parts that have been remanufactured, reconditioned and restored.

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

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 other vehicles (usually damaged in accidents or suffering from irreparable or major repairs that leave many car parts usable) are called salvage auto parts. Salvage parts often make for inexpensive auto repair parts, but they usually don’t come with warranties because they aren’t new so their reliability can’t be guaranteed. However, salvage auto parts may be a good option 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

serpentine belt
Serpentine belts are also called multi-vee or multi-rib belts. They are long, continuous automotive belts that run several vehicle 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

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, auto shimmying, car shimmying

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

Also known as: auto hesitation, vehicle loss of power

suspension
The shock absorbers and springs that create a smoother ride by dampening the motion of a vehicle as it drives.

Also known as: suspension system

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.

Also known as: auto timing belt, cam belt, bad timing belt, broken timing belt

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

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

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

Also known as: auto water pump, truck water pump, car water pump, vehicle water pump