San Mateo – Auto Repair

Talk with the service manager before dropping off your vehicle at a local San Mateo County auto repair shop or having it towed in for repairs to see if they offer the repair services you need. It’s good to have a prepared list of questions and to write down the answers the auto technicians give you.

Use the following questions to get started:

• 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 like mine (i.e. Ford, GM, Toyota, Dodge, Honda, BMW, Infiniti, etc.)?
  
• Do your auto repair technicians hold any auto repair certifications?
  
• Is this a common car problem for my make and model?
  
• What replacement auto parts do you use? (OEM parts, used parts, salvaged parts or aftermarket parts?)
  
• If you install used auto parts, will you warrantee those auto parts?
  
• Will your vehicle repair shop honor any warranties currently covering my vehicle?
  
• Will the needed automotive repairs affect my manufacturer's warranty?
  
• Will you give me a written, itemized estimate for all necessary vehicle repairs?
  
• How do you price your auto repair services? (A flat fee or time and materials?)
  
• What warrantees and guarantees do you offer on car repairs? Are there any exceptions I should be aware of?
  
• Do you offer use of a courtesy car or rental vehicle while my car is in the shop?
  
• How long has your auto repair shop been operating in San Mateo County?

How can you tell that auto repair facilities in San Mateo County are as good as they claim to be?

Independent research and scientific surveys can prove their assertions and give you the proof you need to choose the best shop for you.

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 repair shop in San Mateo County 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. All research is performed by live telephone interviews of a large, random sample of real customers, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

If you can’t find a Diamond Certified car repair shop within reach, you'll need to do some research on your own. Even if you’re in a hurry to have your vehicles repairs done immediately, it is still a good idea to take time to check references. If you do, the auto repair shops in San Mateo County you call should be willing to give you a list of recent customers. Keep in mind, though, that references provided by the shops are not equal in significance to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. That’s because references are cherry-picked, not randomly selected from all customers, so shops are likely just giving you a few satisfied customers to call.

If you do call on references, specifically ask for a list of their 10 most recent customers (to help avoid them giving you only customers they know were satisfied) and call those references. Ask general questions about their experience with the shop as well as specific questions about the car repairs the shop completed for them.

Questions you might want to ask the San Mateo County auto technicians include:

• What auto repairs did _(auto repair shop name_) do for you?
  
• Were you satisfied with the car repairs from this San Mateo County auto repair shop?
  
• If you live in a smaller town such as Emerald Hills, El Granada, Palomar Park, West Menlo Park or Brisbane, was your auto shop able to tow your van, car or truck to their auto repair garage?
  
• Did the auto repair mechanics and service writers listen to and communicate with you?
  
• Do you feel the price was fair for the auto repairs you had done?
  
• Were you pleased with the auto repair technicians’ turn-around time?
  
• What did you like best about this San Mateo County automotive repair shop?
  
• Would you go back to this car repair facility?
  
• Would you recommend this auto repair garage?

Emergency car repairs don’t have to be such a setback. In fact, you’ll have peace of mind even when dealing with unexpected auto repairs now that you’ve found a local San Mateo County auto repair shop you trust for regular vehicle maintenance.

After you’ve chosen the vehicle repair center that is the best fit for you, schedule an appointment with the service writer and explain the car problems you’re experiencing. Use the notes you took so that you can accurately describe your concerns and what you’re experiencing. Be as detailed as possible, and don’t let the mechanic or service writer rush you. It’s important to answer their questions and listen to their suggestions and observations. If you don’t understand what the repair shop representative is telling you, ask for clarification. You should completely comprehend the problem and the solutions.

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

Sometimes a more thorough diagnosis is needed before a repair shop can give you an accurate estimate for auto repair costs. In this case, the estimate you sign may include just the cost of the diagnosis or the car repair diagnosis and estimated auto repair labor cost. However, if the actual auto repair costs are more than the estimate, the technicians must contact you before moving ahead with the repairs. Your approval of any changes or additional repairs must be noted on the estimate and the invoice.

Sign a Service Agreement with Your Local Auto Repair Shop
When you’re satisfied with the information your San Mateo County repair shop has given you, sign the estimate and service contract. Verify that the repair shop has your phone number and can reach you at all times while your vehicle is in the shop. They must get your approval for any repairs or additional work, and progress on your repairs can slow down or even stop if they can’t reach you to get consent for work not listed on the original auto repair estimate.

Once they’ve identified the problem or necessary repairs, most mechanics in San Mateo County including the larger cities of Daly City, South San Francisco, San Mateo, Redwood City and San Bruno, will allow you to see the used auto parts they’ve removed from your car. Remember, it’s your legal right to have damaged parts returned to you if you ask for them when you authorize the service request.

When the work is completed, your mechanic is required to give you a detailed, 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 or rebuilt.
• The total cost, including an itemized amount 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.

Remember, you're also permitted to have original parts returned to you, but only if you asked for them when you authorized 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 you still have the right to see them.

Automotive repair shops in San Mateo County provide many auto maintenance and vehicle repair services. The following are the most familiar requests for local auto repair shops in and around San Mateo.

Auto Electrical Repairs
Auto electrical problems can be small, like blown fuses or burned-out headlights, or as serious as electrical problems that keep you from safely operating your vehicle. Because these auto repairs require special equipment, tools and repair techniques, most auto electrical repairs should be left to professional automobile electrical repair technicians in San Mateo County.

Auto Fuel System Repair
Clogged fuel pumps are a common problem for San Mateo County drivers who regularly drive their cars with low fuel. Other auto fuel system problems include clogged fuel filters, engine flooding and vehicle choking sounds. Auto fuel system repairs are usually best handled by professional car mechanics who have the experience and tools to flush, repair and replace fuel system components.

Auto Belt and Hose Repair / Replacement
Vehicle belts and hoses including the drive belt, fan belt, serpentine belt, timing belt, heater hoses 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, leaks, warning lights and engine overheating.

Mobile Auto Repair (Mobile Mechanics)
Mobile mechanic shops in San Mateo 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 electrical repairs and belt and hose replacement, mobile mechanics come to customers’ homes or places of business by appointment to service vehicles.

Routine Vehicle Maintenance
Also known as a tune-up, routine vehicle maintenance is the regular check-up schedule recommended by vehicle manufacturers. This usually involves inspection and replacement of air filters, fuel filters, cabin filters and spark plugs. Most mechanics in San Mateo County will check, flush and refill auto fluid and ensure the engine, exhaust and electrical systems are functioning correctly. These routine vehicle maintenance checks allow auto mechanics to prevent costly car repairs by seeing small issues before they become big problems.

Auto Electrical Repairs
As vehicles become more complex, auto electrical repairs become more common. Most auto electrical repairs involve the alternator, the component that charges your auto battery. Vehicle starter repairs are also common. Experts recommend performing auto electrical system inspections every two years and anytime you experience drivability problems that appear to be electrical in nature.

Automobile Brake Repairs
Brake repairs are a common request made of auto repair mechanics in Redwood City, Foster City, Menlo Park, San Mateo and all throughout San Mateo County. This is because brakes wear down as you use them. Most brake repairs are actually brake pad replacement, and are relatively inexpensive. Because you rely on them to stop your car on time, have your brakes checked regularly, especially if you experience:

• Your brake pedal feels hard when you step on it
• A brake pedal that feels low or spongy
• A continuously-lit brake warning light
• Squealing or grinding sounds when you brake

Vehicle Brakes Replacement
Like brake repair, auto brake replacements are common car repairs in San Mateo 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.

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 Mateo County that specialize in automotive engine repairs.

Auto Ignition System Repair
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.

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 are commonly referred to as aftermarket auto parts. Aftermarket parts fit and function like original parts, but they’re often less expensive than OEM parts. Some aftermarket auto parts are redesigned to increase vehicle performance.

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

auto repair shop
An automotive repair shop that maintain and repair the internal working parts of automobiles. Some auto repair shops specialize in specific repairs, such as auto electrical repair shops, automobile brake shops, muffler repair shops and automobile engine repair shops. Other vehicle repair centers are general repair garages that do all types of maintenance and service repairs.

Also known as: car repair shop, auto mechanic shop, car mechanic shop, automobile repair shop, auto repair garage

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, allwheel drive, all wheel drive

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 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

auto electrical repair
Auto repairs to the electrical system of a vehicle are simply known as auto electrical repairs. Vehicle 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, vehicle electrical repairs, auto electrical diagnostics

auto mechanic
An auto mechanic is a professional auto technician who repairs and maintains vehicles. Auto mechanics may be factory-trained or may work on any type of vehicle.

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

car 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

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

Also known as: cat, catcon

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

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, rear differential, car differential, vehicle differential repairs

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.

Also known as: American car repair, domestic car repairs, domestic auto repairs, factory-trained domestic auto repairs

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

Also known as: vehicle fast idle, fast idling, auto idling fast, car idling fast, racing idle

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, known as fuel-injector nozzles, spray fuel into the cylinders for better fuel control and fuel efficiency.

Also known as: electronic fuel injection, EFI

hesitation
Hesitation is the brief loss of power during acceleration that causes a vehicle to hesitate or lag when gaining speed.

Also known as: engine hesitation, auto hesitation, acceleration hesitation engine sputtering, auto stumbling, vehicle lagging, engine lag

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

Also known as: car 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

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.

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 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
Referring to the transmission and engine of a vehicle, the powertrain is an inclusive term that defines the parts of the vehicle that deliver power.

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

revolutions per minute
The speed at which the engine crankshaft is turning.

Also known as: rpm, RPM, RPMs

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 auto 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

serpentine belts
Serpentine belts are the long, continuous belts that run many automotive engine components, such as the alternator, power steering pump, air pump and car water pump.

Also known as: multi-vee belts, multi-v belts, multi-rib belts

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 run by the crankshaft. The timing belt drives the vehicle camshaft. Broken timing belts cause engine valves to remain open and can cause engine damage if 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.

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

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

vehicle vibrations
Side-to-side motion that causes a vehicle’s tires and steering wheel to shake is typically known as vehicle vibrations or car vibrations.

Also known as: car shaking, shimmying, car shimmy, car shaking

water pump
Auto water pumps are the engine pump that moves coolant (antifreeze) through the radiator and engine.