Santa Clara – Auto Repair

Before you drop off your vehicle at a local Santa Clara County auto repair shop or have it towed in for car repairs, call and talk directly with the service manager to see if the shop offers the repair services you need. It’s smart to have a prepared list of questions and to take note of 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. Chevrolet, Kia, Ford, Honda, Toyota, BMW, Lexus, Volkswagen, etc.)?
  
• Are your auto repair technicians certified?
  
• Is this a common car problem for my make and model?
  
• What grade of replacement auto parts do you use? (OEM [Original Equipment Manufacturer] parts, used parts or salvaged parts?)
  
• Will your automotive repair shop honor any warranties currently covering my vehicle?
  
• Will these car repairs affect my manufacturer's warranty?
  
• Will you give me a written, itemized estimate for all vehicle repairs?
  
• How do you figure the price auto repairs at your shop? (Flat fee, time and materials or another method?)
  
• What car repair warrantees and auto part guarantees? Are there any exceptions?
  
• I live in _____ (San Jose, Sunnyvale, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Gilroy, Santa Clara, Los Gatos, Morgan Hill, Sunnyvale, etc.). Do you offer courtesy cars or rental vehicles while my car is in the shop?
  
• How long has your auto repair shop been open in Santa Clara County?

Independent research and scientific surveys can assure you that the auto repair facilities in Santa Clara County you’ve interviewed are all they say they are.

In fact, 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 Santa Clara County and the greater Bay Area, you’ll have confidence when choosing Diamond Certified companies. All Diamond Certified companies have Diamond Certified reports you can read, including verbatim survey responses. And 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 conduct some research. Even if you’re in a hurry to get your vehicle repairs done right away, it is still a good idea to take time to check references. If you do, auto repair shops in Santa Clara County should be willing to give you a list of recent customers you can call. However, 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 shops rarely randomly select references, and are likely just giving you the names of a few satisfied customers to call. So specifically ask for a list of their 10 most recent clients and call them.

You’ll want to ask general questions about their customer service experience as well as specific questions about the car repairs. Such questions might include:

• What auto repairs did you have _(auto repair facility name_) do?
  
• Were you satisfied with the car repairs from this Santa Clara County auto repair shop?
  
• Was the auto shop willing to tow your car or truck to their auto repair garage if you live in a smaller town such as Alviso, Monte Sereno, Permanente, Redwood Estates or Coyote or in rural Santa Clara County,?
  
• Were you pleased with the auto repair technicians’ turn-around time?
  
• Did the auto repair mechanics and service writers listen to and communicate with you?
  
• Was the price was fair for the car repairs you had done?
  
• What did you like best about this Santa Clara County automotive repair shop?
  
• Would you recommend this auto repair garage?
  
• Would you go back to this car repair facility if your vehicle needed additional work?

Once you’ve selected a local Santa Clara County auto repair shop for regular vehicle maintenance, it will give you peace of mind while dealing with your mechanics even when you’re facing unexpected repairs.

Whether your car needs emergency repairs or routine maintenance service, you’ll want to meet with the service writer in person. Use the notes you took to accurately describe the concerns you have and what you’re experiencing. Be as detailed as possible, and don’t let the auto technician or service writer rush you. It’s important to answer their questions and listen to their plan of action. If you don’t understand what the vehicle repair shop representative is telling you, ask for an explanation. You should to completely grasp the problem and the solutions before signing an estimate.

By law, shops are required to provide a written estimate before the work begins. This estimate must include the total expected cost for parts and labor, an itemized list of needed auto parts and the method of repair. Your mechanic should never ask you to sign a blank or incomplete work order.

Sometimes a thorough diagnosis is needed before a repair shop can give you an accurate estimate. In this case, the estimate the shop asks you to sign may include only the cost of the diagnosis, or the car repair diagnosis and estimated auto repair labor cost. However, if the actual auto repair costs exceed the original estimate, the technicians must contact you before performing those repairs.

Sign a Contract with Your Vehicle Repair Shop for Auto Repair Work
When you’re satisfied with the information your Santa Clara County repair shop has given you and ready to move forward with the repairs, sign the estimate and service agreement. Verify that the service manager has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while your vehicle is in the shop. They must get your approval for any additional repairs, and it can slow down or even stop progress on your car, truck or van if they can’t reach you to get consent. Your approval for added work must be noted on the estimate and the invoice.

Once they’ve identified the problem and needed repairs, most Santa Clara County mechanics including those in the larger cities of San Jose, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara and Milpitas will allow you to see the damaged auto parts. Remember, you have the legal right to ask to have damaged parts returned to you when signing the service request.

When the vehicle repairs are done, your mechanic is required to give you a written invoice that includes:

• The name and physical address of the shop.
  
• Their state 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.
  
• The total auto repair cost, including the amount charged for auto repair labor.
  
• Any applicable hazardous waste disposal fees and the shop’s EPA (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 permitted to have original parts returned to you, but only if you asked for them when you signed the auto repair estimate. Mechanics may not be able to return parts that are under warranty as they may need to be sent back to the supplier, but you still have the right to view them and confirm the damage or wear.

Automotive repair shops in Santa Clara County 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 Repair
Most auto electrical repairs are alternator repairs and vehicle starter repairs. Experts recommend examining your complete auto electrical system every two years and whenever you experience drivability problems that appear to be electrical in nature.

Routine Vehicle Maintenance
Routine vehicle maintenance is also known as a tune-up. It is the regular vehicle check-up schedule recommended by manufacturers. It is usually recommended at 30-, 60-, and 90,000 mile intervals. Routine maintenance usually includes checking and replacing car air filters, fuel filters, vehicle cabin filters and auto spark plugs. Checking, flushing and refilling auto fluid and ensure the engine, exhaust and electrical systems are functioning correctly are often included. These routine vehicle maintenance checks allow auto repair mechanics to help prevent expensive car repairs.

Vehicle Brake Replacement
Full brake replacements, including replacing the brake disc, drum and rotor can be costly, but may be necessary if you’ve been driving on worn or damaged brakes that have warped or damaged the brake system.

Automobile Brake Repair
Brake repairs are a common request made of local auto repair mechanics in Santa Clara, Campbell, Gilroy and all throughout Santa Clara County. This is because brakes wear down as you use them. Most brake repairs are simple replacements of the brake pads, and are relatively inexpensive. Because you rely on them to stop your car on time, brakes should be checked regularly, especially if you experience any of these signs:

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

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 Santa Clara County that specialize in automotive engine repairs.

Auto Belt and Hose Repair
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, leaks, warning lights and engine overheating. If you see or hear any of these problems, it may indicate that your auto belts or auto hoses should be checked.

Mobile Mechanic (Mobile Auto Repair)
Mobile mechanic shops in Santa Clara County are popular. Instead of towing vehicles to their 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 workplace by appointment to service your vehicle.

Auto Ignition Repairs
Automobile ignition system repairs include battery, starter and car ignition replacements. Car starters and ignitions can be expensive, but they are necessary in order to guarantee your car will start reliably.

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

Auto Fuel System Repairs
Clogged fuel pumps are a common problem for Santa Clara County drivers who regularly run on low fuel. Other auto fuel system problems are clogged fuel filters, flooded engines and choking sounds. Auto fuel system repairs are best done by professional car mechanics who have the experience and tools to clean, repair and replace fuel system components.

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

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. 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

automobile 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, auto repair shop, auto repair garage

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

Also known as: catcon, cat

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

differential
The differential is important for turning and cornering. 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 (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.

filter
A paper or synthetic filter that blocks dust, dirt and debris as air enters the engine is known as a vehicle air filter.

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

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 in Santa Clara County perform auto 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

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.

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
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.

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 auto parts
Auto parts taken from recycled vehicles are called salvage parts. These are often cheap car repair parts, but they usually don’t come with warranties because 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 belt repair / replacement
Serpentine belts are also called multi-vee or multi-rib belts. They are a long, continuous belt 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

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

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.

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.

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

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

Visit the websites of these national and local auto repair center associations and consumer agencies for more information about car, truck and van repairs in your area of Santa Clara County, including the largest cities of San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Mountain View, Milpias, Palo Alto, Cupertino, Gilroy, Campbell and Morgan Hill.

American Automobile Association (AAA) (http://www.aaa.com/)
Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine (AAAM) (http://www.carcrash.org/)
Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) (http://www.aftermarket.org/)
California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) (http://www.autorepair.ca.gov/)
California Service Station and Automotive Repair Association (CSSARA) (http://www.cssara.org/)
Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) (http://www.i-car.com/)
Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) (http://www.jama.org/)
Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) (http://www.mema.org/)
Alliance Of Automotive Service Providers (AASP) (http://www.autoserviceproviders.com/)
Automotive Composites Alliance (ACA) (http://www.autocomposites.org/)
Association of Diesel Specialists (ADS) (http://www.diesel.org/)
Engine Builders Association (AERA) (www.aera.org)
Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) (http://www.aiag.org/)
Automotive Recycler's Association (ARA) (http://www.a-r-a.org/)
Automotive Service Association (ASA) (http://www.asashop.org/)
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) (http://www.asecert.org/)
American Salvage Pool Association (ASPA) (http://www.aspa.com/)
Automotive Warehouse Distributor Association (AWDA) (http://www.awda.org/)