When the car repairs are completed, your mechanic is required by law to give you a written invoice that includes:

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

You have the right to have original car parts returned to you, but you must ask for them when you sign the estimate. Vehicle mechanics may not be able to return parts that are under warranty as they may need to ship them to the auto parts supplier for warranty purposes, but you always have the right to see the parts to verify damage.

Before leaving your auto repair shop with your vehicle, confirm the warranties offered by the repair shop and the parts manufacturer. Warranties can be voided or your ability to demand appropriate warranty coverage on repairs can be limited if you don’t confirm warranties before leaving the premises.

Not all auto repair shops guarantee their work. However, those that do must give you a written warranty document that details:

• The car repair shop’s name and physical address.
• Parts covered by warranty and the extent of that coverage, including whether the shop will replace or repair failed parts or give you a refund in the event of parts failure. All exclusions must be explicitly stated.
• Your responsibility in the case of product failure, including actions you must take in order to redeem the warranty.
• How long the warranty is valid, whether it expires on a specific day and time, or if it is prorated.
• If the automotive repair warranty coverage is transferable if you sell the repaired vehicle, and what steps need to be taken to transfer the warranty.

Car repair shops in Contra Costa County provide all types of maintenance and automotive repair services for vans, trucks, cars and minivans. The following are the most common requests handled by local auto repair shops in Contra Costa County, including those in Antioch, Pittsburg, Walnut Creek, Concord, El Cerrito, Danville and Richmond and the surrounding areas.

Auto Electrical Repair
Auto electrical repairs become more common as vehicles become more computerized and complex. Most auto electrical repairs in Contra Costa County are for alternator repairs, the component that continually charges your car 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 may be electrical in nature.

Routine Vehicle Maintenance
Routine vehicle maintenance is the regular check-up schedule recommended by vehicle manufacturers at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 mile intervals. Routine maintenance for cars usually involves replacing fuel filters, cabin filters, air filters, spark plugs and other heavy-wear items. Many good car mechanics in Contra Costa County will also check and refill auto fluids and ensure that the engine, exhaust and electrical systems are functioning properly. Routine vehicle maintenance checks, also known as a car tune up, help prevent expensive car repairs by fixing small issues before they become big problems.

Automobile Brake Repair
Brake repairs are a common request made of local auto repair mechanics in Antioch, Martinez, Brentwood and all throughout Contra Costa 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

Vehicle Brake Replacement
Like brake repair, auto brake replacements are common car repairs in Contra Costa 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 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 wide range of engine problems that can cause these symptoms, you’re wise to not attempt do-it-yourself engine repairs. Instead, call one of the many good automobile mechanics throughout Contra Costa County that specialize in automotive engine repairs.

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, leaks, warning lights and engine overheating.

Mobile Auto Repair (Mobile Mechanic)
Mobile mechanic shops in Contra Costa County including those in Piedmont, Livermore, Antioch and Castro Valley 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 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.

Auto Electrical Repairs
Auto electrical problems can be as simple as blown fuses or burned-out headlights or serious enough electrical problems to 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 Contra Costa County.

Auto Fuel System Repairs
Clogged fuel pumps are a common problem for Contra Costa County drivers who regularly run on less than ¼ tank of fuel. Other auto fuel system problems include clogged fuel filters, engine flooding and 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.

Below are key auto repair terms used at most Contra Costa County car repair shops, including descriptions that will help you navigate your way through your auto’s repair.

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, car air filter replacements, auto cabin air filters

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

auto repair shop
An automotive repair shop that maintain and repair the internal working parts of automobiles. Some Contra Costa County 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 in Contra Costa County are general repair garages that do all types of maintenance and service repairs.

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

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

Also known as: AWD, allwheel drive

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

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

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.

Also known as: crank case, crank-case

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

Also known as: crank shaft, crank

differential
The differential is gear system that allows one wheel to rotate faster than the other, and it is important for steering, turning and cornering.

Also known as: rear differential

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

Also known as: repair for domestic cars, American-made car repairs, domestic automobile repair

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 Contra Costa County perform repairs and maintenance on vehicles manufactured by foreign car companies, including some automobiles 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, 4×4, 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, front wheel drive, frontwheel drive

fuel injection repairs
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), fuel injection system repairs

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 motionless and running.

Also known as: idling, slow idle, fast idling, automotive idling, fast motor idle speed, fast idling, car idling fast

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
Contra Costa County mechanics who repair vehicles on-site are considered mobile auto repair services. Mobile auto repair shops in Concord, Richmond, Walnut Creek, Pittsburg and Antioch 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, stock auto 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

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, engine idling roughly, rough engine idling, rough idle repairs

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 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 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, auto shimmying

sluggish performance
When a vehicle does not accelerate smoothly or quickly enough it’s said to be sluggish or have sluggish performance.

Also known as: auto hesitation, vehicle loss of power, sluggish automotive performance

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, auto suspension

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 the car and creates the framework.

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

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

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

Also known as: car water pump, car coolant pump

The following are questions often asked by customers of auto repair garages in Contra Costa county.

Q: Why should I choose a Diamond Certified Auto Repair Shop?
A: We end the guessing game by offering a list of top-rated local companies that have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Most companies can’t pass, so only local auto repair shops rated Highest in Quality earn the Diamond Certified award. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with in-depth and ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified auto body shop for your vehicle repair.

Q: Is it a good idea to choose a local auto repair shop that has certifications?
A: While certifications don’t guarantee you’ll get better repairs or better service at the Contra Costa County vehicle repair centers that hold them, they are often an indicator of how serious the auto repair shop is about satisfying customers and doing good auto repairs. Certifications such as ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and memberships in automotive service organizations show that the car mechanics have sought and attained a higher level of professionalism. Diamond Certified is also a certification that many consumers look to for vetted, safe choices for vehicle repair shops.

Q: What rights do I have as a car repair consumer in Contra Costa County?
A: The Automotive Repair Act of 1974 entitles all auto repair customers to written estimates for all vehicle repair work, a detailed invoice that lists all work done and an itemized parts list, and the return of the old car parts if customers request their return when placing the work order. For more information, visit the Bureau of Auto Repair website.

Q: Should I request my Contra Costa County auto repair shop install OEM parts or aftermarket auto parts?
A: Because aftermarket parts are often cheaper than OEM parts, some auto repair garages in Contra Costa County install them to make car repairs less expensive. However, aftermarket parts may not be the same quality as original manufacturer parts, so you’ll have to repair or replace them sooner. And aftermarket parts can cause expensive damage to your vehicle if they don’t fit properly. However, some aftermarket auto parts are designed to fit and function better than original parts. Your mechanic should be able to explain why they recommend certain auto parts. If it’s to provide cheap auto repairs, you may be at an advantage by requesting OEM parts. But aftermarket parts may be a wise choice if it’s for better performance.

Q: What are OEM auto parts?
A: OEM auto parts, also known as Original Equipment Manufacturer parts, are made by the same manufacturer that produced the original auto parts in your vehicle. Most automobile manufacturers rely on outside companies to design and produce auto parts. After a certain time, these OEM parts are available through wholesale car parts distributors. Once available through auto part wholesalers in Contra Costa County, OEM parts can be much less expensive than when sold through the car dealer.

Q: What are aftermarket auto parts?
A: Aftermarket parts are those not produced by the original parts manufacturer, but are made to perform and fit like the original parts. Aftermarket parts may look or feel different than original parts since they’re manufactured on different equipment. Because of this, aftermarket parts are often less expensive than OEM parts.
Some auto repair shops in San Ramon, Concord, Walnut Creek and other areas of Contra Costa County use aftermarket parts to lower the price of their repairs, so it’s important to ask your car mechanic what type of parts they’re installing. However, some aftermarket parts have been carefully redesigned to fit and function better than OEM parts, so your auto repair shop may recommend them as a good alternative.

Q: What is the difference between independent auto repair shops in Contra Costa County and car dealership repair shops?
A: Which shop you choose for vehicle maintenance and car repairs is a personal decision based on where your car receives the best repair service and where you feel most comfortable. However, there are differences between independent auto repair shops and vehicle dealership repair centers located in Richmond, Pittsburg and the rest of Contra Costa County. Local independent repair shops have the freedom to use any brand or quality of parts they choose. They’re also able to install used or salvage parts based on the customers’ preferences. This, along with the fact that they usually have lower hourly rates for car repairs, can mean big savings. However, auto dealership repair shops may have an edge in repairing newer makes and models, as their car repair technicians are usually trained in maintenance and repair methods long before classes are offered to independent shops. Many newer cars are also still under warranty, meaning some repairs can be done free at a dealership. In fact, in some cases, warranty repairs at independent automotive repair shops can void warranties.

Q: Is it really important to take my car to a local repair shop for regularly scheduled maintenance?
A: Regularly-scheduled auto maintenance may seem unnecessary, especially when your vehicle is running well. However, it’s the most cost-effective way to avoid expensive car repairs in the future. Your car’s maintenance schedule should be listed in the owner’s manual, and your Contra Costa County auto repair shop, including those in San Ramon, Pittsburg, Alamo, Antioch, Orinda and San Pablo can help you decide when your car is due for regular tune-ups and vehicle maintenance visits.

Q: Can I save money by hiring a discount auto repair garage in Contra Costa County for car repairs and routine vehicle maintenance?
A: It may only look like you’re saving money by going to a cheaper auto repair shop. Keep in mind that margins are tight for most auto repairs and there are only a few ways shops can offer dramatically lower prices than the competition. They may install used auto parts or salvage parts, or they may hire mechanics that don’t have much auto repair experience. This might make their rates seem lower, but you can end up having to replace parts sooner and can even cause lasting damage to your vehicle, costing you more down the road. Some auto repair shops have been known to advertise low rates, but take longer to repair your car and leave you with a higher bill than if you had simply gone to a shop with experienced technicians.