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.

Before leaving the auto repair shop, confirm warranty coverage offered by the repair shop or the parts manufacturer on the repairs and new auto parts your vehicle received. This written warranty must include:

• The auto repair shop’s name and physical address.
• What the warranty covers, including whether the shop will replace or repair failed parts or give you a refund.
• Any exclusions must be explicitly stated.
• Your responsibility in the case of product failure, including what you need to do to redeem the warranty.
• How long the warranty is valid, whether it expires on a specific day or if it is prorated.
• If you can transfer the automotive repair warranty coverage to the new owner in the event that you sell the vehicle.

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’s 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 air filters, 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’re 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 they 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 the auto repair process from beginning to end at shops in San Francisco.

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

antifreeze
Liquid in the cooling system that disperses heat is known as antifreeze. 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 repair 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
Four-wheel drive 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

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, auto hesitation

horsepower
Mechanical horsepower is the amount of energy produced by a vehicle’s engine, and is generally defined at 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 onsite 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

Q: Why should I choose a Diamond Certified auto repair shop in San Francisco?
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. In fact, most vehicle repair shops can’t pass, so only local auto repair shops rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® 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: What rights do I have as a consumer in San Francisco when it comes to automotive repair?
A: The Automotive Repair Act of 1974 entitles all auto repair shop customers to a written estimate, detailed invoices, and the return of the old auto parts if customers request their return before the work is performed. For more information about your rights as a consumer, visit the Bureau of Auto Repair’s website.

Q: Why choose San Francisco area auto repair shops that are certified?
A: While certifications don’t guarantee you’ll get better repairs or better service at San Francisco vehicle repair centers, they are often an indicator of how serious an auto repair shop is about satisfying customers and performing reliable 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.

Q: What are OEM auto parts?
A: OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer that produced the original auto parts in your vehicle. Most automobile manufacturers do not make auto parts; instead, they rely on outside companies to design and produce the parts. After a certain time, these OEM parts are available for resale through wholesale distributors. Once available through auto part wholesalers in San Francisco, OEM parts are often much less expensive than when sold through the dealer.

Q: What are aftermarket auto parts?
A: Aftermarket parts are not produced by the original parts manufacturer, but they 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 Excelsior District, Sunset District, Tenderloin and other areas of San Francisco 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 redesigned to fit or function even better than OEM parts, so your auto repair shop may recommend them as an alternative based on functionality rather than low price.

Q: Is there a reason I should request OEM parts instead of aftermarket auto parts?
A: Because aftermarket parts are often cheaper than OEM parts, some auto repair garages in San Francisco install them to make car repairs less expensive. However, some aftermarket parts are lower quality than the original manufacturer parts, so they can end up costing you in the long run because you’ll have to repair or replace them sooner. And, if the aftermarket parts don’t fit correctly, they can even cause expensive damage to your vehicle.

However, some aftermarket parts are designed to fit and function better than original parts. Your mechanic should be able to explain why they recommend specific auto parts. If it’s to provide cheap auto repairs, you may be better off requesting OEM parts. But if it’s for better performance, aftermarket parts may be a wise choice.

Q: Is there a difference between independent auto repair shops and dealership repair shops in San Francisco?
A: Where you take your vehicle for maintenance and repairs is a personal decision based on where you feel most comfortable and where your car receives the best repair service. However, there are differences between independent auto repair shops and dealerships located in Richmond District, Bernal Heights and the rest of San Francisco. Local independent repair shops have the freedom to use any brand or quality of parts they choose. They’re can install used or salvage parts based on their customers’ preferences. This, along with the fact that they usually have lower hourly rates for car repairs, can mean big savings.

However, dealerships may have an edge when it comes to training on newer makes and models, as their car repair technicians are usually trained in maintenance and repair methods months and even years before those classes are available to independent shops. Many newer cars are also still under warranty, meaning some repairs can be done for free at a dealership. In fact, in some cases, having warranty repairs done at an independent automotive repair shop can void any further warranties.

Q: Is it really important to take my car to a local repair shop for regularly scheduled maintenance?
A: It may seem that regularly scheduled maintenance is unnecessary, especially when your vehicle is running well. However, it’s the easiest and most cost-effective way to keep your car running and avoid expensive repairs in the future. Your car’s maintenance schedule should be listed in your owner’s manual, and your local San Francisco auto repair shop can help you decide when your car is due for regular tune-ups and maintenance visits.

Q: Car repairs and routine maintenance are so expensive—can’t I save money by going to a discount auto repair shop in San Francisco?
A: Margins are often tight for auto repair shops and there are only a few ways car repair centers can offer prices considerably lower than the competition. To lower prices, shops may install used car parts or salvage parts instead of new parts. They may also hire mechanics that aren’t certified or who are auto repair novices. This might make their rates seem lower in the short term, but you can end up replacing your car parts sooner and can even cause lasting damage to your vehicle, costing you much more in the future. Some auto repair shops have even been known to advertise low hourly rates, but purposely take longer to repair your car.