Santa Cruz County – Auto Repair

When the work is done, your mechanic must give you a written invoice that includes the following:

• The name and physical address of the facility and its auto repair registration number.
• A list of all work completed, including warranty work.
• An itemized list of all replaced parts. This must state whether the new parts were OEM, aftermarket, new, used, salvaged or reconditioned auto parts.
• The total cost, including the amount charged for labor.
• Any relevant hazardous waste disposal fees and the shop’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) number.
• Your vehicle’s odometer reading at drop off and pick up, if you asked for it before signing the service agreement.

Remember, you’re permitted to see or keep any original parts, but only if you asked for them when you signed the estimate. Mechanics may not be able to return to you parts that are covered by warranty as they may need to be returned to the auto parts supplier, but you have the right to see them.

Before leaving the auto repair shop, confirm any warranties offered by the repair shop and the auto parts manufacturer. Not all vehicle repair shops guarantee their work. But those that do should give you a written document that details:

• The shop’s name and business address.
  
• Specific warranty coverage details such as whether the shop will replace or repair failed parts or give you a refund. All exclusions must be clearly written.
  
• Your liability in the case of parts malfunction and what you need to do in order to cash in any warranties.
  
• How long the warranty is applicable, and whether it concludes on a specific day, at a certain mileage count or if it is prorated.
  
• If you may transfer the automotive repair warranty coverage to the new owner in the event that you sell the motor vehicle.

Automotive repair shops in Santa Cruz County provide various vehicle maintenance and auto repair services. However, some repairs are more common than others. The following are the most common requests for local auto repair shops in and around Santa Cruz.

Routine Vehicle Maintenance
Also known as a tune-up, routine vehicle maintenance is the regular check-up schedule recommended by vehicle manufacturers. Routine maintenance usually includes checking and replacing air filters, fuel filters, auto cabin filters and spark plugs. Most mechanics in Santa Cruz County will also check, flush and refill auto fluids and ensure engine, exhaust and electrical systems are performing accurately. These routine vehicle checks help auto repair mechanics prevent pricey car repairs by repairing small problems before they become major car repairs.

Automobile Brake Repair
Brake repairs are a common request made of local auto repair mechanics in Scotts Valley, Capitola, Watsonville and throughout Santa Cruz County. This is because brakes wear down as you use them and need to be replaced in time. 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
  
• A brake pedal that is suddenly spongy or low-feeling
  
• Continuously-lit brake warning light
  
• Squealing or grinding when you depress the brake
  

Auto Electrical Repair
Late model vehicles are more computerized and complex, so it makes sense that auto electrical repairs are more common than ever before . Most auto electrical repairs are required for the alternator, 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.

Vehicle Brake Replacement
Like brake repair, auto brake replacements are common car repairs in Santa Cruz 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 lit Check Engine lights, vehicle engine problems also present as car sputtering, choking, fast or rough idling, slow acceleration or the vehicle not starting even though the ignition turns over. Because there is a wide range of engine problems that cause these symptoms, few car owners try do-it-yourself engine repairs. There are automobile mechanics throughout Santa Cruz County that concentrate on automotive engine repairs.

Auto Electrical Repairs
Auto electrical problems can be as simple as blown fuses or burned-out headlights or as serious as electrical problems that 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 Santa Cruz County.

Auto Fuel System Repairs
Clogged fuel pumps are a familiar problem for Santa Cruz County drivers who frequently 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 performed by expert car mechanics who have the knowledge and tools to clean, repair and replace fuel system components.

Auto Ignition System Repairs
Automobile ignition system repairs are those involving the car battery, vehicle starter and car ignition. New car starters and ignition replacements can be expensive, but they are necessary to guarantee that your car will start reliably.

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 well. Signs that may point to a problem with belts and hoses include squeaking under the hood, leaks, warning lights and engine overheating.

Mobile Auto Repair (Mobile Mechanic)
Mobile mechanic shops in Santa Cruz County are more and more popular. Instead of towing vehicles into local car repair shops, many customers have licensed mechanics come to them. From tune-ups and routine maintenance to auto electrical repairs and belt and hose replacement, mobile mechanics visit your home or place of business by appointment to service ailing vehicles.

The key auto repair terms and descriptions below can help you steer your way through your auto’s repair from beginning to end.

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

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 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

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 electrical repair
Auto repairs to the electrical system of a vehicle, including 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 services

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 underside 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.

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.

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, 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

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
Auto parts made by the vehicle producer. While they may cost more than aftermarket auto parts, OEM parts usually fit and perform better, last longer and have better warranties than other auto parts.

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, RPMs, revs, Rs

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 vehicle repair parts, but they usually don’t come with warranties because they haven’t been repaired or altered so their dependability can’t be assured. Salvage auto parts are often a final option for vehicle owners looking for hard-to-find parts for unusual 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 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 / car shaking
Shimmying is a side-to-side motion that causes a vehicle’s tires and steering wheel to shake while driving.

Also known as: car shaking, vehicle vibrations

sluggishness
When a vehicle does not accelerate smoothly or quickly enough.

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

suspension
Shock absorbers and auto springs that create a smoother ride by dampening the motion of a vehicle as it drives is known as the auto suspension system.

Also known as: suspension system, vehicle 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 extensive engine damage when the valve is struck and bent by a piston.

Also known as: auto timing belt, main belt

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.

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

Also known as: auto water pump, car water pump, cooling pump, radiator pump

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

Q: What rights do I have in Santa Cruz County when it comes to automotive repair?
A: The Automotive Repair Act of 1974 entitles all customers to a written estimate for all repair work, detailed invoices that list work done and parts supplied, and the return of the old auto parts if customers request their return when placing the work order. For more information, visit the Bureau of Auto Repair website.

Q: Is it a good idea to choose an auto repair shop that is certified by national car associations and automotive organizations?
A: While certifications don’t guarantee you’ll get better repairs or improved service at Santa Cruz County vehicle repair centers, they are often an gauge of how serious an auto repair shop is about satisfying customers and performing dependable repairs. Certifications such as ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and memberships in automotive service associations show that the car mechanics have sought after and accomplished higher levels of professionalism than the competition

Q: What are Original Equipment Manufacturer automotive parts?
A: OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer that created the original auto parts in your vehicle. Most automobile manufacturers do not build auto parts, instead they rely on external companies to devise and create the parts. After a time, these OEM parts are accessible through wholesale distributors. Once available through auto part wholesalers in Santa Cruz County, OEM parts are often less expensive than when sold through the auto parts 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 Watsonville, Scott’s Valley, Santa Cruz, Capitola and other areas of Santa Cruz County use aftermarket parts to lower the price of their repairs, so ask your car mechanic what type of parts they recommend and install. However, some aftermarket parts have been redesigned to fit or function even better than OEM parts, so your auto repair shop may suggest them as a substitute based on functionality rather than 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 Santa Cruz County install them to make car repairs less expensive. However, some aftermarket parts aren’t the same quality as original manufacturer parts, so they can end up costing you money 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 the specific auto parts they do. 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 Santa Cruz County?
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 Watsonville, Scott’s Valley, Capitola, Santa Cruz and the rest of Santa Cruz County and the South Bay. Local independent repair shops can use any brand or quality of parts. They’re also able to install used or salvage parts based on customers’ preferences. This, along with the fact that they typically have lower hourly charges for car repairs, can mean big savings.

However, dealerships can have an edge in training on newer makes and models, as their car repair technicians are usually taught 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: Car repairs and routine maintenance are so expensive. Can’t I save money by going to a discount auto repair garage in Santa Cruz County?
A: While it may look like you’re saving money by going to a cheaper auto repair shop, keep in mind that margins are often tight for auto repairs and there are only a few ways shops can offer prices dramatically lower than the competition’s. They may install used or salvage parts instead of new OEM / Original Equipment Manufacture parts. They may also hire inexperienced mechanics. 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. Some auto repair shops have even been known to advertise low hourly rates, but purposely take longer to repair your car, leaving you with a much higher bill than if you would have gone to a shop with more experienced technicians.

Q: Is it necessary to take my car to a local repair shop for regular maintenance?
A: It may seem that regularly scheduled maintenance is pointless, especially when your vehicle is running well. However, it’s the easiest and most cost-effective way to keep your car running and avoid pricey repairs down the road. Your car’s maintenance schedule should be listed in the owner’s manual, and your local Santa Cruz County auto repair shop can help you settle on a timeline for regular tune-ups and maintenance visits.