How To Avoid Garage Rip Offs

3) Check your mechanic's certification
Unfortunately, not all mechanics are fully qualified. Some repair shops hire both certified and uncertified mechanics. Furthermore, not all mechanics are fully versed in every area of car repair. It's entirely possible that a mechanic who specialises in air conditioning may end up doing the work on your muffler.

Be sure to confirm that technicians are fully qualified by an organisation such as the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) or British Standards Institute (BSI). Request that the name of the mechanic who works on your car is listed on your invoice.

4) Get a second opinion
Always ask your mechanic to ring you and tell you about the specifics of the work that they feel needs to be done on your car before they begin. If you don't feel confident about the work that they claim the car needs, make sure you take the car to another garage for a second opinion.

5) Power to the people
Often the best way to find a trustworthy mechanic is by word of mouth. Ask around your friends, family and co-workers, particularly those who are car savvy, and see if they have any recommendations for decent mechanics in your area. With some mechanics at franchised dealers charging up to £120 an hour, it might even be worth going out of your way to drive to someone you can trust at a reasonable rate.

6) After the work is done
Make sure you are provided with a full and comprehensive breakdown of the work that was done on your car. This should be broken down into parts, labour and VAT.

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