Auto Repair FAQs
Do you have questions about your upcoming auto repair appointment or auto repair in general? You’re not alone. Below, we answer several frequently asked questions about auto repair, as well as hiring and working with an auto repair shop.
Q: What are my rights as an auto repair customer?
A: The Automotive Repair Act of 1974 entitles all customers in California 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’s website.
Q: What are OEM auto parts?
A: Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are made by the same manufacturer that produced the original parts in your vehicle. Most automobile manufacturers don’t 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.
Q: What are aftermarket auto parts?
A: Aftermarket parts are not produced by the original parts manufacturer, but they’re 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 use aftermarket parts to lower the price of their repairs, so it’s important to ask your mechanic about the 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: Should I ask my auto repair shop to install OEM parts instead of aftermarket parts?
A: Aftermarket parts are often cheaper than OEM parts, so auto repair shops can install them to make repairs less expensive or at a customer’s request. However, aftermarket parts aren’t always the same quality as OEM parts, so you may have to repair or replace them sooner. And aftermarket parts that don’t fit correctly can even cause vehicle damage. Your mechanic should be able to explain why they recommend certain 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 an intelligent choice.
Q: Is there a difference between independent auto repair shops and dealership repair shops ?
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 service. However, there are differences between independent auto repair shops and dealerships. 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 salvaged 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, dealership repair technicians are usually trained in maintenance and repair methods months and even years before those classes are available to independent shops. Many late model cars are also still under warranty, so some repairs can be done for free at a dealership. In fact, in many cases, having warranty repairs done at an independent auto 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 most cost-effective way to keep your car running and avoid expensive future repairs. Your car’s maintenance schedule should be listed in your owner’s manual, and your auto repair shop can help you decide when your car is due for regular tune-ups and maintenance visits.
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 and Helpful Expertise® earn Diamond Certified. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with in-depth, 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 repair shop.
Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.
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