Are you in the market for an auto repair shop? Maybe you moved to a new area, or your car is in need of services that aren’t offered where you normally get an oil change.
There are many autoshops across Northern Virginia but the key is to find one that you can trust your vehicle (and wallet) with.
What to look for in an auto repair shop
As you check out a shop or think about settling down roots, keep these things in mind:
Working on a Boys and Girls Club bus
Community support: Is the auto repair shop giving back to the community? Does it support local non-profits or initiatives?
Certifications and licenses: When walking around the waiting room, do you see any certifications on the walls or a list of Virginia state inspectors? Aside from state and emissions inspections, automotive technicians and service advisors can earn Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications. They may receive training on safety and BG services, as well.
Customer service: When talking to a Service Advisor or front counter person, how do they speak to you? Do they listen to your concerns? If you’re experiencing a problem, talking to someone who hears you out may help set your mind at ease.
Decision-making: Sometimes, you just need an oil change or state inspection. At other visits, repairs may be recommended to address a problem. Do you feel like the decision is in your hands?
Knowledge: Are the employees able to answer your questions or – if they don’t know – are they willing to look into them for you? Can they explain services in a way you would understand?
Location: For many drivers, location plays a key part. Is the shop you’re considering near your house or work? If it’s a bit out of your way, could you receive a shuttle ride so you can accomplish tasks while your car is being worked on?
Apprentice Technician performing a brake fluid exchange
Services: Would the shop be able to provide different types of maintenance services your vehicle might eventually need? Being able to handle multiple needs at one place can be convenient.
Transparency: Does the auto repair shop offer digital vehicle inspections or share photos and videos about the health of your vehicle? This can show you that there is truth behind the suggestions and you aren’t being sold unnecessary repairs.
If you’re looking for a shop
Are you trying to find an auto repair shop but don’t know which ones to look into? Try asking coworkers, friends and family members who live near you. They may be able to give you a recommendation and share from their own experiences.
Checking out their reviews online or looking at their website or social media platforms could also provide you with valuable insight.
You can also give an autoshop you’re considering a call to ask basic questions about the services they offer and see how they talk on the phone.
Every driver will have different priorities when trying to figure out what businesses they’d like to go to. When it’s all said and done, you should choose a place where you feel comfortable and you know will take care of your car.
Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located near Manassas, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.
