Watch out for these potential auto mechanic scams

Watch out for these potential auto mechanic scams

Whenever you take your vehicle to an auto mechanic, you need to have reasonable assurance that they're reputable and trustworthy, instead of taking your car to someone who's waiting to show you one of numerous different auto mechanic scams. You need to always research your mechanic ahead of time. However, being prepared with knowledge of some of the sneaky car repair tricks that many mechanics use can help you keep away from being scammed. Here are some things look for, and none of them require much more than some basic automotive knowledge. Thanks to WalletPop for some great ideas.

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Watch for the spit-and-polish auto mechanic scams

Most auto mechanic scams depend upon a customer's lack of automotive knowledge, and this one is no exception. A mechanic may say that a part needs to be exchanged, but they may remove it, clean it up, then simply put it back on the car so that it looks brand new. Common targets are batteries, oil filters, and radiators. A variation on this scam could be the mechanic claims they exchanged your old part with a refurbished part. This means they really did nothing. If you are able to take the car home first before having repairs done, you can try to mark the part in question with a small dab of paint that isn't easy to spot unless someone knows it is there. You need to see the purchase order for new parts and the old ones. Match the new part with the info within the receipt. It was a scam if you discover paint on the part.

Manic maintenance

Always follow manufacturer suggested intervals for standard maintenance. Check your owner's manual. The manufacturers know your vehicle model better than any person, so their recommended specs are likely to help you a lot. If a mechanic tries to get you to agree to an oil change, flush or other repair faster than you might actually need it, you'll have reason for suspicion. Just to be safe, bring your owner's manual with you when you take your car in for maintenance or repair.

Don't let them charge you for guesswork

If you've ever paid for auto repair that didn't address the real problem, this tip is for you. Hold your mechanic to a high standard of accountability. If they failed to fix it the first time, demand a refund. Try a different mechanic if problems persist.

Think about your dipstick

Check your oil via the dipstick before you go in for repairs. Do this because this will remind you to look at for an old nickel-and-dime trick some mechanics use. They'll only insert the dipstick in part of the way, which will give a lower reading. Sure, it may only be $5 or $10, but that's something. Also, watch for the detached spark plug trick – it could conserve you from unnecessary engine exploratory work. When there, don’t get new power steering. According to WalletPop, no auto manufacturer recommends this service.

Doubled over with labor

Repair jobs lead to other repair jobs sometimes. Some auto mechanic scams will center on this common occurrence by doubling your labor charge. If you are quoted one labor cost, that's what you should pay in many cases. The mechanic still needs to make money off their time if the job is big. Communicate with your mechanics and make sure they spell out whether or not additional labor charges will be incurred before you give your consent to proceed.

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