Visit Broward Auto Repair

Are you looking for quality auto repair in Broward County? Sometimes it’s hard to know which repair shops are going to be the best, especially if you’re new to the area. Before you choose a repair shop, first ask yourself what you would like done to your vehicle. Does it need general maintenance or repair? It’s important to understand the difference.

Maintenance vs. Repair

Routine maintenance items will be listed in your owner’s manual and should be done as part of the model’s service schedule. This maintenance is recommended to keep your vehicle in its best operating condition. 

Repairs, on the other hand, are services that are done to fix something that is not working correctly. Repairs can range from basic tasks such as fixing your vehicle’s brakes to a complicated service like overhauling a transmission or diagnosing a problem with the system’s electronics. Mechanics may specialize in different things, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for.

If the vehicle is no longer covered under warranty, the type of problem may determine where you take it as well. A reputable independent shop should be able to handle the most common repairs. However, it’s ideal to find a shop that specializes in your vehicle’s brand. They’ll be more likely to have the proper training, equipment, and up-to-date information that can take care of your vehicle. A good technician will let you know if your problem would be better suited for the dealership or a specialty shop.

Scheduled maintenance can be performed at any dealership, so you don’t have to go to the one where you bought the vehicle. You can also take your vehicle to an independent auto repair shop, which is usually much less costly than dealerships. Under federal law, it’s your right to service your vehicle wherever you like and it won’t impact your warranty coverage. The only possible exception to that rule is lessees may be required to have all service performed at a dealership, depending on the contract. 

When to Head to the Dealership…

  • Your car is covered by the original warranty and you want the manufacturer to pay to have it fixed. 
  • You heard about a safety recall or a “service campaign” in which the automaker offers to correct a defect. If you have an extended warranty, be sure to check the terms and conditions to see where it must go for the covered repairs.
  • You have questions about the manufacturer’s latest technical service bulletins (TSBs) or need TSB repairs. These are basic instructions on how to fix common problems with a particular model. TSB repairs are generally free, but you’ll have to get the work done at a dealership.
  • If you’re experiencing a system problem exclusive to your make or model (especially regarding electronics like the navigation or multi-function control system), consider taking the vehicle to a dealership. 

How to Find a Good Auto Repair Shop

Have a plan. Don’t wait for a breakdown or emergency situation to find a good auto repair shop. You don’t want your car hooked to the back of a tow truck with the driver asking, “Where to?” and you’re scrambling to make a decision. 

Consumers generally have a higher level of satisfaction with independent shops over car dealerships, based on customer satisfaction surveys. This could be because they get more personalized attention at a small auto body shop.

That being said, finding a mechanic you can trust for your car sometimes takes some research. You have to do a little investigating on your own. Here are some things to consider: 

Ask Family and Friends

Word of mouth is often the best way to go. It’s especially good to seek recommendations from people who have a vehicle similar to yours.

Find a Shop for Your Kind of Car

Auto repair shops often specialize in certain makes and models. Find a place that focuses on your type of vehicle; they’ll be more likely to have up-to-date training and the latest equipment to fix your vehicle.

Research Online

Check Angi (formerly known as Angie’s List) for information about local mechanics. The company prides itself on verifying all user reviews. Other good resources include Consumer Reports car repair estimator (free for Consumer Reports’ online subscribers), and the Mechanics Files at Cartalk.com. Cartalk.com provides those services free. 

Check Their Certifications

Your mechanic and auto repair shop should be certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence or ASE. Check if your auto repair shop is ASE-certified.

Check AAA’s Approved Auto Repair (AAR) Network

Even if you don’t have AAA, you can still choose a shop from their Approved Auto Repair network. This is a great way to find a qualified mechanic since all participating shops must offer 12-month/12,000-mile warranties on all repairs, have ASE certifications, or manufacturer-certified technicians who must pass an annual AAA inspection.

Check the Better Business Bureau

Auto repair shops rank 12th on the bureau’s list of common complaints. Figure out which shops you should avoid. The information you find from the BBB might just save you a costly service adventure!

Try Out a Local Shop

Before your car needs a big repair, try out your local shop and see how they do with smaller repairs or general maintenance items like an oil change or fixing a flat.

Make Sure the Shop is a Good Fit for You

Check the shop’s hours of operation and think about where it’s located. Even the best shop might not be worth the effort if its hours conflict with your schedule and you’re going to have trouble dropping off or picking up your car. If the shop is too far away, that’s also going to cause an inconvenience with transportation options.

Ask Your Mechanic Questions 

Before you hand over your keys at an unfamiliar auto body shop, ask your mechanic some questions to put your mind at ease. Here are a few suggestions of things you might want to ask: 

  • How many years have you been in business? 
  • Do you guarantee your work? What kinds of warranties do you offer?
  • What type of training do your mechanics have? Are they all ASE-certified? 
  • What types of parts do you use? (For example, they might use new, used, OEM, and/or after-market parts.)
  • Am I able to provide my own parts?
  • What types of vehicles or work do you specialize in?
  • Do you offer free estimates? Are those estimates guaranteed?
  • What types of inspections do I have to pay for?
  • Can you provide a loaner car while my vehicle is being worked on?
  • Do you have one standard labor rate or does it vary based on different times or different types of work?
  • What is your payment policy?

Quality Auto Repair in Broward CountyIf you’re looking for good quality auto repair in Broward County with trustworthy mechanics who are ASE-certified, contact Broward Auto Diagnostics & Repair.