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Finding a good mechanic is more difficult than finding a good doctor. In a way they're both doctors; one works to repair you and the other works to repair your car. You get to check out and see your doctor's credentials, but you don't get to see your mechanic's credentials.

What you should always keep in mind before looking for a mechanic is that if your car is still under manufacture warranty, you must take your car to an authorized dealer in order for the car to remain under warranty. There are emergency exceptions to this rule, but they are rare.

Word of mouth is generally the best method of finding a good mechanic. If that isn't possible, look for for a certified mechanic. Sometimes, you come upon the mechanic by accident. Suppose you need a headlight fixed or a fuse installed, speak with the mechanic and watch how he deals with other customers.

I found a good mechanic by having a tire changed. While I was waiting for him to get to my tire, he was talking to another customer. I talked to the other customer, while the mechanic was fixing the leak in my tire. It happened that he was a long time customer and heartily recommended the mechanic who was fixing my tire.

Shade tree mechanics are a thing of the past with the new computerized cars and the complexity of the engine electronics. Look for established businesses with well known brands.

Pep Boys fixed an electronic problem in my Toyota a few years back. They had to have the wiring diagram sent to them from New York before they could work on it, so I had to wait an extra day.

When they received the diagram, instead of doing costly rewiring, the mechanic soldered the wire and I had no more problems for the next two years that I owned the car. What could have been a costly repair was repaired satisfactorily at little expense. It was worth the wait and I was impressed with their honesty.

I've dealt with car manufacturer dealers who charge $150.00 to look at and diagnose a problem. I don't know about you, but that price is a little too steep for me, especially when the car is still under warranty.

Read your car manual. It will tell you what is covered and what is not and where you need to go for repairs. You and I, as consumers have to stay on our toes at all times.

When you find the right mechanic, hang on to him (or her) and tell your friends.

Learn more about this author, Mona Gallagher.
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