Saving Money on Car Repairs

Read the vehicle's manual, specifically the maintenance section. I made a spreadsheet for mine, which reinforced what the "normal" maintenance intervals were for what; in months and miles, as it's "whatever comes first." I use a sticky note to write what year/month and mileage to do the upcoming maintenance items. I cross them out and replacing with the next due date for as long as I can use that same sticky!

Of course, not driving as often keeps maintenance costs down. Grouping your trips together helps as well. It's those short little trips that don't allow the fluids to get up to operating temperature.

Dealers are typically more expensive than independent shops, but they're not necessarily bad. There are good people and honest mechanics at both, and there are pushy up-sellers and shady mechanics at both. In either case, if you find someone who seems honest and you can trust, stick with them. I go to one near my workplace that offers free (technically, included) shuttle service to and fro, as well as a "free" car wash. Tips accepted, and the guys at the place I go deserve it.

The up-sell is the biggest challenge. Sometimes, it's worthwhile, sometimes it's not. I usually decline to give myself a chance to read up on it, especially if it sounds odd. Plus, a coupon for that service might be found.

A lot of things in the 30,000 (or whatever mileage) maintenance aren't necessarily needed by that time or at all. Other maintenance can be done by yourself (air filter), while others are offered free elsewhere (tire rotation). Still other maintenance they don't charge for at all, but they list it to make it seem more impressive. Finding out the prices of the individual service can be worthwhile. I found a dealer who performed the same service for 1/3 less!

Some dealers send out coupons. Get on more than one mailing lists, because often times they'll match their competitor's coupons. Note that some coupons only apply to "one" service, so decide where you want both things done; if you'll only get the savings off on one service, and have to pay for the other, or whether to bring your vehicle in to each dealer to get the savings on both offers.

By abcs from Shoreline, WA

Tips for saving money on car repairs from the ThriftyFun community.

Regular Maintenance

A good way to save money is to get your car regular maintenance! I notice that I have fewer major problems than many of my friends and acquaintances. I think it's because I always get my oil changed when it's due and do a maintenance check-up once or twice a year.

By Christine

Do Homework Before You Buy

I just bought a scooter. It is 125cc and I get 75 mpg. I did some research online before I made my purchase. Mine is a Yamaha Vino 125. I noticed in the different forums that I visited that they had the least repairs.

By Ole Lulu

Find A Reputable Mechanic

Consumers can lose lots of money yearly, by taking their vehicles to unestablished garages and mechanics, on unneeded and poorly done repairs. Before you need repairs, look for a mechanic who is: certified & well established, who has done car repairs for someone you know, and who communicates well about repairs, options and cost.

By Terri H.

Women Beware

My husband has been a mechanic for over 20 years. He has had to fix a lot of problems caused by other mechanics. Mostly to cars brought in by women. So if at all possible get your husband, brother or a trusted friend to go with you when you take the car in and when you pick it up. You will have a much better experience.

floppy4me

Find A Reputable DIY Mechanic For Smaller Repairs

Check with friends and family for reputable "mechanics." My husband, though non-certified, is very good with domestic and some foriegn, especially Toyotas (Service Manager for two years) and does side work for little labor. And he also advises people if they need to do a big job what the hours and parts cost before they get ripped off by some shops. We have saved A LOT of money and time over cosmetic repairs, water pumps, timing belts, replacing alternators, recharging air conditioner, etc.

By camo_angels

Get An Estimate First

Always get an estimate in writing before having repair work done on your car. Once the repairs are done, only pay for the repairs that you authorized. Pay with a credit card so you can reverse the charge if there is a problem with the work that the repair shop won't remedy.

Schools

One way to possibly save on some car repairs is to check with your local high school and see if they have any type of automobile class. Many are willing to do the repairs if you are willing to pay for the parts.

By Robin

The best time to locate and check out a repair shop is when you don't need one! Don't wait until you have a serious problem and are in a panic, that can make you a prime candidate for making a costly mistake.

1. Ask friends for shops they have been satisfied with. Word of mouth is a very good source; good and bad.

2. Have an oil change and lube and see if you feel comfortable with the way the company operates.

3. Have your tires rotated if needed and see how you are treated. Again, do you feel comfortable with the way the company operates?

4. Building rapport and being a regular customer will give you peace of mind that you should be treated fairly if you have a major trouble.

5. When you have a company you are satisfied with stick with it, don't keep bouncing around always trying to get a better deal, loyalty pays off.

By Syd Barr

Always get an estimate in writing before having repair work done on your car. Once the repairs are done, only pay for the repairs that you authorized. Pay with a credit card so you can reverse the charge if there is a problem with the work that the repair shop won't remedy.