13 Things Your Car Mechanic Won't Tell You (page 2 of 2)

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7. "When you go for a second opinion, don't tell the mechanic what the first diagnosis and price were."

8. "Coolant flushes and power steering flushes are very common gimmicks at quick lubes. Check your owner's manual; many cars have fluid that is designed to go 100,000 miles. And cleaning fuel injectors is a waste of time and money. There are additives on the market that do a great job."

9. "Always ask for OE [original equipment] brake pads or at least equivalent material. A $49.95 brake job will usually get you the worst friction material you can buy-it's the difference between stopping short and causing a pileup on the way to work."

10. "Ask about your new tire's 'build date.' If you're getting an unusually good deal, you might be receiving three-year-old treads, especially risky for snow tires."

11. "Lifetime mufflers? What would ever make you think a muffler will last a lifetime? Yes, they'll give you free replacements, but they'll hit you over the head for expensive pipe repairs."

12. "Consult your dealer before you have work done on a catalytic converter or emissions parts. Some of these items carry a very long warranty, and free replacement is often required by law."

13. "It's not okay for your 'check engine' light to stay on all the time. It's probably not 'a loose gas cap.'"
From Reader's Digest - June 2008
 
SOURCES: Gary Montesi, owner, Montesi Volkswagen, North Haven, connecticut; Domenic DiSiena, manager, Bedford (New York) Shell; Bob Sikorsky, automotive writer, Tucson, Arizona; anonymous mechanics in Minnesota and New York
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By Allison Noble, on 08/05/2009
I sell lifetime warrantied mufflers,brakes,etc.If other components are within manufacturer's specification,i.e.pipes not leaking and strong,rotors not grooved,I do NOT "hit you over the head for expensive pipe repairs." Motorist Assurance Program requires the same standards to be used uniformly throughout the repair industry.If a facility does not use MAP standards question repair needs.I would be afraid to drive a vehicle that has boiled brake fluid or condensation(brake failure-no stop!)

By Packerfan2, on 09/25/2008
I have the best mechanic in the world. His shop is not the neatest, but he listens to me and my car. He will pick up my van and deliver it when it's done. When I needed new tires, he sent back the first set because they weren't 'agressive' enough - he knows the driving I do. He might not be A-list, but he's fair and he's good. Neatness isn't everything when it comes to a mechanic. I wouldn't trade Mark for all the fancy garages in the world..

By pookasmom, on 06/14/2008
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