13 Things Your Car Mechanic Won't Tell You

Real mechanics give you the inside scoop on the tricks of the trade.

1. "Watch out for scare tactics. Admonitions like 'I wouldn't drive this another mile' should be viewed with suspicion."

2. "Check for ASE [National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence] or AAA [American Automobile Association] certification, as well as a state license. Reputable shops are proud to display them."

3. "Ask, ask, ask. For recommendations, years in business, warranties offered, licenses, and the type of equipment used. Look for a clean garage. A floor cluttered with empty oil cans, worn tires, and dirty rags is a red flag."

4. "Never sign a blank authorization form. Always get a signed work order with a specific estimate for each job and warranties that apply."

5. "It's nuts to take a car with engine problems to a shop without a good engine analyzer and scan tool. Any mechanic who says 'I don't need fancy equipment' should be avoided."

6. "Synthetic motor oils may cost more, but you'll get a lot more miles between changes."

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As a promotional gimmick for my restaurant, I send out coupons offering people a free dinner on their birthdays. One day an anxious-sounding man called. "I got your card. How did you find me?" "From a mailing list I purchased from a supplier," I told him. "Why?" "It used my real name, and I'm in the Witness Protection Program. What's the name of the company?" I didn't want to say it, but I had to tell him the truth: Moving Targets.

-- Roy Harrington, Mount Dora, Florida