Finding a competent and trustworthy mechanic is not an easy process, more so when you have a specialized car like a Fiat. It is crucial that you are able to choose your mechanic wisely and not fall prey to duplicitous people who might take advantage of you and perhaps even ruin your car. In this article, we’ll discuss some typical mistakes Fiat owners make when choosing a mechanic and how you can avoid making them.
Not Checking for Certifications and Specializations
It is of utmost importance that you find a mechanic who is well-versed in the inner workings of a Fiat. Not checking their certifications and specializations is perhaps the worst mistake you could make. Don’t shy away from asking for written proof of documents to show that they are indeed certified.
Not only do they need to be certified as a mechanic in general, but your Fiat mechanic needs to know specifically how a Fiat works and how to work on it. A Fiat-specialized mechanic will have a deeper understanding of issues that are unique to a Fiat and will be able to diagnose and repair your car efficiently
Not Asking for ASE-Certified Mechanics
Around 1972, The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence, a nonprofit organization, established the ASE certification process. ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence, and just as its name suggests, this certification is considered the gold standard for auto mechanics and technicians.
After mechanics and technicians have gone through their initial training, they have a choice to take a standardized test (ASE certification test). It is a comprehensive test that assesses the proficiency of the mechanic. Having this certification means that the mechanic has gone through a rigorous process of training, specialization, and testing. What you will get are skilled professionals who not only know cars but are also polite and easy to work with.
Our mechanics and technicians at Royalty Auto Service are all ASE-certified. That means you will get the best of the best & first-rate service!
Not Looking at Reviews and Reputation
The internet has made it very easy to check and get social proof. Don’t just look at the mechanic’s website. Check Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to see what others are saying about the garage. Disregarding this can become a serious problem.
Not Looking for a Garage with Modern Equipment
It is imperative that you ask about the diagnostic tools and equipment the garage has. Your modern Fiat needs modern equipment. Certain problems can only be diagnosed with computerized tools and instruments.
Not Asking for Detailed Estimates
Make sure you ask for a detailed schedule and plan for the repairs your Fiat needs. Ask them to give you a roadmap of how and by when the repairs will be done. You want your mechanic to be open and forthcoming. Don’t accept vague estimates or timelines.
Not Being able to say NO to Pressure Tactics
If you feel pressured by the mechanic to make decisions about the repair immediately, that is a big, red flag. A good, and trustworthy mechanic will respect your need to think it over and even get a second opinion.
Not Checking About Warranties
Before proceeding with the work, make sure your Fiat mechanic gives you a solid warranty on parts and labor. This shows the confidence the mechanic and the garage have in their work. If you don’t have a warranty from them, you will have no recourse if things should go wrong.
Not Choosing Based on Quality but Concentrating Only on Price
The old saying, “Cheap is expensive,” couldn’t be truer in the automotive industry. Your budget is important, but remember, cars, their parts, and the tools used to work on them are all expensive. Add to that, when you want certified technicians, their rates will naturally be higher. When you invest in a good service, you win in the long run.
Not Considering the Mechanic's Communication Style
This is actually very important. If your mechanic doesn’t return your calls or take the time to answer your questions to your satisfaction, then it’s best you find someone else who will respect you, your car, and your time!
Why Come to Us?
The point is to make you, the customer, feel comfortable with our service. We are trained and ASE-certified professionals. We have years of experience and expertise to work on your Fiat. We are confident—when you do your research—you’ll find, we at Royalty Auto Service will fulfill all the points above. Our locations are Amelia Island, Brunswick, Kingsland, King Bay Base, Woodbine, Yulee, and St Marys in Georgia. It’s no mistake—come to us at St. Mary’s Royalty Auto Service!