Auto Repair

Choosing an Columbia Auto Mechanic:

• Look for Columbia auto repair shops that display certifications - like a seal of Automotive Service Excellence. This Certification indicates that some or all of the auto mechanics meet basic standards of knowledge and competence in specific technical areas. Make sure the certifications are current, but remember that certification alone is no guarantee of good or honest Columbia auto repair work.

• Ask if the Columbia auto mechanic or repair shop has experience working on the same make or model vehicle that intend to bring in.

Choosing an Columbia Auto Repair Shop:

• Ask for recommendations from friends, family, and other people you trust. Look for an auto repair shop before you need one to avoid being rushed into a last-minute decision.

• Shop around for an Columbia auto repair shop by telephone for the best deal, and compare warranties on repairs.

• Ask to see current licenses if local law requires auto repair shops to be licensed or registered.

• Make sure the Columbia auto repair shop will honor your vehicle's warranty.

Columbia Auto Repair Mechanics

Below is a list of Columbia auto repair shops and dealers that are waiting to compete for your business. View contact information for each Columbia auto mechanic and repair shop, or read tips and advice on how to choose a good auto mechanic and repair shop.

Before you arrange to have any work performed, ask how the Columbia auto repair station prices its work. Some repair shops charge a flat rate for labor on auto repairs. The published rate is based on an independent or manufacturer's estimate of the time required to complete the auto repairs. Others charge on the basis of the actual time the Columbia mechanic worked on the repair.

If you need expensive or complicated auto repairs, or if you have questions about recommended work, consider getting a second opinion from a different Columbia auto shop.

Find out if there will be a diagnostic charge if you decide to have the work performed elsewhere. Many Columbia repair shops charge for diagnostic time.

Shops that do only diagnostic work and do not sell parts or repairs may be able to give you an objective opinion about which repairs are necessary.

If you decide to get the work done, ask for a written estimate.

What should a written estimate include?

• It should identify the condition to be repaired, the parts needed, and the anticipated labor charge. Make sure you get a signed copy from the Columbia auto mechanic.
• It should state that the shop will contact you for approval before they do any work exceeding a specified amount of time or money. State law may require this.

What should I know about the parts to be repaired or replaced?

Parts are classified as:

• New - These auto parts generally are made to original manufacturer's specifications, either by the vehicle manufacturer or an independent company. Your state may require Columbia auto repair shops to tell you if non-original equipment will be used in the repair. Prices and quality of these parts vary.
• Remanufactured, rebuilt and reconditioned - These terms generally mean the same thing: parts have been restored to a sound working condition. Many manufacturers offer a warranty covering replacement parts, but not the labor to install them.
• Salvage - These are used parts taken from another vehicle without alteration. Salvage parts may be the only source for certain items, though their reliability is seldom guaranteed.

What do I need after the work is done?

• Get a completed repair order describing the work done by the Columbia mechanic. It should list each repair, parts supplied, the cost of each part, labor charges, and the vehicle's odometer reading when you brought the vehicle in as well as when the repair order was completed. Ask for all replaced parts. State law may require this.