When it's time to take your car in for service or repairs, you want to make sure you choose a shop you can trust. According to Gitnux, there are more than 168,000 auto repair businesses in the United States. But with so many options to choose from, how do you know which auto repair shop is right for you? Here are some tips on what to look for when picking a professional local auto repair shop.

Ask for Recommendations

Word-of-mouth is still one of the best ways to find a quality local auto repair shop. Talk to friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors to get recommendations on repair shops they've used and had good experiences with. You can also check online reviews and ratings for local shops. Reviews from other customers can give you insight into customer service, repair quality, and pricing.

Look For Certified Technicians

One sign of a professional shop is that they employ certified technicians. Ask if the shop's technicians are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). ASE certification indicates that a technician has passed rigorous exams showing proficiency in their field, whether brakes, electrical systems, or another specialty. Shops with certified techs care enough about training and expertise to have their team properly certified.

Inquire About Warranties

Reputable shops will stand behind their work with a warranty on parts and labor. A minimum 12-month, or 12,000-mile warranty, is standard, but longer and more comprehensive warranties are a sign of greater confidence. Make sure you understand exactly what is covered under warranty, so there are no surprises later. At Jeff's Automotive, we offer a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty on our parts and labor for most repairs, so you can be sure to have confidence in us.

Consider Customer Service

Observe how the shop handles customers to gauge what kind of service you can expect. Do they greet customers promptly? Are the employees courteous and helpful? A shop that values good customer service is more likely to treat your vehicle with care and communicate about recommended repairs.

Choosing the right local auto repair shop takes a bit of research and observation. Take your time to find a shop that meets standards for certification, customer service, warranties, and general professionalism. With the right shop for your needs, you can have confidence your car is in good hands. If your vehicle needs maintenance, or you need repairs, we are the shop for you. Call our team at Jeff's Automotive to request a service.