Find a mechanic near you
An auto mechanic finds and fixes problems with your car's engine, brakes, suspension, electrical system and more. People need one for routine maintenance, a warning light, a strange noise, or a failed inspection. A good shop explains the problem, shows you the worn part and gets your approval before doing extra work.
Find mechanics by city
- New York, NY
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What do mechanics do?
- Oil changes and scheduled maintenance
- Brake pads, rotors and fluid
- Check engine light diagnosis
- Battery, starter and alternator replacement
- Suspension and steering repair
- Cooling system and radiator work
- Air conditioning repair
- Tune-ups, belts and hoses
- Pre-purchase inspections
- State or emissions inspections where offered
How do you choose a good mechanic?
- Ask for a written estimate before any work starts, and ask them to call you before adding anything.
- Look for technicians with ASE certification or factory training for your brand.
- Ask about the warranty on parts and labor, and get it in writing.
- Ask whether they use new, used or rebuilt parts, and OEM or aftermarket.
- Ask to see or keep the old parts they replace.
- Start with a small job, like an oil change, to see how they treat you.
- Ask whether they have experience with your make, especially for European, hybrid or electric cars.
Some states and cities require auto repair shops to register, and many require written estimates; ask the shop how it is registered where that applies.
Questions to ask before you hire
- How much is the diagnostic fee, and does it go toward the repair?
- Can I get a written estimate before you start?
- Will you call me before doing work that is not on the estimate?
- What warranty do you give on parts and labor?
- Are your technicians certified?
- How long will the car be here?
- Can I see the old parts?
Red flags to watch for
- Pressure to approve a long list of urgent repairs on the spot.
- Refusing to give a written estimate.
- Work done and billed without your approval.
- Vague answers when you ask what is wrong or why a part failed.
- Claims that a routine fluid flush is needed far more often than your owner's manual says.
What changes the price?
- The make, model and age of the car
- Parts choice: OEM, aftermarket or used
- Labor time for the repair
- Diagnostic time for hard-to-find problems
- Dealer versus independent shop
- Whether other worn parts are found along the way
Questions people ask
Should I go to the dealer or an independent shop?
Dealers know your brand well and handle warranty and recall work. A good independent shop can do most repairs and maintenance. Doing regular maintenance at an independent shop does not void your factory warranty, as long as it is done to the manufacturer's schedule and you keep records.
Is a check engine light an emergency?
A steady light means get it checked soon. A flashing light often means a misfire that can damage the catalytic converter. Drive gently and get it looked at right away.
How do I know a repair was really needed?
Ask the mechanic to show you the worn or broken part and explain how it failed. For big repairs, a second opinion is reasonable.