Having a trusted auto mechanic on your side can help to put your mind at ease. If your car begins to make a funny noise or doesn’t want to start, it is good to know that you have someone you can call for help. Here are 3 things you should do to find the right mechanic Bellevue WA.

1. Get Recommendations

When it comes to choosing the right mechanic, word of mouth goes a long way. You can certainly start by looking at reviews on popular websites such as Yelp and Angie’s List, but it isn’t wise to put 100 percent stock in them. You can also check places like the Better Business Bureau for complaints. However, the best place to start is by getting recommendations from friends and family members. Ask them how happy they are with the mechanics that service their vehicle.

2. Search for Certifications

Now that you have gotten a few names, it is time to do a little research. To begin, you need to make certain that the mechanic is ASE certified. The acronym stands for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, and it is considered a big achievement that a mechanic holds this title. In addition to this, you should also take into consideration how much experience the mechanic has had with your specific make and model of car.

3. Ask the Right Questions

Before allowing any work to be done on your vehicle, you should obtain a written price quote, broken down into parts and labor. A good mechanic will take the time to show you the part on your car that needs to be replaced, or explain why the labor costs are especially high. If there are several things that need to be fixed on your car, a good mechanic will help you prioritize which should be fixed first. If the mechanic doesn’t appear to be giving you much personal attention, it may be best to try another mechanic instead.  

Hiring a mechanic doesn’t have to be a difficult or dreaded experience. The best thing you can do is go with your gut instinct and remember that you can always ask elsewhere for a second opinion.