Is it stereotypical to think that all mechanics pretty much rip people off left and right?

Question

I believe it. I just feel really paranoid every time I bring my car in. EVERY time they "find something" that needs to be fixed. What a ripoff. Is it just the places where I live, or is this universal???

Answer 1

I do believe that some mechanics give others a bad name. My husband is a excellent and very honest mechanic. I have learned his side of it too. You may go in to have your brakes changed and they may find something else wrong (like rotors, hubs, seals, calipers). Sometimes it may be an expensive fix, sometimes not. My husband will show the customer what is wrong and explain to them why it needs to be fixed. He may even tell them "You are good for at least another 5,000 miles, so if you want, you can fix it later. It is up to you." The ones who are ripping people off are the ones where you go in for a brake job and now they tell you that you need a new engine. What does changing your brakes have to do with the motor? Watch these guys. I agree, it is hard to find a good, honest mechanic. Good luck.

Answer 2

I see yours, and many others, perspective on this, especially if you've been "raped" by a mechanic or salesman before. My husband was a mechanic for 8 years, and he made it his business to work honest, even going as far to inform the customer how long they can go before replacing or fixing the part in question. Now, as a Service Manager, he has set the standard with how vehicle servicing should be. He wins the trust of new, unsure customers, and values the repetitive ones. The dealership embraces "the customer is always right" philosophy, and stay abreast educating mechanics and service advisors. We had this discussion, and how he overcomes customers' immediate distrust, and he said by encouraging a 2nd opinion, and educating the customer on the "why," that is the winner. Also, look for a five star or reputable dealership to work on your car, preferrably the one you purchased from or by the maker. There are crooks in every field, friend, and once bitten, you won't forget! Car repairs aren't cheap, do your research, shop around, value 2nd opinions. Best wishes, friend.

Answer 3

This is definitely stereotyping, but unfortunately, it's a case of "one bad apple".. .and, it's everywhere. Your best bet in finding a trustworthy mech is to ask around...get references from people you trust & BEFORE you need one, visit some of the local shops, talk to the owner & ask about his crew...if he's proud of their work, runs a pretty clean operation (organized, anyway), you see decent looking vehicles in his lot, has ethics in getting rid of oils & tires, you probably found a keeper.

The thing most folks don't realize is that almost half of their bill is labor costs, which are guaged by a book...the job may have only taken 15 mins. to do, but the "book" allows for 1 1/2 hrs...you get charged for the latter. You can also save money, if used parts are just as good as new...you have to let them know you're o.k. with this when bringing your vehicle in for work...A shop that wants your continued biz will call you & let you know about such, as well as what they found before they do the work & an estimate of costs one way or the other.

I personally, look for the "old man" who's up on the new equipment & cars...I look for crews who take care of their tools, their floors, & the tow truck (reflects pride of profession)...I look for these things even if it's a "back yard shop". If I walk in & am greeted with courtesy & my questions are answered with honesty...I will more than likely take their card & keep it handy. The shops that work on fire/police vehicles get a big plus...you may stop in the ol' firehouse & ask these folks who they would recommend...whenever I move some place new, this is the first place I turn for local info...they know everybody & everything going on!

Anyway, keep faith, do the homework, & you'll feel much better about where your money is going, & peace of mind in the maintenance of your vehicle.

Answer 4

I think they "up-sell" just as much as any other business. The problem is, when you take in your car and your not mechanically inclined you don't know if 'you want fries with that.' But then again, they don't ask, they tend to tell you what you need for your 'side orders' rather than exploring more options and alternatives. So, in that way, yes I find most mechanics to be manipulative. Seldom have I gone to a mechanic that wanted to do something very unnecessary, but it has happened. Oh, and what's with the huge labor charges?

Answer 5

It may seem like it but no it is not true. The place we take our car is freakin' awesome and will tell you when you dont absolutely need something and when you do. But I do agree that most of the time it does seem like a rip off. And that statement is very stereotypical.

Answer 6

I think that happens for every workman that charges by the hour. Like $80 an hour, so they better find something wrong so they don't go nothing wrong with your car $40 for the half hour or $80 because they went one minute over the 30 minutes..

Answer 7

It is universal, but a little stereotypical. Ask a few friends to recommend someone, or make a friend that is a mechanic.

Answer 8

I have a wonderful honest guy. the last time i brought my van in . The transmission die . The van was old, 17 yrs. He said he didn't want me to waste anymore money on it. ($1000) Buy a new one. So we are.
GOD BLESS

Answer 9

I don't think it is universal, I have known some really good mechanics and service with a couple different dealers has been exemplary.

Answer 10

Of course they rip people off. Most people in this business are flat out crooks who will scam your last dime if you let them.