Are there any good working, HONEST mechanics that are not trying to take you for a ride?

Question

Preferrably in connecticut.

Answer 1

To answer the question, yes. But they are hard to find. Specially if you do not know anything about cars. Sometimes some folks make mistakes like breaking parts or diagnosed the wrong thing and at the end the Owner pays the the price of their screw ups. That is more about business practices than been honest.

Answer 2

I'm sure that this will be a hot and arguable topic. As in any business, there are many hard working, honest and dedicated people trying to do the best job that they can, without trying to rip off the public. On the other hand, there are probably just as many that would steal the pennies off a dead mans eyes. In my "own" experience, I have come across more dishonest mechanics ( I assume you're talking about auto mechanics) than I have honest mechanics. I have been doing most of my own auto repairs for about 35-40 years now and am thankful that I have the knowledge. Most of my learning has been self taught, so anyone can learn if they want to. Here's a recent example. I took my car in for new tires and front end alignment, which by the way, was done to my satisfaction. But, the mechanic also had a "to do" list for my car of things that he said needed repair or attention. They included, new battery needed, broken rear springs, leaking rear brake calipers, and a few other items, for an added repair cost of about $1800. I knew he was full of **it because I inspect my vehicle regularly. None of these items needed attention or repair. But the average consumer that didn't have car knowledge probably would have panicked and told the guy to go ahead and do the repairs. I had been taking my car there for a few years, but I will never go back there again. I have found this practice to be the case at the majority of places, especially at the bigger conglomerates. They're looking at the highest profit that they can squeeze out of you. My suggestion is, if you are told that you need expensive repairs, get a second opinion somewhere else. Remember, I am not slamming "all" mechanics. There are some good, honest, hard working people out there. If you find one, stick with them.

Answer 3

Your best bet is to find an independent shop, something not chain affiliated (unless your getting big work done and your planning on moving soon). The smaller shops, and most times mechanics that aren't even certified are great people who are going to be honest with you if they can help they will, and they won't charge you 100 bucks an hour, usually about 40 or 50. Find people who have hot rods, or custom cars, ask them where they get their work done. Look in the phonebook at local garages. You'll find one, just be patient and look around. Good luck!

Answer 4

Most of the time, the mechanic is not the one that's trying to rip you off. It's the owner of the shop. In some cases, mechanics work for a flat rate, so the more they find wrong, the more they potentially can make. I personally don't like that system, can spell disaster when it comes to opinions of what needs to be replaced and when.

Answer 5

AA1Car.com:

"One of the most common questions I hear is, "Where should I take my car to get it fixed?" My answer is to take it to a repair facility that (1) has a good reputation (ask friends and neighbors where they take their vehicles), that (2) is affiliated with a group such as AAA and/or has ASE certified technicians, and (3) appears to be clean, friendly and competently managed. The shop should also adhere to the Code of Ethics and repair standards put forth by the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP) official website"



http://www.iatn.net/shopfinder/

http://www.aa1car.com/library/auto_repair_costs

http://www.aa1car.com/library/auto_repair_help.htm
http://www.aaa.com/scripts/WebObjects.dll/ZipCode.woa/wa/route?rclub=020&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eautoclubgroup%2Ecom%2Fchicago%2Fautos%2Fapproved%5Frepair%2Easp

Answer 6

Of course there are! I work on your car "as if" I am working on my own car. I will educate you to maintaining your car properly. And I will not buy cheep aftermarket parts to install on your car. I take pride in returning your car to you in better condition and even wash the outside and vacuum the interior or have some one do it. I will ride with you to confirm the problem and test drive after to make sure the problem is gone. Good Automotive Technicians are everywhere. Just finding one who can do you right.

Answer 7

people usually get what they ask for...sorry but most people do no work on their car until smoke is pouring out or the brakes dont work....iv "fixed" engine noise by adding 2 to 4 quarts of oil...if i had a dime for every dipstick iv pulled that had NO OIL on it...id retire.. try Car Talk honest mechanic section.

Answer 8

Well I fit the description perfect until the end.

Answer 9

Yes. 99% of them.

Answer 10

They are hard to find - when you find one - stick with him!!