NEW YORK -- Here's advice on how to choose a repair facility from the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE):
- Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one.
- Ask your friends and associates for their recommendations; consult local consumer groups.
- Arrange for transportation to the facility in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a shop based on its location.
- Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.
- Look for a courteous staff, with a service consultant willing to answer all of your questions.
- Look for policies regarding estimated repair costs, diagnostic fees, guarantees, and acceptable methods of payment.
- Ask if the repair facility specializes in or if it usually handles your type of repair work.
- Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area such as a display of civic, community, or customer service awards.
- Look for evidence of qualified technicians -- certification by ASE, trade-school diplomas, and certificates of advanced courses.
