Watch out for these potential auto mechanic scams

When you take your vehicle to an auto mechanic, you should have reasonable assurance that they are reputable and trustworthy. Researching a mechanic ahead of time via AAA or other industry resources helps. However, being prepared with knowledge of some of the sneaky car repair tricks that many mechanics use can help you avoid being scammed. Here are just a few things to look for, and none of them require much more than some basic automotive knowledge. Thanks to WalletPop for giving us some great ideas.

Source for this article: Watch out for these potential auto mechanic scams

Watch for the spit-and-polish auto mechanic scams

Most auto mechanic scams depend upon a customer’s lack of automotive knowledge, and this one is no exception. A mechanic may say that a part needs to be replaced, but the reality is that they may remove it, clean it up, then simply put it back on the car so that it looks like it is really brand new. Easily removed parts like batteries, oil filters and radiators are common targets. Some mechanics say they replaced your old part with a refurbished one. They have actually done nothing. If you can take the car home first before you are going to have any repairs done, mark the part in question with a small dab of paint that isn’t easy to spot unless someone knows it’s there. After repairs are complete, ask to see the old part as well as the purchase order for the new one. Match the new part with the info in the receipt. If you see the paint on the “new” part, you’ve spotted a scam.

There's manic maintenance

Follow all suggestions for standard maintenance. Check your owner’s manual. The manufacturers know your vehicle model better than anyone, so their recommended specs are going to help you a lot. If a mechanic tries to get you to agree to an oil change, flush or other repair sooner than you might actually need it, you’ll have reason for suspicion. You should bring the manual with you to the repair.

Don’t let them charge you for guesswork

If you have ever paid for auto repair that didn’t address the real problem, this tip is for you. Your mechanic needs to be held to a high standard. Demand a refund if they didn't fix it the first time. Try a different mechanic if problems persist.

Consider your dipstick

Check your dipstick before repairs. Do this because this will remind you to watch for an old nickel-and-dime trick some mechanics use. They’ll only insert the dipstick in part of the way, which will give a lower reading. Even if it is cheap, it is still something. Also, watch for the detached spark plug trick – it could save you from unnecessary engine exploratory work. While there, don't get new power steering. According to WalletPop, no auto manufacturer recommends this service.

With labor, doubled over

Sometimes, repair jobs will start with one thing, and then lead to another. Sometimes mechanics double the labor charge. The labor cost you were quoted is what you should pay. However, if the new job is something big, the mechanic still has to make money for his or her time. Communicate with your mechanics and make sure they tell you whether additional labor charges will be incurred before you give your consent to proceed.

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