When you need car repair, you need an auto mechanic you can trust. All mechanics are not created equal, but with these tips from the Columbia, MO-based auto repair specialists at Privitt Auto Service Center, you can rest easy knowing you’ve made the right choice.

Here are their suggestions for how to find the perfect mechanic.

Know Your Car

Some auto shops specialize in certain makes, models, and types of cars, so try to find one with expertise to match. Foreign and luxury cars in particular sometime require a specialized mechanic that carries the replacement auto parts that other mechanics won’t carry.

Ask Around

From family and friends to Internet reviews, do some searching to find an auto shop with a great reputation. Word of mouth is one of the most powerful and reliable ways to figure out how to separate the car repair pros from the hacks.

Check the Certification

Reputable auto shops should be certified by ASE, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. If they don’t have an ASE certificate posted, it’s a red flag that something isn’t right.

Do Your Research

Let’s face it: most of us don’t know enough about cars to be able to tell if we’re getting a fair price at the auto mechanic. When you get an estimate for the repairs, do some quick research online before you sign anything. If they’re charging you $3,000 for auto parts that others only paid $100 for, you’ll want to take your car somewhere else.

Columbia-area residents who need service, repairs, or just a tune-up have trusted Privitt Auto Service Center for all their automotive repair needs since 1963. Their industry-leading equipment and expertise equip them to fix any car, regardless of the issue. Visit them online or call them at (573) 449-7941 to learn more about their services and passion for a job done right.