A visit to the auto shop for vehicle maintenance might happen for a number of reasons. Whether you’re getting your tires changed or having repairs done after an accident, you rely on your mechanic to revive the car and get it back in shape. While many drivers assume they can take maintenance at face value, it’s better to go the extra mile and make sure the job was done thoroughly. If you don’t know how to tell whether the work was successful, learn how before your next visit.

What You Should Know Upfront

As a driver, your job during vehicle maintenance starts as soon as you drop off the car. While you’re speaking with the technicians, make sure you understand what is going to be fixed and how they plan to do the work. Get everything in writing, including a warranty if the shop offers one. When you return to pick up your car, review the paperwork to ensure everything was done as previously stated. The best mechanics will walk you through the repair process step by step, explaining the how and why of each aspect.

How to Spot Quality Vehicle Maintenance

The first sign of a maintenance job well done is a clean car. There should be no parts left in the trunk, dust or debris covering the paint or glass, or grime on the engine. When you get into the car, make sure you are parked in a level area without turning the engine on. A cold engine and a flat surface will allow you to more accurately gauge whether your fluid levels are correct. Then, look at the dashboard to ensure there are no alert lights still on. If the tires were rotated and pressurized correctly and your brake fluid was properly refilled, you shouldn’t see or hear any alerts.

When you turn on the engine, listen closely for any odd sounds and pay attention to odors you don’t recognize. Proper vehicle maintenance will result in a smooth, silent ride, so note whether anything feels unusual about the way the car handles. If you’re unsure whether your car maintenance was done properly, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion. 

Lincoln, NE, drivers know when it comes to servicing their cars, Hillis 66 Service is the top name to trust. As a one-stop shop for all things auto repair for over four decades, this knowledgeable team is well-versed in everything from tire changes to brake repair. Their focus on high-quality vehicle maintenance is reflected in their ASE-certified mechanics, meaning you can trust your car is in good hands. Visit them online or call (402) 474-2891 to schedule an appointment.