Most people develop a unique bond with their car. Trips are taken in, sunrises shared with, and names are given to many of these cars. Yet, not all car owners consider getting a second opinion when it’s time for maintenance on their trusty steed. With the options available to the average car owner, they really should. Here’s how to know when to get a second opinion for car maintenance.

When to Get a Second Opinion for Car Maintenance

Maybe you’ve moved away and can no longer take your car to your trusted mechanic. Maybe you have recently purchased a brand that your mechanic does not service. Whatever the reason, you’re needing repairs and not sure about the quote you received. Perhaps it’s time to get a second opinion for car maintenance.

If that odd buzzing sound or vibration has led to that dreaded high price tag repair you’ve been dreading, you shouldn’t always take that first recommendation you get from your mechanic. Newer cars are highly complicated pieces of machinery. Depending on the make and model, it’s commonplace for there to be multiple causes for a single issue, leading to confusion.

For instance, if one mechanic has recommended a new radiator, it’s worth your while to take it to another mechanic, as the source issue could be as simple as a faulty temperature sensor.

Once you have a quote from your mechanic, don’t hesitate to call around to other mechanics. Tell them what you need done and ask how much to expect to pay. This way, you’ll get a much better idea of what to expect to pay.

When it’s time to take your car in for that Second Opinion from a mechanic, it’s best to keep in mind that this recommendation isn’t just about pricing. The second opinion may end up the costlier, yet correct one in the end.

What it all boils down to is expertise and the general impression you get from these service professionals. You haven’t spent any additional money to gain the added information, and now you’re more equipped to make the decision on what’s needed next for your beloved car.

Tips for Getting a Second Opinion

You can ask for a second opinion at a doctor, so why be hesitant to ask for a second opinion about your car’s health? Getting a second opinion isn’t going to hurt anyone’s feelings. It’s all part of the profession. These tips will help you identify how to approach getting a second opinion.

• Listen to your instinct. If you aren’t getting a good feeling about what you’re hearing, then don’t hesitate; listen to that feeling! There’s a good chance that you have that feeling for a reason. Move on to another mechanic.
• Be familiar with your vehicle. With all of the resources available on the internet today, all it takes is a quick online search to get some ideas on what the problem might be. If what you’re hearing doesn’t sound right, then don’t hesitate to look for another mechanic.
• Sound like you know what you are talking about. Much like being familiar with your vehicle, sounding like you are knowledgeable about your car will help prevent you from being taken advantage of. Unfortunately, some mechanics take advantage of customers instead of guiding them to the most economical path.
• Be straightforward. Establish good boundaries early, and don’t hesitate. Know what you want, and don’t hesitate to take your business elsewhere if you feel like you are being pushed.
• Don’t hesitate to call other mechanics. Let your fingers do the walking and call around town to find out what other mechanics are charging for the quote you received. And, who knows? They might find that the problem is different than the one you were quoted for.

A lot of the customer-mechanic relationship is based on trust. Think of it like going to the doctor. You aren’t going to visit a doctor who keeps pushing medications on you and doesn’t respect your wishes. Likewise, you shouldn’t feel obligated to choose a mechanic who doesn’t respect you or your car.

Servicing Your Vehicle at T3 Atlanta

No one is looking forward to the next time they need to take their car into the mechanic for service. That said, when that time does arrive, you can be assured that the team at T3 Atlanta are comprised of award-winning experts who are prepared for any customer’s vehicle problem.

From large scale issues to regular maintenance and oil changes, T3 Atlanta offers discounted services 365 days a year for Nissan, Infiniti, Toyota, and Lexus vehicles. With two locations in the Atlanta metro area, T3 has you and your car’s best interest in mind.