I am not sure whether it is a Best Practice but there are things to consider before getting your car checked in a garage. 

Below are the things I will consider; 

• Location – not having a car to go around can be quite a hassle. If it is only for minor services like Regular Oil Change, AC Service etc. It would be ideal to go to a workshop close to work or home, you can easily get the car back.

And if by any chance it will take a long time to get the job done, most of the Auto shops offer Free delivery services (check their terms and conditions, it varies from workshop to workshop).

• Research – I have mentioned this before, CHECK THE REVIEWS. It can sometimes be manipulated but never the compliant ones. Look for the person that is always mentioned by the customer in their reviews. Some Service advisors and workshop managers aren’t easy to remember but if the service and how they assisted a customer stands out then that’s your person. You wanted an experienced and professional one to take care of your car and a garage that you will eventually would just go to for any car servicing needs. Establishing a good relationship with the people who services your car is good for great deals and discounts moving forward. 

Check their Website, Social Media to find out their SPECIALIZATION. More often than not their daily activities will be shown and is Promoted. 

• Budget & Appointment – I have added these two together because I personally would not bring my car in let alone confirm an appointment should it be expensive. 🙂

It is best to ask for Estimate or if you can get pricing over the phone. Some workshops just ask you to come for a FREE Inspection with terms and conditions of having the job approved.  If  you don’t approve then they will charge Inspection fee. 

If it is only parts that need to be replaced with labour charges they will try and give an estimate can be more or less after inspection. Some workshops really wouldn’t give pricing without proper inspection which is something we should understand. You wouldn’t want your car to be misdiagnosed and start acting up. 

Book an appointment that is most convenient for you depending on how long they suggested the work to be done that will let you plan your day and be productive rather than having to wait at their workshops for hours (for small service etc.)