MSN has a list for 10 tips to Avoid Auto Repair.  I gotta say it’s got some very useful tips, but it still doesn’t make car repairs pricy.

First they suggest getting a written estimate.  I do this, and yet somehow, many, many times, I have the shop call me saying that more work needs to get done.  Typically I say no and then go get other estimates.  But seriously how many people get a “written” estimate only to have the shop bump it up anyway?

Don’t be oversold.  This is something I agree with, when I take it in for routine oil changes, I often get “oversold” on the phone.  Instead I tell them I’m not ready to commit and I’ll come back after I have other estimates.  I say if you have a good price and it’s necessary then I’ll be back in 3 days.  Result?  Sometimes I don’t even need the work done or I need something else entirely done.  Never rush to get work done, yes it can be painful to make do without a car, but honestly it’s probably cheaper to rent a car (zip car) for a few days while you consider what to do.

The article suggests sticking with your car’s routine maintenance schedule.  This will keep you from being oversold and will help you determine what is really necessary.  I think it’s a neat idea, and I often check my manual if a shop wants to do repairs if it’s approximately when it’s reccomended.

Also the article says to communicate directly with the mechanic. Make sure they are fixing the problem you brought in to be repaired and not something else.  And the article suggests developing a relationship with your mechanic.  I think these are good tips as long as you are satisfied with the service.

Read the article and make any other suggestions for how to save on car repairs I’d love to hear them