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When their cars break down unexpectedly, many men and women take them to the closest repair shop they can find. But this important selection must not be left to likelihood.

The very best issue to do is to begin shopping for a repair facility ahead of you want one particular. By arranging ahead, you can be confident that your auto will be in capable hands when repairs are required.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), a nonprofit, independent organization that tests and certifies auto service specialists, gives these guidelines on obtaining a good auto repair establishment.

• Ask your buddies and associates for their recommendations or consult local customer groups.

• Arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to select a shop based solely on place.

• Look for a neat, properly-organized facility with modern gear and autos in the parking lot that are equal in worth to your own.

• Look for a courteous employees. The service consultant must be prepared to answer all of your concerns.

• Ask about the shop's policies regarding estimated repair charges, diagnostic charges, guarantees and acceptable techniques of payment.

• Ask if the repair facility typically handles your kind of repair operate.

• Appear for indicators of professionalism in the customer service area such as civic, community or consumer service awards.

• Appear for evidence of certified technicians such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced courses and ASE certification.

Around 400,000 specialists hold present ASE credentials. They can be located at independent garages, dealerships, franchised outlets, collision shops and various other sorts of repair facilities.

The licensed technicians wear blue and white ASE insignia or pins. Their employers usually display their technicians' ASE credentials in the client service area and post the ASE sign on the premises. read