For most people a motor vehicle will be one of the most expensive purchases they will make. In terms of maintenance, it will likely be the most expensive.
Whether you bought brand new or second hand, maintaining your car with regular services and repairs will help keep it in good working order. In fact, a regularly serviced car will need less expensive repairs less often.
Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the exact service schedule for your car.
When it comes to finding a mechanic you trust, ‘shop around’ until you find the best repairer for your budget and needs.
You can do this by asking the business to provide quotes on specific jobs such as a vehicle service, or brake replacement and an hourly rate for labour. Then you can compare with other repairers to choose the one right for you. If possible, get a referral from a friend or family member – nothing beats word of mouth!
In Western Australia, the repair business must be licensed with Consumer Protection. That business must also employ a licensed mechanic who has completed the necessary training and has been declared fit and proper. This also means they are backed by consumer law guarantees. For example, your mechanic should do any repairs with due care and skill.
Remember, you don’t need to take your car back to the dealership for servicing. An independent licensed mechanic can do the work without voiding the manufacturer's warranty if the repairs and parts used meet the manufacturer's standards.
When it comes to paying for repairs, don’t just hand over a ‘blank cheque’. Servicing will usually have a set price but any work beyond the service will need to be discussed with you before it can be done.
If it is an unknown issue with the car you may need to pay for the initial review into what is causing the problem. Make sure you request a cost estimate for this. Once the repairer has checked your car and found the problem, then discuss the options and costs to fix it.
It can be hard for a mechanic to give a fixed quote because of the complexity of some jobs, but where possible get a written quote. The repairer must act with care when providing a price and not deliberately underestimate the cost to get the job.
You do not have to pay for repairs you did not ask for or did not authorise.
However, unless other arrangements have been agreed to, a repairer is entitled to be paid in full for the repairs before releasing the vehicle.
To check if a mechanic is licensed, visit the free licence and registration search page. The licence number which should be displayed on the premises or ‘van’ if using a mobile mechanic.
Maintaining your car with regular services and repairs by a licensed mechanic will help keep it in good working order and protected by warranty, if one applies.
If you are not happy with a repair or maintenance service, talk to the repairer first. If you are not happy with their response, contact the Consumer Protection on 1300 30 40 54.