I think even that will be enough for most people. If there are any charging or module communication issues, it will come up with their tools.


The mechanics here do. First one I went to last time ran a full scan and let me take photos of computer readout. One of the problems was a unresponsive TCM, and they recommended a transmission shop down the road. I went to that shop, and the owner took the vehicle for a test drive with his tool plugged in and said module was definitely bad. He recommended an auto electrical specialist he sends people to, and they ultimately fixed the problem. I hadn't spent a dime up until then. But it makes good business sense if you ask me. It brings business through the door, and people will be more likely to let you fix the issues. You better believe I'll be returning to the first mechanic for whatever I need, and the second guy is now my transmission shop and we have a friendly relationship.

But I think the whole auto industry is a little different South of the border. For example, I hear it's common to for people to buy their own parts, and bring them to a mechanic to have installed. That's pretty unheard of around here.

I avoid chains like the plague. A monkey could do better auto work.

 

I’m glad you found mechanics/shops you can trust. As a shop, we strive to make sure our customers understand what repairs were done and why - problem is I’m a lot better at doing the work than explaining it - so my boss is the customer service rep.

I understand your attitude towards chain shops but I think the primary reason for the stigma surrounding them is they are often the only places that new, inexperienced techs can find employment. Their inexperience makes it easier for management to push quantity over quality which obviously leads to a lot of problems.

The industry as a whole needs to change its wage structure. There’s definitely a need for standardized labor times but far too many shops (dealer, chain or independent) use it as a way to take advantage of their techs.

I’m blessed to have found a shop that’s straight hourly as opposed to flat rate, but I still do the best I can to stay within (or close to) standard times.