10 things not to say when visiting a mechanic

According to research by scrapcarcomparison.co.uk, customers need to put themselves in the shoes of a mechanic. To this end they have published a list of the top 10 things not to say:

1. Taking your car in at 4:59p.m

Although sometimes this may be unavoidable, you have to remember a mechanic wants to go home at the end of a long day, just like you do. If you have the opportunity, take your car in first thing in the morning to allow yourself more of a chance of getting things fixed. Taking it in at 4.59pm with a sob story also puts pressure on a mechanic getting home to his family.

2. Arguing on price

Mechanics don’t have the best reputation, which is unfair. Yes, there are a few bad eggs out there and all of a sudden people think they’re getting scammed. If you know nothing about cars, don’t start getting thoughts they may be trying to scam you. Arguing on price really riles up a mechanic since most of them are very trustworthy, honest people. If you really think you’re getting ripped off, just say “Thanks, but no thanks”.

3. Calling 100 times a day

Calling them 100 times a day will only disturb a mechanic and waste their time. You won’t be the only person who needs their car worked on, so let them get on with the job in hand and your car will be ready, when it’s ready!

4. Touching their tools

Walking about and picking up a mechanic’s tools will get you some evil looks. Just don’t.

Would you start playing with the blood pressure pump and stethoscope if you visited your doctor?

5. Standing next to a mechanic when he’s under the bonnet

Moving around the shop can create a headache for the workers trying to do their job. And this also poses a huge safety risk if you are milling around. Stick to the customer designated waiting area to save whacking your head and toes.

6. Telling a mechanic what’s wrong with your car after reading it on Google

Telling a mechanic what is wrong with your car after reading it on the internet is one of the most frustrating things you can do to a technician. Explaining the problem is one thing but saying it’s this, that or the other after reading it on the internet is a bit like having a cold and the world wide web telling you you may have diarrhoea.

7. Telling a mechanic what to do

This one is in the same vein as above. So stop the diarrhoea. It’s one thing having some knowledge but it’s annoying being overbearing. You brought it to them, so let them do their job.

8. Customers working on their own cars

Unless it’s something that you absolutely know how to do, don’t try to work on your own car. Maybe this doesn’t really frustrate mechanics, but it can definitely make the job more difficult and could cost you more money than you realise.

9. Telling your mechanic your normal garage do this, that or the other

Try to establish a good a relationship with your new mechanic. They don’t want stories of your old mechanic were good at this, that or the other. They’ve probably been doing their job for years and will know what they are doing.

10. Getting irate if there is a delay

Delays in work and waiting for parts can happen. Providing they keep you in the loop, then understand. Yes, you may be frustrated, but they will be doing their best. So don’t get angry – as they could too!