Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Garage for Your Audi
15 Jun, 24
Before you hand over your Audi to any mechanic or garage, it is crucial you ask these questions. The right mechanic and the right service can either preserve your car or ruin it! So choose wisely and don’t hesitate to ask questions until you are satisfied and feel comfortable with the garage.
What type of certifications and specializations do the mechanics have?
It is imperative that you make sure the technicians have the right kind of qualifications to work on your Audi. They need to have the experience and expertise, in other words the correct specialization to work on any Audi, be it internal combustion, hybrid, or electric.
Are the technicians ASE-certified?
You couldn’t ask a better question than this! Mechanics and technicians who are ASE-certified are considered the best of the best in the automotive industry. These are trained professionals who go through intensive training and specializations, after which, they take a standardized exam to prove their knowledge and know-how. The result is, you get the gold standard in mechanics. They are not only knowledgeable, but also see themselves as your partner and collaborator.
In case you’re curious, ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence. This certification process was introduced in 1972 by The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence, which is a nonprofit organization.
Our garage, the Santa Barbara Autowerks, has ASE-certified technicians. ‘Nuff said!
Do you use genuine Audi parts?
Ask this question always! You only want genuine parts for your Audi. Anything else is an invitation for problems in the future. Naturally we use genuine/OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts.
What type of diagnostic tools and equipment does the garage have?
It is critical to ask this because your modern Audi is not your father’s Audi! You need modern, state-of-the-art tools to care for your modern Audi. Whether you need software upgrades or updates, or a deep diagnosis for issues in your Audi, these days a garage must have the tools for that. At Santa Barbara Autowerks we have factory-level diagnostic tools and equipment.
Can you give me a detailed estimate and timeline for the services?
Any noteworthy garage or mechanic will be willing to give you a detailed roadmap of what the issues are in your Audi and have a realistic schedule to correct the problems. Openness cultivates trust. If the garage is not upfront with you, go elsewhere.
How long will it take to complete the job?
This is related to the question above. It’s good to have an explicit answer from the garage. Things happen, and they may or may not be able to stick to the date and time to the minute, but a firm ETA is very important.
What is included in your service costs?
Once again, this question goes into details of the price and estimate. It’s something you should do. Some garages have extra services they add on, like they may wash your car, or do some extra diagnostics, or top-off all the fluids. Ask, or you’ll never know. Ask us what we offer!
Does the garage give warranty on parts and labor?
It’s vital you ask this question. Garages that give you this warranty are confident about their work and are a better choice for your Audi repair or maintenance.
Does the garage offer a courtesy car or shuttle service?
This may not be the most important question to ask, but it does make life a little bit easier when the garage can offer you a ride, while your Audi is in their garage.
Does the garage have a membership in some recognized trade organization?
When the garage says, “Yes,” it shows the garage meets a certain standard in professionalism, commitment to quality, and ethical service.
What type of reputation does the garage have?
This is one of those questions best not to ask the garage directly! Obviously they’ll say they’re the best. Do your own research. Check Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Ask around as to what others think about the garage.
We are the One for You
At Santa Barbara Autowerks, we are confident that we can answer all these questions to your satisfaction. Just stop by or call us and find out how we can service your Audi. We’re conveniently located in Santa Barbara, California so stop in today!