Many states in the US require that auto repair shops provide their customers with written estimates before commencing the repairs of a vehicle. Even when such an estimate is not required by law, the customer can always request one and the repair shop would happily oblige. What’s the importance of requesting for a written estimate before getting your vehicle repaired? Here is why you should insist on getting a written estimate before getting your vehicle repaired.
A written estimate usually contains some specific information about the intended repair. Some of the most important information that should be included in the estimate is:
- A detailed description of the specific work to be done on the vehicle.
- The total cost involved in the project such as parts and labor.
- A statement that the estimated amount won’t be exceeded by a certain percentage or dollar amount without the approval of the customer.
Even if such an estimate is not required by law in your state or city, you should always insist on a written estimate before getting your vehicle repaired. It can save a lot of problems between you and the repair shop down the road. In fact, the written estimate is similar to a contract between the customer and the auto repair shop. The repair quote is important when claiming insurance for the repairs. In case you are repairing the car after an accident, the insurance provider will insist on a written estimate from an authorized auto repair shop before performing any repairs on your vehicle. If the other driver is at fault, a repair quote is the evidence of the cost of repairing your car. If the accident was minor in nature, a repair quote can give you an idea whether you should claim damages on your insurance. These are some of the many benefits of getting a repair estimate before getting your vehicle repaired.
Should you settle for one repair quote or get more? In case you are having a major repair, you should get more than one quote from a few different auto repair shops in the area to know that you are getting a reasonable deal on the repairs. This will help you pick the right auto repair shop in the area when repairing your vehicle. Shopping around is crucial to finding a reliable auto repair shop in the area. You can save money in the long run by doing the necessary research when shopping for a reputable and experienced auto repair shop in the area.
You should always plan ahead for vehicle maintenance and repairs by finding a trusted auto repair shop before you actually need their services. There are hundreds of such shops in the area. But all of them are not created the same. A recommendation from a trusted source is the best way to find a reputable auto repair shop in the area.
The aforementioned article provides information on why you should really insist on getting a written estimate before getting your vehicle repaired.
