You know your car has a problem, but should you really trust what the mechanic is saying? After all, there are lots of stories out there about unscrupulous mechanics taking advantage of drivers with limited understanding of how their vehicles operate.
AARP recently wrote about an SUV owner who paid $1150 for two new catalytic converters to be installed. When his engine light still wouldn’t turn off, he brought it to another service department, only to discover the first mechanic had merely spray-painted the old parts to look new.
The last thing we want is to be scammed. And yes, auto repairs can be stressful. You drop your car off for a routine check, and suddenly you’re staring at a long list of recommended repairs. Some are expensive, some are urgent-sounding, and most of them are confusing if you’re not a mechanic yourself.
How do you know what’s necessary? What’s optional? What can wait?
Whether you’ve been burned by a repair shop before or you simply want to make sure your money is well spent, asking the right auto repair questions can make all the difference.
We believe in transparency. And we encourage every customer to be their own best advocate when it comes to vehicle maintenance and repairs. So before you approve the work, here are five smart questions you should always ask.
1. What Exactly Is the Problem—And Can You Show Me?
This might seem obvious, but it’s one of the most important questions to ask. You’re not a mechanic, and you shouldn’t be expected to just take their word for it.
Ask for an explanation in plain English. If your technician can’t explain what’s wrong without using confusing jargon, that’s a red flag.
Better yet? Ask to see the issue for yourself.
- Can they show you the worn part or leak?
- Can they email you a photo or video if you’re not at the shop?
- Is there visible damage, fluid loss, or part degradation?
A reputable shop won’t hesitate to pull your car onto a lift and walk you through what they’re seeing. We do it all the time. And our customers appreciate the peace of mind that comes with understanding the issue firsthand.
2. Is This Repair Necessary Right Now?
Some repairs are urgent. Others? Not so much.
It’s perfectly okay to ask your mechanic, “Can this wait?”
Here’s how we usually break it down for our Denver customers:
- Critical: These are safety-related issues. They could cause breakdowns if delayed (think brakes, tires, overheating issues).
- Recommended: These are important for performance and longevity, but can be scheduled soon.
- Maintenance: These are simply for regular upkeep, and are often less urgent though still important.
If your mechanic recommends several repairs at once, ask them to prioritize by urgency. That way, you can make informed decisions based on your budget and schedule.
3. Can You Give Me a Written Estimate?
Before you give the green light, get a written estimate that includes:
- A breakdown of parts and labor
- Tax and shop fees
- An explanation of what’s included, and what’s not
This protects you from surprise charges and gives you time to review everything before you commit. Plus, it gives you another red flag if an auto shop is hesitant to put their numbers in writing. You should never feel rushed or pressured to approve work without reviewing it.
We provide written estimates and take the time to explain each line item. We want you to understand exactly what you’re paying for, and why. And if you ever have any questions, just ask.
4. Are the Replacement Parts OEM, Aftermarket, or Remanufactured?
Not all car parts are created equal.
Depending on the repair, your technician might use:
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts – same brand and specs as the original
- Aftermarket parts – made by a different company, often more affordable
- Remanufactured/rebuilt parts – previously used, but restored to working condition
Each has pros and cons in terms of cost, performance, and warranty.
Ask what kind of parts will be used—and why.
- OEM parts usually offer the best fit and performance.
- Quality aftermarket parts can be a cost-effective alternative.
- Rebuilt parts may work fine for older vehicles, but may not come with strong warranties.
Your shop should be transparent about what they’re installing and whether you have options. And if you can make a choice, they should be willing to guide you toward what’s best for your car and your wallet – not what brings them the most profit.
5. What Kind of Warranty Comes with the Repair?
A warranty tells you two things:
- The quality of the parts used.
- The shop’s confidence in their work.
Always ask:
- What’s the length of the warranty?
- What does it cover (parts, labor, both)?
We offer warranties on most repairs and will walk you through the coverage. Because we believe in quality service and quality products. Have questions? Just ask. Our goal is to help you get back on the road without having to worry about the condition of your car.
Bonus Tip: Ask Who Will Be Working on Your Car
Not all mechanics have the same certifications, especially at big chain shops where staff can rotate often. Ask:
- Do your technicians have certifications?
- Will I see the same person if I come back next time?
As a family-owned shop in Denver, we pride ourselves on having a consistent team of knowledgeable and skilled technicians. Our customers appreciate seeing the same trusted faces each visit, and it builds a relationship that’s rare in the auto repair world.
Why These Questions Matter (Especially in Denver)
If you live and drive in Denver, you already know the toll our conditions take on your vehicle:
- Wild temperature swings
- Mountain driving and steep grades
- Magnesium chloride in the winter
- Potholes and gravel that hammer your suspension
That’s why it’s so important to find a trustworthy shop and ask the right questions before you approve any repair. Small issues can turn into major ones quickly in Colorado’s driving environment, and unnecessary repairs can add up fast if you don’t understand what’s being done, or why.
We’re Here to Answer Every One of These Questions, And More
We believe trust is built one question at a time.
Whether you’re here for a brake inspection, oil change, or engine diagnosis, we’ll walk you through what we see, explain your options, and only recommend what you really need.
No scare tactics. No upsells. Just honest service from people who live, drive, and repair cars right here in Denver.
So if your car’s acting up, your check engine light just came on, or you’re not sure what that rattle means, come talk to us. We’ll answer all your auto repair questions and help you feel confident before you say “yes” to any repair.
Schedule your appointment today and get straightforward answers, trustworthy repairs, and peace of mind from a local auto shop that puts you first.