Automakers advise avoiding mechanics who are not certified. A master technician will have passed all of the exams. It's like going to the doctor. People do get taken advantage of. Fabiano recommended consulting about five service centers before allowing any repairs.
Mechanics agree that prices can sometimes be high and service can be low.
It's worse now than it's ever been. The time estimate for the same repair ranged from two to three and one-half hours. In addition to these varied costs, some stores charge extra for consultations. While some consumers said the consultation fee is unfair, Fabiano explained that the diagnostic tests done by many stores cost them quite a bit. When considering the details involved in the process, the cost to the shop adds up, he said.