Frequently Asked Questions
Do you give discounts?
Unfortunately, I do not offer discounts. However, my hourly rate is significantly lower than any shop in the area, and I provide the convenience of coming to you. Enjoy the comfort of waiting in your own home.
Will you install parts that I purchase?
I are happy to install parts that you provide. However, please note that I CAN NOT OFFER A WARRANTY ON CUSTOMER SUPPLIED PARTS. This means that if the part you supply fails immediately or shortly after installation, you will need to cover the cost of replacing it AGAIN and any associated wait time to acquire a good part.
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If the part you provide is incorrect, you will still be charged for the service performed or incur a last-minute cancellation fee of $40, plus mobile service fees and tax.
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You might save money initially by purchasing the part yourself, but it could end up costing more in the long run if the part is incorrect or fails.
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For parts that I supply, I offer a warranty of one year or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first, unless otherwise specified - less mobile service.
What don't you do?
I offer a range of services, but there are some limitations. I do not provide services for air conditioning, computer reprogramming, welding, collision or body damage, window glass replacement, lock-outs, engine replacement, transmission replacement, clutch replacement or air bags.
What is your cancellation policy?
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Cancellations unfortunately do happen. However, if you cancel with less than 24 hours' notice, a $40 fee will be applied. This fee compensates me for the time and resources allocated, as a cancellation is similar to going to work and being sent home without pay.
If we arrive and no one is present (a no-call/no-show), the charge will be $40 plus the mobile service fee and tax.
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This fee must be paid at your next appointment.
For a second cancellation or no-call/no-show, payment of any outstanding fees is required before rescheduling.
I had a diagnostic at AutoZone, why do I need another one?
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No offense, but a diagnostic is not simply a code reading. Auto parts stores typically lack the expertise needed to accurately identify the problem.
The trouble codes retrieved from a car's diagnostic port are just the starting point; they indicate where the computer is detecting issues but do not specify which part is faulty. For example, if a code points to an O2 sensor issue, it doesn't reveal that a rat might have chewed through a wire. Replacing the O2 sensor in this situation would be ineffective and costly.
Diagnostics involve a thorough process rather than just a procedure, which is where my expertise comes in. I attempt to save my customer's money, not waste it.
I just need my (insert part here) replaced. Can you do it?​
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I can replace any parts you choose at your discretion. For example, if you request an alternator replacement, I will install it as requested. However, if the alternator was not the actual issue and the problem persists after installation, I will need to perform a diagnostic to identify the true cause of the problem.
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Having a diagnostic performed before replacing parts can be a prudent approach. However, even if your initial assumption is correct, the diagnostic fee will still apply.
Wow! You didn't suggest any unnecessary services or parts!
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I've always adopted a low-pressure approach, which sometimes makes me a less aggressive salesperson because I only recommend services or parts that I believe will genuinely benefit your vehicle or your budget. By following this philosophy, I aim to earn your trust and ensure that you return in the future.
I live in an apartment, can you work on my vehicle here?
Yes and no. If your apartment complex permits you to work on your car or if you have the approval of the on-site manager, then I can proceed with the service. However, if I am instructed to stop working on your vehicle, I will be required to leave it as-is, clean up, and depart. In such a case, you will only be charged for the time and materials used, and you will need to arrange for the vehicle to be moved to a location where I can continue the work.
Can you work on my car on the side of the street?
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The side of the street is typically considered city right-of-way, and most municipalities prohibit vehicle repairs in this area.
If I am instructed to stop working on your vehicle, I will be required to leave it as-is, clean up, and depart. In such cases, you will be charged only for the time and materials used, and you will need to move the vehicle to a location where I am permitted to continue the work.
Do you work if the weather is going to be super crappy?
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This is my chosen profession, and I work in all types of weather—rain, heat, cold, ice and snow. While working in wet conditions is not my preference, your needs and your vehicle come first, and I am committed to getting the job done regardless of the weather. I always appreciate a garage or covered area if available.
Does the diagnostic fee apply towards the cost of the repair?
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The diagnostic fee is separate from the cost of any repair. It covers the expertise, experience, and knowledge required to identify your vehicle’s issue. This fee compensates me for these services. Diagnostic charges are not applied towards repairs.
It only took you 32 minutes. Why do you charge for the hour?​
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The diagnostic fee is set for a minimum of one hour, by the hour, regardless of the time required.
Labor charges are based on a labor guide. With my extensive experience and knowledge, I am often able to complete repairs efficiently and accurately.
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If a repair is estimated to take one hour and I complete it in half an hour, I will still charge for the full hour. Conversely, if a job that is expected to take one hour takes two hours, the charge remains for one hour.
This policy helps maintain fairness in pricing, as you wouldn't expect to pay an inexperienced mechanic for the full six hours if a job quotes out for only one hour.
Please note that this does not apply to repairs involving particularly challenging rusty, broken or seized parts.
How many problems are allowed with a single diagnostic?​
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Typically, a diagnostic fee is applied to each individual problem or concern. However, multiple symptoms can sometimes lead to a faster and more accurate diagnosis, much like how a doctor's assessment benefits from more detailed information.
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If you need me to diagnose both a check engine light and an unrelated noise while driving, it will likely require two separate diagnostics.
I keep calling, but you never answer.​
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I assure you, I'm not ignoring you!
I generally don't answer phone calls. Texting is the best way to reach me. I avoid talking on the phone while driving, interacting with customers, or working on vehicles, as it's not safe and I can't take notes during those times. While with a customer, their time is my priority.
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When you text, please include your name, the year, make, model, engine size, and the type of service you need so I can provide a prompt and accurate response. This also helps me keep track of information through the text history.
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I typically respond to voicemails and texts within 24 hours, usually at the beginning or end of the workday. Thank you for your understanding!
What do you do with the old parts, fluids and trash?​
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I'm a strong advocate for the environment. Everything I take from the job site is either recycled or disposed of responsibly. I make sure to leave no mess behind and am extremely careful about cleaning up, ensuring that the area is left in the same condition or better than when I arrived.