Average Costs Of A Mobile Mechanic
Average costs are dependent on the services that you are receiving.
Unlike dealerships and privately owned auto service shops, mobile mechanics do not have overhead. On most services, they can save you 20-30%. That’s in addition to providing you a convenient service!
Billing:
Hourly Rate– Some companies charge by the hour.
Flat Rate Per Job– Some companies charge a flat rate for the work they do.
Recognize that there are several variables in developing the price. These include:
- Time that it takes to complete the project.
- How many technicians are working on your project.
- Was it an after hours emergency
- With many more aspects that may add to the cost
Remember, the company quoting a low rate may not necessarily be the right company for you. Some companies may offer low hourly rates, but then charge additional “fees” to complete the job.
You may also need to consider that most companies charge a higher rate for overtime, weekends, holidays and emergency calls.
The best rule of hand is to get an itemized estimate so you know exactly what is expected from the local company.
Advice On Finding The Right Mobile Mechanic
Do Not Pay For Parts
Never pay for parts before the job is done. Remember, most mobile mechanics are very honest but you still want to be careful not to get swindled.
The Job May Be Too Big
Most mobile mechanics can change your oil or fix your brakes, and they may be willing to take on the challenge of changing your head gaskets, but do they have the right tools for the job.
Spotting Fly By Night Companies
- Do they have a legitimate website?
- Do they accept credit cards?
- What kind of tools are they using?
Guarantees And Warranties?
Ask what kind of warranty they offer on the work they are doing. Warranties will vary from company to company. Some parts only have a 90 day warranty, whereas some parts may be guaranteed for life for the rest of the life of your car.
Paying By The Hour
This is a tricky one, most mobile mechanics charge you by the job. Some will charge you by the hour, if so, keep a wary eye on them to ensure they are not padding the time spent on the auto repair.
Ratings And Reviews
Check for online ratings and reviews Reviews are not always accurate, as competitors, friends, or even business owners themselves will sometimes post reviews in order to sway results. If there are several reviews over a period of time, it is normally more relevant than if several that came in within a couple of days of one another.
Referrals
Ask your mobile mechanic for at least three referrals and check them out.
References
Ask your family, friends, and neighbors if they have any suggestions for a mobile mechanic company.
Some Services Of A Mobile Mechanic
- No Starts
- Lock-outs
- Fleet Service
- General Maintenance
- Computer Diagnostics
- General Repair
- A/C Service Starters & Alternators
- Tune Ups
- Water Pumps
- Fuel Pumps
- Timing Belts
- Gaskets, Belts, Hoses
- And Much More…..
Basic Information
Mobile Mechanic Education
Many programs and schools offer training for those interested in a career as a mobile mechanic. Areas of training include automobile diagnostic, repair and maintenance of engine, electronics, air-conditioning and heating systems, and truck and diesel mechanics.
Some mechanics are ASE certified, which is a standardized method of testing skill and knowledge level. While it’s not required by law for a mechanic to be certified, some companies only hire or promote employees who have passed ASE tests. The technology used in automobiles changes very rapidly and the mechanic must be prepared to learn these new technologies and systems. Your mechanic has a physically demanding job, often exposed to extreme temperatures, lifting heavy objects and staying in uncomfortable positions for extended periods. They also deal with exposure to gasoline, asbestos, and other toxic chemicals.
The Internet is even spreading to mechanics, with certified mechanics providing advice online. Mechanics themselves now regularly use the Internet for information to help them in diagnosing and/or repairing vehicles. Service manuals for vehicles have become significantly less prevalent with the internet taking their place.
Benefits Of Hiring A Mobile Mechanic
Save Money
Generally, mobile auto repair professional tend to charge lower rates than the conventional repair shops because their operating costs are significantly less.
Customer Service
Individuals who specialize in mobile repair services recognize that being friendly & understanding is an important asset in the job. As a result, they focus on providing the best customer service and establishing good relationships with their clients.
Can Save Your Time
Another benefit of hiring mobile mechanics for auto repair is that it can help you avoid time wasting time. When you call your repair service, they’ll come directly to your home or workplace and do the work quickly so that you get back on the road in the shortest time possible.No more auto service shop waiting rooms
Fix The Majority Of Your Auto Issues At Your Location
Mobile mechanics are able to perform an array of auto repairs including electrical repairs, maintenance, a/c repairs, engine repairs and transmission issues. They are also able to diagnose more complex issues and arrange for your vehicle to be taken to a garage for repair.
