Almost anyone could install your new brakes, but can you trust them to do a proper job? Your life depends on those brake pads and brake rotors so you’ll want to know they were installed correctly. Here are some tips for finding a top-notch brake mechanic.
Clean and organized
A mechanic with clean hands is a bit suspicious but be just as wary of one who’s overly dirty. His or her workplace is probably equally untidy, and it doesn’t say much for the pride they take in their work. A skilled mechanic maintains a clean and organized shop and workbench, and these attributes are usually reflected in the quality of their work.
ASE Certified
Shops with ASE-Certified mechanics usually broadcast it by displaying the circular blue certification badge. Be aware though that the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, (the full name for ASE,) certifies individuals and not shops. When you’re looking for a brake job, ask if the mechanic who’ll do the work is ASE-Certified. “Yes” is a definite plus, “No” isn’t an automatic disqualifier if the shop has a good reputation.
Check the Reviews
We’ve all seen reviews written by someone who was having a bad day, so don’t let a couple of negative comments put you off. Look for trends or patterns in what’s been said in the last 12 months. If the tone is positive, that’s good. If a substantial proportion of reviewers were unhappy with the work they had done, go elsewhere.
Thorough
Ask what’s included in a brake job. Swapping-out pads, obviously, but award bonus points for replacing shims and checking rotor thickness and runout. You might also ask what you should do if your new pads start squealing. (Zero points for telling you it will pass, five points for telling you to come back if you’re not happy.)
Interested, Knowledgeable and Informed
For some mechanics working on cars is just a job. Others have a passion for it. Who do you want doing your brake job? The enthusiast, obviously, but how do you tell? Well when you call, or preferably stop by, what questions do they ask? In particular, if they register you’re interested in and care about your car, expect questions about your driving style, expectations, and type and brand of components you want.
If they don’t ask, hit them with a couple of test Q’s. You might ask if they recommend semi-metallic or ceramic pads, or if they think drilled rotors are worth the money.
Forget the Price
Price matters, but don’t pick the most expensive shop because, “If they can charge that, they must be good.” Conversely, don’t go for the cheapest without first considering the points above. If they’re cheap AND they’ve checked all the boxes, all well and good. Remember the old saying though, “You get what you pay for.”
It bears repeating: your life may depend on how well your new brakes were installed. Don’t cut corners.
At R1 Concepts Brake Parts online, we offer high quality brake rotors, pads, caliper and more. Shop online or give us a call today at 888-712-6623.