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Where to go for repairs in an unfamiliar area? Private shop or Dealer?

As previously mentioned, I'm new to the Seattle area. Normally I would ask friends for references for repair shops, but since I don't know anyone I really can't do that.

So basically I'm down to picking one out of the phone book and/or reading online reviews which may or may not be valid.

I realize that dealerships tend to be more expensive than private shops, but since I'm going into it 'blind', could one assume that they are generally more 'trustworthy' than independent shops? Vice Versa?

Or is it just a crapshoot either way?

Thanks for any suggestions.

-phaeton

Reply to
phaeton
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You could ask for referrals here...start a new thread; specify what part of the city and what repairs you need done...that's what I'd do.

Then visit (not phone) the shop for a quote. You should be able to get a 'feel' for things that way.

--Don

Don Byrer KJ5KB Radar Tech & Smilin' Commercial Pilot Guy Glider & CFI wannabe kj5kb-at-hotmail.com

"I have slipped the surly bonds of earth; now if I can just land without bending the gear..." "Watch out for those doves..."

Reply to
Don Byrer

You can't beat Scott Sherman Auto Care of 3400 16th Avenue West Seattle phone (206) 322-0886. Ask for Scott and tell him that Gort McFadden sent you.

Reply to
GortWeasel

Thanks Gort. Unfortunately I'm in Kent, and the distance may complicate things. I'll have to review the bus schedules here and see if I can get home from there if I drop my truck off after 5pm. Otherwise, I'll check Scott out.

-phaeton

Reply to
phaeton

why not just ask the waitress in the restaurant, the bellman in the hotel, the taxi driver. something like that. Don't go to dealer. go to a small shop. get a firm quote before the guy starts the work. If you know exactly what you need done then call around for the best price. Don't just call the first 3 shops in the yellow pages. call until the price is what you think is resonable.

Reply to
boxing

You cannot assume that a dealership will be more competent nor more honest than an independent shop. They may BE excellent, but there is no guarantee. Neither is an independent to be taken as honest and good.

If you dont know anyone to ask, go to the AAA website and search for their list of approved mechanics or garages. This will give you a shortlist to work from.

I havent used this feature in a number of years, but on those occasions I did use it, I was not disappointed.

Reply to
HLS

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