Beware of Car Repair Scams

To most of us our cars are a necessity and when they break down it can be very frustrating. But what’s even more frustrating is when you take your car in for minor repairs or inspection that you can run the risk of being ripped off by unscrupulous mechanics. There are some mechanics that are obvious in their attempts to scam the public but there are other mechanics that have mastered the art of scamming and can easily trick you into paying too much for repairs. Don’t get caught spending more than what you need to on car repairs learn six of the tricky car repair scams some mechanics may try to pull.

· Oil shortage – This happens when the mechanic pushes the oil dipstick only halfway, making it seem as if your oil is low. The mechanic seems to be adding oil from an empty container. This is more likely to happen with gas stations that have service attendants that fill gas or check oils. The solution is to learn how to check your own oil it is not difficult and takes no more than a few minutes and it can save you money. 

· Alternating the alternator – The mechanic pours a small amount of antifreeze on the alternator and then tells you that you need a new alternator. Instead of putting in a new one the mechanic may install your old one – a double deceit. If you are having alternator problems you will have difficulty starting your car and it will sound as if your car is running on the battery alone, which it is and eventually your battery will die. If your car wasn’t smoking on the way to the gas station then it is not smoking at the gas station. Also, alternator problems build up over time.