How to Find a Good Mechanic in Sacramento

Step by step

1. Look up the BAR registration in the DCA license search, and check for disciplinary history.
2. Ask about ASE certification for the technician who'll work on your car.
3. Describe the problem, not the fix. Say what you hear, feel and see, and let the shop diagnose it.
4. Get the estimate before work starts, with parts and labor listed.
5. Ask how the repair is covered in months and miles, and get it in writing.
6. Approve extra work only after a call that explains why it's needed and what it costs.
7. Keep the itemized invoice and any parts you asked to have returned.

Is the shop registered with BAR?

Every auto repair dealer in California, including mobile repair businesses, must be registered with the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). Registration means the business has to follow the Automotive Repair Act: estimates, authorizations, itemized invoices, and a complaint process if things go wrong.

To check, search the business name or license number in the DCA license search, which shows license status and any disciplinary history. The license number must also appear on your invoice. BAR's Auto Shop Locator lists registered businesses by city or ZIP code and can filter for Smog Check, general repair and mobile repair.

What does ASE certification mean?

ASE, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, is an independent nonprofit the auto industry founded in 1972. It certifies individual technicians, not businesses. To earn a certification, a technician must pass a test in a specific area, such as brakes or engine performance, and show at least two years of qualifying work experience. Certifications must be renewed by retesting every five years.

ASE also recognizes Blue Seal shops, where at least 75% of the technicians doing diagnosis and repair are ASE-certified and every service area has at least one certified technician. ASE certification is voluntary; BAR registration is the legal requirement.

What should a good estimate include?

Under BAR's rules, the estimate describes the specific job and the price for parts and labor, and each part is new unless it's marked used, rebuilt or reconditioned. Sales tax shows up only on the final invoice. Shops can't add a general 'shop supplies' charge; supplies used on your car have to be itemized, and any hazardous-waste disposal fee must be listed separately.

If the shop has to take something apart to find the problem, it owes you a tear-down estimate first, then a second estimate for the actual repair. You can approve by signature, by phone, or by text or email, and the shop records your approval on the estimate.

Dealer, independent shop or mobile mechanic?

Kelley Blue Book notes that dealers focus on one or two makes, usually use factory parts, and have training their labor rates may reflect, while independent shops work on many makes and may use aftermarket parts, which can lower the price. Mobile mechanics bring the tools to you for jobs that don't need a lift.

Choosing an independent shop doesn't void your warranty. BAR says the warranty stays in effect if the shop uses appropriate parts and procedures. Safety recalls are fixed free through the manufacturer, so check NHTSA.gov/recalls with your VIN before paying for a repair that might be covered.

What are the red flags?

Walk away, or at least get a second opinion, if a shop:

• Won't give you an estimate, or wants to start before you approve one.
• Can't or won't show a BAR registration number.
• Adds work without calling you first.
• Charges a vague 'shop supplies' fee instead of itemizing supplies.
• Pushes an expensive part, like a catalytic converter, without testing cheaper possibilities first.
• Won't return your old parts after you asked for them when you authorized the work.

What if something goes wrong?

Talk to the shop's manager first, with your estimate and invoice. If that doesn't resolve it, file a complaint with BAR. BAR mediates disputes; a representative typically contacts you within 7 to 10 business days and may ask for estimates, invoices or photos. Resolutions can include a refund, a bill adjustment or the shop redoing the work at no cost. For a new car with a defect the manufacturer can't fix, California's Lemon Law may apply.

Frequently asked questions

Available across the Sacramento area

• Sacramento
• Elk Grove
• Roseville
• Folsom
• Citrus Heights
• Rancho Cordova
• Rocklin
• Lincoln
• Davis
• West Sacramento
• Woodland
• El Dorado Hills
• Carmichael
• Fair Oaks
• Orangevale
• Arden-Arcade
• Antelope
• North Highlands
• Granite Bay
• Gold River
• Rio Linda
• Galt
• Auburn
• Cameron Park
• Placerville
• Loomis