We all have our trusted mechanic who comes to mind whenever something goes wrong with our car. But what do you do if that trusted mechanic is unavailable and you need help fast? You find another one. Here are some things you should keep in mind when looking for one.

Ask Your Friends and Family for Recommendations

If you’re in a pinch, the first thing you should do is ask your family and friends if they have any recommendations. The mechanic that they recommend might not be the best fit for your car, but at least you have a starting point. It’s also a good idea to let your friends and family know why you need the mechanic. For example, if you’re having a problem with your tires, they may recommend someone who specializes in tires instead of someone who specializes in body work.

Look for Certified Mechanics

When you’re on the hunt for a reliable mechanic, you should make sure they are certified. A mechanic who is certified by the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has passed a rigorous test covering different car systems. Some companies, like Flynn’s Tire and Auto Service, know that this shows that the mechanic has an in-depth knowledge of their craft. This is important to consider when selecting a mechanic to work on your car.

Check Out the Neighborhood Shops

If you own a car and you’re in an area where there are multiple mechanics, you should try to visit each of the shops in your neighborhood. While you might be tempted to trust the first mechanic you meet, it’s best to visit a few shops before you decide. Why? Because different mechanics are better suited to different cars and you may find you have a better rapport with one mechanic over another.

Read Reviews

When you’re choosing a mechanic, you should read their reviews. You can find reviews on websites like Yelp, Google, and Facebook as well as on the mechanic’s website. Reviews can tell you a lot about a mechanic, such as the quality of their work, their prices, and their customer service.

Nobody plans for their car to break down, but it happens. If you own a car, don’t forget to keep the number of a reliable mechanic in your phone. Being able to rely on a great mechanic who can help you out of a sticky situation can give you peace of mind when you’re cruising on the highway.