Quote, estimate and final bill
People use these words loosely, so ask what the mechanic means. A quote is usually a firmer price for a defined job. An estimate is a best guess that can change once the work starts. The final bill is what you actually pay.
Whatever it is called, get it in writing, whether on paper, by text or by email. It should describe the work clearly enough that you both agree on what is included.
Parts
Each part should be listed with a price. Look at the type of part being used.
- OEM (original equipment manufacturer): made by or for the vehicle's manufacturer, usually matching the original part.
- Aftermarket: made by another company to fit your vehicle. Quality ranges widely, from equal to or better than OEM to lower grade.
- Remanufactured or rebuilt: a used part restored to working condition, common for starters, alternators and some larger components.
- Used or salvage: taken from another vehicle. Sometimes the only option for older vehicles; ask about warranty.
Labor
Labor is the mechanic's time and skill. Many mechanics price labor using published time guides for each job, while others charge a flat price per job. Either way, the quote should make it clear how labor is charged.
If two quotes differ a lot on labor for the same job, ask why. One may include extra steps, such as replacing related parts or doing a fluid flush, that the other leaves out.
Diagnostic, trip and other fees
Finding the cause of a problem takes time and equipment, so many mechanics charge a diagnostic fee. It covers testing, not the repair itself. Ask up front whether the diagnostic fee is credited toward the repair if you have that mechanic do the work.
A diagnostic fee is fair. What matters is that you know about it before the mechanic starts.
Some mobile mechanics charge a trip or service-call fee for coming to you. Others include travel in their labor or job pricing. Either approach is fine as long as it is on the quote. You may also see shop supplies (small items like cleaners, rags and fasteners), disposal fees for old oil, fluids, batteries or tires, and sales tax. Ask about any line you do not understand.
Warranty and what is not included
Ask whether the parts and the labor come with a warranty, and for how long. Parts warranties and labor warranties are sometimes different. Get the terms in writing.
A good quote also says what is not included. For example, a brake pad quote might not include rotors, or a repair might need an alignment at a shop afterward. Knowing this avoids surprises.
Approve changes before extra work
Once a mechanic starts, they sometimes find another problem, such as a leaking hose next to the part they are replacing. That is normal. What is not okay is doing the extra work and adding it to the bill without asking.
Agree at the start that the mechanic will stop, explain any new finding, and give you a price before doing more. Get the approval in writing, even a text. You can also ask to see or keep the old parts.
- Read the whole quote before work starts.
- Ask about any line you do not understand.
- Confirm the diagnostic fee and trip fee, if any.
- Confirm the part type and warranty.
- Agree that extra work needs your approval first.
- Compare the final bill to the quote before paying.
Quotes through Trackara Find
When you send a request through Trackara Find, the mechanic quotes before starting and you pay the mechanic directly. Trackara never handles payment for the work. If you want a second opinion, compare quotes line by line rather than by the total alone. See how it works or our tips on choosing a mobile mechanic.