Misconception #3: A shop can give you an accurate price quote over the phone without seeing your car.
We understand that in comparing a shop one of the main concerns is cost. So a natural question that you have every right to ask is how much will this repair cost. We however dont believe that this should be the primary focus of your initial evaluation process. You can waste your time calling 10 different shops and get 10 different price quotes and chances are every one of them will be wrong. Unless the shop has had a chance to examine or test drive the car in person, there is no way to accurately diagnose your problem and give you an accurate price quote. Some repairs can be accurately evaluated and estimated with a simple free or inexpensive inspection by a qualified professional. Diagnosis is more difficult to estimate because many times there is no way to determine the final price before the complete diagnosis is made. Even in these cases however there should be a maximum price agreed to so that you are protected and informed every step of the way.
Beware of any shop that is willing to give you a quote over the phone without seeing the car. They may tell you a real low price just to get you to set up an appointment. Look for shops that want to build a relationship and look out for your best interests.
