Questions to Ask a Mechanic Before Getting Your Car Fixed
Matt Wrankmore, Head of FixMyCar’s Garage Network, reveals the 10 questions drivers should ask before booking a repair.
Book a car repair nowEllie Dyer-Brown
Friday September 19 2025
4 min read
1. What is the problem with my car?
Once the mechanic has seen your car, you should ask them to confirm and explain the problem – even if you think you already know what it is. You can only make an informed decision about a repair if you fully understand the issue at hand, so you should gather as much information as possible before moving forward.
2. What are my repair options?
Some problems are straightforward, with one possible repair. Others may have multiple solutions. That's why it's worth asking your mechanic what options you have before committing to one.
A trustworthy mechanic will be happy to explain the pros and cons of different repairs, providing honest advice about the best solution for your situation.
3. How much is your labour rate?
Most mechanics charge by the hour for labour, with prices generally ranging from £35 to £80 an hour. The labour rate will have a significant impact on the final repair price, especially for complex jobs like clutch replacements, so it's worth considering this when you compare garages.
4. Can you provide a written estimate of how much the repair will cost?
Ideally, you want a complete breakdown of the cost, showing parts and labour, not just a total repair price. If you receive a quote that isn't detailed enough, don't be afraid to ask the mechanic how it was calculated and to adjust the quote to reflect this information.
Having a written record of the estimated price is important in case the final repair invoice is more expensive - you want to be able to see exactly where the extra costs came from and why they were necessary.
5. What parts will be used, OEM or aftermarket?
OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. These parts are made by the same company that created the original parts for your car, so they are of a very high quality and often come with a warranty, but they can also be expensive and difficult to source for older vehicles.
Aftermarket parts are made by a third-party company. Their quality can vary, and they usually don't come with a warranty, but they are a cheaper option than OEM.
Learn more about OEM vs aftermarket parts.
Understanding what parts will be used for your car repair can help you assess whether the quote you received is reasonable. Knowing that a garage uses OEM parts may provide reassurance since this is the safest option and the sign of a quality repair.
6. Roughly how long will the repair take?
It's worth checking roughly how long the repair will take so you have an idea of when your car will be ready. Remember that this is an estimate, not a promise - every repair is slightly different. You could also ask the mechanic to keep you informed if any issues arise that will extend the repair time.
7. Will you contact me before carrying out any unexpected repairs?
This is one of the most important questions to ask a mechanic. The last thing you want is a nasty surprise on the final repair invoice because extra work was carried out without your consent. Make it clear that all work must be approved by you.
A good garage will consult with you before carrying out any unexpected repairs, but it's still worth getting confirmation of this beforehand to be extra sure.
8. Does the repair come with a warranty?
Ask if they offer a warranty on their services and parts. Many mechanics stand by the quality of their work by offering a warranty of between three and 12 months.
9. Are you accredited by The Motor Ombudsman or any other industry body?
Accreditation with recognised organisations such as The Motor Ombudsman (TMO) demonstrates that a garage follows strict codes of practice, meets high service standards and offers access to independent dispute resolution if something goes wrong.
All garages on FixMyCar's FixRated network are members of an industry body like TMO.
10. Are you a member of any approved garage networks?
Like The Motor Ombudsman, approved garage networks ensure high standards of repair; membership of any networks like FixRated should give you extra confidence that your car is in good hands.
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Matt Wrankmore has over 17 years of experience working within the aftermarket at companies including Halfords and FixMyCar. This career has given Matt vast expertise in auto repair and the wider aftermarket, along with a strong network of relationships across the industry. As Head of Garage Network, he utilises these relationships and his knowledge to enhance the platform, adding value for FixMyCar’s garage network while staying on the pulse of industry changes that impact both garages and drivers.