Right Column
Finding a Repair Shop
Step 2: What questions should I ask?
Here are some questions to ask a repair shop you are considering using. You may think of others. The important thing is to learn something about the shop before using them.
- Ask if the station is licensed. All stations must be licensed by the State of California.
- How can I check to find out if the shop is licensed before I go in? You can check the station's license by visiting BAR's License Search for Auto Repair Dealers.
- What if the station isn't licensed? If the station is not licensed, they should be reported to the Bureau of Automotive Repair. When you choose to do business with an unlicensed station, your mediation options may be limited if you find yourself in a dispute with the station. You may decide to report an unlicensed shop
- How can I find out if there are any complaints about the shop? Contact the Better Business Bureau in your area. You can also check for disciplinary actions.
- Ask for the shop's hourly rates. Use this information when you compare estimates from different shops.

