Guide
Questions to ask before you approve a repair
You do not have to be a car person to ask good questions. These seven help you understand what is being done and why. A good shop answers them without fuss.
The seven questions
1. What did you find, and how did you find it? Ask what test or inspection showed the problem.
2. What happens if I wait? Some repairs are safety items and some can wait a month.
3. Can I see the old part, or a photo of it?
4. Is this price the total, with parts, labor and fees? Ask for it in writing.
5. Are the parts new, rebuilt or used, and what is the warranty?
6. Does the diagnostic fee go toward the repair if I go ahead?
7. Will you call me before doing any work that is not on this quote?
If the answers do not help
Get a second quote. Take the first quote with you so the second shop prices the same job. You can compare both to the typical range on our repair pages.
Updated 2026-10-28. Not a repair shop, estimates only.