Have you ever needed an automotive service facility but didn't know where to go? The Automotive Service Association (ASA), the largest non profit national trade association of its kind, recommends that you follow these guidelines when evaluating an automotive service business.

1. Ask if technicians are ASE-certified or I-CAR trained. If technicians are ASE-certified, it means they have passed a voluntary competency test offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). If body technicians or painters are I-CAR trained, it means they have attended a course or series of courses offered by the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) to help upgrade their repair skills. Businesses with trained personnel are likely to display these and other certificates or diplomas in their customer waiting areas.
   
   
2. Ask about the facilities's industry and consumer affiliations. For example, a business that is a member of ASA has agreed to uphold the association's Code of Ethics, which sets the standards for professionalism in the automotive service industry. In addition, consumers may wish to check the business' affiliation with AAA or consumer organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
   
   
3. Expect the automotive service facility to be neat, clean and well-organized. The flow of existing work should be almost unnoticeable
   
   
4. Notice whether the employees are helpful and courteous. This will give you an idea of how you will be treated throughout the service of your vehicle.
   
   
5. Ask the business to provide a list of references and be prepared to contact these customers.
   
   
6. Ask how long the facility has been in business. How long has the business been at its current location? Does the business usually perform the type of service that your vehicle needs? Remember too, that some businesses specialize in repairs for certain vehicles makes and models.
   
   
7. Gain an understanding of the equipment that will be used to service the vehicle by asking plenty of questions. A business must have the proper equipment to correctly diagnose and perform the needed repairs.
   
   
8. Check what guarantees the business offers. Most automotive service facilities guarantee their parts and labor, and these guarantees are usually posted.
   
   
9. Make sure a written estimate is provided prior to letting the business begin the repair. Any changes to the estimate that exceed 10 percent should have your approval. After the repair, ask to see the parts that have been replaced.
   
   
10. Last, but not least, a good service facility can usually be found by asking family, friends, neighbors and co-workers for their recommendations.

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