The BIGGEST mistakes when... Going to the mechanic | ReDriven
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 ส.ค. 2023
- When you go to the mechanic you want to make it as easy and smooth as possible and we should know, we run one! So avoid these mistakes like the plague!
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Do a video on how to find a good/reliable mechanics and avoid crappy work getting done or at least what warning signs to be on the look out for
This!
You need to do a video on how not to get ripped off or how to pick a good mechanic to begin with.
What really annoys me is seeing people I know get ripped off from dodgy mechanics by either not doing their jobs correctly or by having a general a service done and being told a certain part needs to be replaced when it really doesn't eg being told brake pads need to be done but they got done on the last service.
As a former mechanic specialising in Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes and Porsche (and all in between), I've certainly made my own recommendations to friends and family when having their vehicles serviced. Firstly, always read the dealer's small print on the service form before you hand over your vehicle, even if for a basic service. Always included in said dealer's disclaimer is that, if any damage is sustained to your vehicle, while under the care of the dealer, i.e. dents, scratches, buff marks, interior tears/stains to fabric, etc, they (THE DEALER) cannot be held as responsible. So, if a mechanic walks past your pride and his 21mm ring spanner in his overall pocket, bangs against your vehicle, then it's your fault. To avoid this, simply have the sales representative present with you, as you point out to him/her, what marks/scratches etc that you are already aware of and have them note this down, before handing over the keys. Do the same again, when collecting your vehicle, not when you get home. Secondly, if the mechanic/dealership says you need new brake pads and or new rotors, air filter element and most commonly spark plugs, get them to physically show you...this is the most common rip-off I've seen. I took my Honda CRV in and was given this very scenario (brake pads). I knew that my driving style and the current distance covered in-between the last service, would not warrant such replacement. I asked to inspect my vehicle whilst up on the hoist but was told 'No entry into workshop'. So, I asked that I be shown the actual worn pad as proof. This they also refused, so asked that a mobile phone photo be taken instead. This annoyed them somewhat, but they finally gave in..only for them to have deliberately taken a picture of another vehicle's worn pads and not mine. Needless to say, I wrote to Honda head office and said dealership confirmed that the 2 staff involved in this scam had since been removed. My point? Don't be afraid to challenge any repairs or other parts that you rightly know, don't need to be replaced. It's your pride and joy. Not theirs to rip you off. Happy motoring.
Similiar experience, ironically also at a Honda dealership.
Same experience at Nissan Dealership with family Pulsar. I was told spark plugs needed to be changed... I only changed them the day before and used premium plugs. Told them this and asked to see the ones they took out. They simply ignored the request. Parents at the time didn't want to make a scene, but I sure did.
@@patroln48 cheeky pricks, I hope you gave them a serve, I would have lost it
I don't know any good mechanics like Rayman and Eric O so I took a great step foward and get a factory service manual so I know how to deal with most of the issues. With diagnostic software and parts catalouge it really changed my ownership into an actual one because now I owned the problems as well.
So true, I remember my time both as a mechanic, and on service reception. People complaining about repair quotes, saying they'll do it themselves. Then coming back on a Saturday, as we were closing with a random car part in one hand, a repair manual in the other and a confused look on their face. Then wanting free advice and a long conversation about it!! F.O.
Tell them it needs to be booked in and be put on the hoist, no driveway diagnostics are done here, and the next available appointment is 6 months away.
I have a friend who is a mechanic and I can verify that more time is needed than you think. I spent a whole day with him working on a major service for my vehicle. As efficient and brilliant as he was, he still needed nearly the whole day. You really appreciate a mechanic's know-how when you spend a day with them. I was very fortunate to have had this experience.
I had to get a mechanic to work on my zd30 patrol for head gasket as well as other things. He had it for a month. I didn't ring him once to check up on him. When I picked it up he explained why he had it so long, but because of my patience he did a dyno tune for free.
Be patient with your mechanics.
There’s surely a business opportunity for you here Jim to establish a network of reputable mechanics. They’re impossibly hard to find.
Now do a video of what mechanics need to do when working on cars and how they treat customers. There should be even more material for that.
it would be endless. Mechanic tried to charge me for the time it took him to look for a part and the calls he had to make. Do I charge him for the time I needed to take to then look for the parts myself?????? If you can't do the job or find the part, then sorry, the labour is on the mechanic. Not my problem he took the car apart before he had the part in hand
Indeed. One of my pet peeves is having to readjust the mirrors, seat and steering position, and dispose of the seat/floor protectors - leave it the way you found it.
Can't always agree. A mechanic had my 1st Gen Honda CRV for 5 weeks before admitting he had no idea what was wrong with it. Turned out to be a dizzy that needed a rebuild but that useless prick took 5 weeks to figure that out
Great vid but unfortunately not all mechanics are as effective and honest as yours. Many dodgy mechanics out there who cause a world of pain for people
Ahh this video needed to be said but may be a controversial one. I am not sure if it was the smartest move to release this video for the Redriven brand as it seemed more like a rant than it was adding any value to the viewers...
If you drive a European car or any car with a lock nut. Please don't bring the car with a full boot. And if you must have a full boot, one large thing (pram, baby seat, crate, etc) is better than lots of small things (clothes, sporting equipment, etc). If we need to get wheels off, we need to access the spare and we don't want to spend 20 minutes clearing your boot first.
Source: I may work at a certain Euro dealer maybe 300m away from where this was filmed
Lost a lot of respect for both you after this.... "Trust" a mechanic?
I could call out a few places... Word of mouth is much more reliable than a random.. Wiper blades for $120? Yeah, nah I'll do it myself.
I was quoted around 5k to "fix" my GC8. Went to an engineer who does Subaru, $800 later. WORD OF MOUTH!
So true. Did my apprenticeship on Renault and Peugeot vehicles 45 years ago. R16TS , Peugeot 504s etc. Yes I am a masochist. Finished apprenticeship and stopped being a mechanic. Still in auto trade. Last 38 years with Hardy Spicer = Tailshafts & Hydraulics. We still sell centre bearings for Commodore's from the original supplier same with new Ford BF/FG tailshafts.
So many home mechanics bring in shafts they tried to fix and have destroyed or bring in a shaft with shit they have bought on EBay and then cry when we tell them it will cost this much to fix properly.
Other side of the coin. Have a 12 month old Pajero Sport. Drivers side window thinks someone has stuck their arm through it when closing it automatically auto reverses down about 100mm. Small pain but you have to hold up to close it, then hold up for a few seconds to reset it. It needs adjusting. Went to the dealer an apparently I don't know how to use an automatic window switch.
Moral of this ramble is there are great customers and dick heads. There are great mechanics and dick heads.
OEM dealers take the cake with customers have NFI. I fixed that attitude on this occasion.
16ts eh ? Easy to rebuild engines fantastically reliable, robust and comfortable ride I can still see ideas from it in cars today, Honda Jazz, Subaru Forester, rust got the better of my 2 Renaults but mechanically perfect on demise
Who else has booked their car in for a service and the mechanic says ‘can you drop it off around 8am’… and somehow takes 5-7hrs for an oil change service!?!?
I’m on time… but do mechanics know how to manage theirs?!🤣
Mine wont let me drop it off before 7.30am. I start work at 6am. They also call at 5pm saying be here before 5.20pm to pick it up.
But I tell them I finish at 6
What annoys me of mechanics:
Book at 9 am I asked how many hours you need the car they said couple so I think midday maybe 1 pm but no just before they close at 5 pm 🤬 be honest and tell me come back tomorrow morning!!
I almost spat my Bev when he said about being on time!!
Mechanics are horrendous at booking job times and time management.
Yeah I really don't get why they made this video. The price mechanics charge....they're the ones that need the video. Extremely condescending imo @@lukeclifton4392
Wow, if you don’t want to fit parts I supply then bye bye. So you want to order cheap arse brake pads and rotors , then double the price that you paid and add that to what I pay. Nope. I will go and get my own quality parts that I know and which I can get for less than the price you charge me for much lesser quality. Given mechanics change around $150 an hour or more I don’t see why I also need to given you a very fat margin on parts I don’t want on top.
Did you write this using only your index fingers, whilst chewing your tongue?
Have to partially agree. I know why they don't like it but I'll supply genuine parts with the understanding there is no warranty on parts - and the labour cost if it fails.
$150hr… That’s a sly brag that own a MB😂😂, or your mechanic is a greedy MF.
The reason mechanics don't use the customer's parts is because the customer may have incorrectly diagnosed the car and using the customer's parts means that the mechanic can't provide warranties for their work done... Yes, I'm aware that there's many cowboy mechanics which use sh@t parts but you probably shouldn't be supplying your own parts, as they're probably also sh@t...
@@MartinJones123 utter bs.
Sadly I have met some terrible mechanics who scammed me and lied me about repairs done. I only use authorized places by the manufacturer of my car. 0 trust to a local mechanic
This is where I'm at now unfortunately. Which is sad. It would be good to find an honest local mechanic.
@@andrewg2618 I hear you. I totaled 1000 euros of being lied for ball join and bushings change and transmission oil change. None of this was done at all. I failed to pass inspection thinking my car is mint. Bought my parts and went to a friend and changed it together. Never again. Not mentioning the 'grey economic' sector in Europe even western Europe where they try to avoid giving invoices and just keep it 'friendly service' for lower price under the table.
All fair comments. However, in any industry there are some unscrupulous individuals, or even shop/dealerships. Using a home OBD scanner will not magically transform you into a mechanic, but it should give you a reasonable indication of where the likely problems lie.
Remember that mechanics could diagnose problems long before the time of sensors and on-board computers. So if you have a dodgy wheel bearing, you may get the ABS light come on, and some codes generated. But you may also get whining or grinding or a wobbly wheel [severe case] in that area.
So if it does look like an expensive fix, get a second opinion. [Or quotes]. Some wheel bearings are quick and relatively easy to replace, and some take a lot of hard work.
And remember, just getting a code might not mean anything other than a wonky sensor. it happens, especially with exhaust oxygen sensors.
Traps for DIY, special tools. Yes, sometimes you can make them yourself, but it can add substantially to the cost of a DIY job. Mechanics have access to all the special tools and manuals and specs.
Sometimes special tools are not available to the public, and that includes retired mechanics like me and independent mechanics. If in doubt, take it to a reputable shop and grin and bear the pain to your wallet.
Took a car to MYcar at cairns for a rego check and they came back with a big list of crap that when challenged they could not actually show or demonstrate to me … four years and many thousands of kilometres , across Australia twice many mechanics and inspections later none of those items were faulty and this really pisses me off!!
Don't take your car to Mycar... They're Kmart Tyre and Auto by another name. Enough said.
Check the work done before you leave if possible. Had a screwdriver score made in the crankshaft during a timing belt change causing an ongoing oil leak. Noticed the issue when I went to do the next oil change as there was a sponge inside the bash guard to catch the oil to hide the mistake. The next mechanic said they'd likey used a screwdriver to remove the old belt. As it was well past the work being done there was no recourse. Leak remains. Mechanic repairs need greater transparency.
All good advice. I’m glad you mentioned giving your mechanic a clean and tidy car to work on. We’ve been taking our cars to our local garage for almost twenty years and the owner (Darren at Faulconbridge Automotive, great bloke and excellent mechanic) told us he likes working on them as they are always clean. As you said, it’s the workplace and we should respect that and the people doing the work. Cheers.
Upsell is a big thing in dealerships for both techs and service advisors. If the way they are paid is changed, then it would be better for everyone.
When I was a mechanic at Mazda...they were charging $120 for my labour. I was on $18 an hr.
This was about 15 years ago but it hasn't got much better, especially for stealerships and wages.
Well done boys. This is what is so wrong with our society. We are at a point where the basics need to be thought again. I 100% agree with everything you guys said today.
yeah like not charging $200 an hour. That would be a nice start
@@andrewg2618 Rent, public liability insurance, professional indemnity insurance, Workcover premium, rates, water rates, electricity, admin expenses, tooling, training, cleaning, wages, finance costs, PPE... These guys aren't working under a carport with a nearly complete set of Sidchrome spanners and a hex key kit. They're lucky if they see a quarter of their hourly charge out rate. For some, that would be a dream come true.
@@andrewg2618that response is kind of the problem though. A mechanic finally gets the chance to actually talk about some bad customer behaviour, and your immediate response is “what about my issue?”.
@@andrewg2618 you are right about dealership - This is about independent mechanic
As a former service advisor, it’s really a pain when customers will just add a lot of issues once they’re in the shop and not include it when they booked their car for a service (sometimes express service). Then they do not like the diagnostic charge, and expect the car to be fixed within the hour.
Excellent episode and info guys 🙏🙏😎
Excellent presentation gents. I agree.
I note a good many self saucing, beard strokers commenting about various issues they have with mechanics, but I especially enjoy the ones who suggest a problem is a simple fix and they looked it up on the internet...😂😂😂 my common retort is to suggest they fix it themselves... And if you buy your own parts my price increases or you fit it yourself. 🤨
Don’t do wipers yourself. “Wiper tech are sponsors” haha. Love the content guys. 😘
I was just thinking that myself 🤣
😂 nice pick up
That's a really good video guys. I have four cars and a great mechanic whose wife is on the front desk and his son is the apprentice. Really great people who live, breath and know cars, I respect their skills!
Fantastic video Jim and Adam. All to often we hear about how it only takes 5 minutes to find it on the scan tool. People don't understand about diagnosis and just how long it can really take. We also hear about it being covered under warranty. The manufacturer is the only one who decides warranty !!!!. Great show guys we need more videos like this.
When I was a mechanic at a dealer I had to remove the drivers seat, as I went to undo the first bolt under the front of it there was a huge green collection of snot that the driver had wiped there over the years.
I refused to work on it.🤢
A lot of people are disgusting…. Heaps of bio-hazards on wheels out there
Mate I’m a Nurse in theatre. You want to see the state of the human bodies we have to “work” on. !!
@@chrro466Thankyou! Having been In theatre numerous times, you are the ones that make all the difference on the front line. The only thing I will say is that I CHOSE to work on cars not other people's snot. I'm guessing you chose to work on 'bodies'.
It's like if you know someone is coming to your house and you know they are going to use your toilet do you leave a massive turd in the bowl for them to 'enjoy'?
@@rhyswoodman6781 😂😂😂I got the image, yep I agree with you unfortunately I can’t choose who we work on but you are lucky in that you can close the door on the dirty pigs.
I hate using the keyboards at work because god alone knows what body fluids are on them so I know how you feel. 🤙🏼
All mostly agreeable but don't see any issue with bringing in parts for you guys to fit. Assuming they are reputable/name brand components. Why should I have to fit your x brand brake pads when I want Ferodos for instance? Additionally all the mechanics I have been to have been *mostly* good, but I've caught all of them out cutting corners and not doing the right thing eg/ fitting full wiper blade arms when they could have just replaced the inserts, not changing rear bank spark plugs on a transverse V6, doing other random shit without authorisation.
I booked my mechanic to fit some aftermarket engine and transmission mounts for my car - I was told in advance that they wouldn't honour the warranty (which was understandable), but had no dramas with getting the parts installed.
No harm in checking beforehand.
If quoted for a job to replace brake pads, and then you supply you own, you are eating into the total margin on that job, and so should expect to pay more for the time.
If people are hesitant about taking their car to an unknown mechanic shop, just look up the google reviews and read the comments and decide whether to try it or move on.
Watched this before I went to the mechanics today.... dropped off and picked up like a pro. I liked the short on old school trends btw.
Nice one. Shared with my Auto-elec mate, tipping many of these apply. 👍
Word of mouth is probably the best way to find a good mechanic.I found a really good one when I was having issues with an old car of mine.He told me to "buy a Toyota".
Haven't seen him in over 5 yrs.(Do basic servicing myself)
You guys are brilliant. I work for Toyota as a service advisor so all days I’m dealing with people and their cars. And EVERYTHING! your say it’s valid. All these things do my fucking head in
Service advisor = receptionist. There, fixed your job title for you.
The biggest mistake I'd suggest avoiding is choosing the wrong mechanic for the problem you have in the first place ... it's fine taking your 2020 Corolla to the nearest generic mechanical franchise for a logbook service or routine repair, but don't expect them to know how to fix that intermittent electrical gremlin that might be peculiar to your rare imported sports car/off-roader/JDM/classic. And if you do, don't lose your rag when it costs more to fix because they took longer to find the problem, or couldn't fix it at all. Choose your mechanic carefully, and not just because they look like the cheapest option.
I've been taking my Alfas - from the '80s and noughties eras - to the same old Italian fella and his boys for more than a decade. They've been in business for 30 odd years and are brilliant. Usually able to diagnose and fix the obscurest of issues first time, which usually also means saving money. I've spent a fair bit with them over the decade, but I reckon they've also saved me a fortune through prevention and fixing things properly the first time.
At the same time, I take the wife's 2019 Forester (and the two she owned prior to that) to the local branded franchise workshop for servicing instead of the Subaru dealer, and they are terrific too. Recently saved us a fortune during a routine service by pointing out the lower control arm bushes were pretty much cactus, and instead of just quoting the job to replace them, advised that given their state after just 85,000km, Subaru ought to replace them under warranty. Which - credit to both the dealer and Subaru - were fixed free of charge after I took the car in and showed them the workshop report.
Do please continue w/content like this :) What pissed me off (based on actual experience...), VW dealership service advisor told me there was a recall on a part on my vehicle. Then charges me for for "certain parts" that weren't covered and labour - of course in the past I didn't know better, I just paid up just to get out of there just to not stress about it. Traded it in for a different vehicle a year or two later. Months down the road after visiting a friend from that facility... she was let go because apparently she did that to other VW owners - that made me feel better
VW, say no more. Criminals by decree of the courts, and all of the morality that goes with it.
I agree with what you say, but this only applies in a perfect world were all mechanics have same attitude in their work as Jim does, the other side of the coin is finding a decent honest mechanic to begin with.
Some mechanics charge OEM prices for cheaper aftermarket parts.
Safe to say I’ll rather bring my own part.
I get what you’re saying but also I feel so many times like mechanics are just trying to get every penny out of me that they can. The amount they charge for things like changing a busted globe etc is absolutely extortionate. I understand paying a fair bit for engine repairs but charging $$$ for the trivial stuff is simply wrong. Kinda like a restaurant charging $50 for a steak and $50 for chips - seems wrong hey?
exactly
Depends on how painful that globe is to access
@@markward2824and if it's genuine or aftermarket.
A standard D3S Xenon headlight globe aftermarket, for an example? About $140 for a decent quality pair. On a Land Rover? About $350 *each*.
I got a phone call from the Volkswagen workshop during a routine service, suggesting new wiper blades for my wife's Polo. $141. I declined and bought two sets from your sponsor, Wipertech, for $75 each. Fantastic wipers, less than a minute to fit and I have a set on my car too. Actually, I have been buying Wipertech blades for years now and would recommend them to anyone.
Brilliant vent session guys.
What pisses me off is you go to some ‘dealer’ mechanics only to pick your car up and nothing of what you requested to get done…. Is done.
Have witnessed this 1st hand. Dealer tried to charge customer for service (lined up in front of me). The customer called them out saying his car hasn't moved from the very spot he left parked it this morning (and definitely not where they park serviced cars). There was a mad scramble by the foreman, front desk and a couple of others, then apologies made to the customer and car started getting serviced at 5pm...
I actually can't believe you guys made this video. If mechanics didn't try and charge for things that were not essential. e.g. a noise in my suspension...."oh you need to replace your shockers". The ones you put in 2 years ago mate????
So what do you do for work?
what's your point? Fact is, it's hard to trust many mechanics these days. I would have thought the first video about mechanics would be to advise customers how to find a good one....not BS condescending crap like...."get there on time"@@denniswellard
@@andrewg2618 you seem to know a lot about mechanics how about you enlighten us on how find a good one or any trade. There are thieves in every trade, but these are some common courtesy that people forget.
Here's me feeling lucky I have an awesome mechanic to whom we've been sending our cars for years :P I never hesitate to recommend to others. Always top notch work, never does extra work without contacting me to make sure I'm ok with it, always presents a couple of options when it comes to parts, repairs and even leaves a little bag of lollies in the car with a business card and request to review on Google, Facebook etc. I've seen them deal with young and old, male and female, always polite and courteous and explains clearly what work has been done. Never had an issue fitting customer supplied quality parts either. And yes, I did have some bad experiences with mechanics before finding mine, so sadly, there are some dodgy ones out there.
Agree in principal re the wiper Jim but not at rip off dealers .. My Dad took his Santa Fe to Tynan here in Sydney and he'd only just fitted new blades front and rear the weekend prior. When he turned up the guy on the desk goes you need new wiper blades are you happy for us to do them. $120 for the front and $55 for the rear! No response when he asked him how was that possible as they were brand new. Spending time in the waiting room on subsequent services he said almost every client was told their wipers need replacing ..When you add the average numbers of customers that joint sees per day ( they do Hyundai, KIA, Mercedes, Chinese brands, Jeep, Subaru etc) they are looking at many hundreds of thousands of dollars just in cashflow from wiper blades..
I wish you were in Sydney and not Newy mate as I'd definitely be a customer for sure. Love the channel fella's..
All good mechanics are legends. I have the Utmost respect for all you guys and girls
If mechanics didn't charge 100 bucks for a part that someone can get from Ebay for 30 bucks, then people wouldn't bring their own parts. We all understand there is a mark up, but frankly, you guys take the piss. Halfords in the UK wanted to charge £11,99 per bulb, to change the two number plate bulbs. £23,98! I got two bulbs for 99p each and swapped them both in 5 mins. You wouldn't be happy if you got charged 50 bucks for something that you knew you could get for 10, well that goes for the rest of us with your prices.
The disgusting car part gets me. If your car is a filthy mess, most mechanics will treat it as such . A filthy car says you have no self respect and you will be treated as such. Gross.
Looking forward to that Holden Colorado video
As an ex-mechanic in Australia, I'm glad I don't have to deal with these things anymore.
Fair enough. But mechanics don't have a goof reputation. Just like doctors and lawyers.
Half are dodgy AF.
I get it about bringing your own parts. The mechanic makes profit on them too and has to be concerned about warranty. He also wants to get the car out of the workshop ASAP. But what irks me is that the local parts (for Euros at least) are often 3 times the price that you can source them from overseas and then the mechanic adds his 20% on top too! If I know in advance what's broken, I'd rather source the part myself, pay the mechanic whatever profit he has missed out on, and take on the warranty obligation myself. I'd still be well in front!
True! And when owners treat their car right, they get the good stuff! Like I prefer getting better quality engine oil, brake pads/fluid than regular stuff you usually get at the mechanics.
I wish quantum mechanics (that is ain all redriven videos) was closer than a 3 hour drive from where I live . Would go there for sure!
So... don't fit your own wipers - except for the advertised Wipertech ones.
I have a question
How do you tell from a good mechanic to a bad mechanic?
Don't trust any of them until proven. Take the time to learn about your car, especially how quickly it uses consumable items like brakes, oil, fluids, tyres. Be conscious of what it sounds like normally.
Before you take it in (especially to a dealer service dept), chalk mark nuts and bolts that will be getting serviced, check oil before and after service. Get someone you trust to check brake pads and other perishables, or learn to yourself (it's not hard).
If they hit you up for extra items on what should be a routine job - get a 2nd opinion. The amount of times I've been told, or had friends (especially females - it's utter BS how often this happens) told that they need additional parts that aren't required is ridiculous. I know some mechanics now that won't change brake pads without changing rotors - they have their reasons which might apply to a minority of cases, but utter rip off to most.
TL:DR, take the time to learn about the basic mechanics of your car, it will save you heaps.
Also, don't take a lot of trust in friend recommendations. You can't blindly rely on your friend's relationship with the mechanic to serve you as well. The mechanic may be better than others, but they will still see you as a new customer and try the usual upsells and shortcuts.
And then, if/when you find a good mechanic, take the time to foster the relationship!
One of the best vidz I've seen for while. Just use your brain and be nice 😊
I always wash and clean my car before taking it to service. This way, I can tell if the mechanic have scratched up my car... not that they intentionally do. 😁
And, make sure you leave the car keys with the mechanic. My wife once left her car at the mechanic forgetting to leave the key and was already halfway to work in a train. 😂
Also not to forget, ask how much you owe for the service when the mechanic calls you that the car is ready. This way you have the exact money when you pick up the car.
Finding a good mechanic like striking gold in Vic these days. Mine is the only woman mechanic in the town, and is the only one I trust to not try to jack up prices and me straight with me. She does fantastic work!
great video.. i didn't know some of them as i kind of don't like upset people particularly a guy who i will need more than often. but yeah customers can be rude.. but again with modern world it is kind of next level. even if i kind of know what i want the mechanic to look for.. but i let him do it his jobs.. with his huge experience.. he will definitely know what to do.. particularly on a good budget.. my rewards and only thing i can was some great magical address for parts..
Plenty of great advice in this video, though a couple of things stood out...
1. Who the hell drives their car straight into a service bay?
2. There are limited circumstances where it _might_ be OK for a customer to source their own parts for fitment, but both the mechanic and the customer have to be clear on each other's expectations i.e. if the part fails then it's not the mechanics fault. I wouldn't do this for a common car or where there's a specialist workshop for a particular make, but if you drive an old Saab and live 3 hours away from the nearest capital city, that's a different story (ask me how I know).
Great presentation guys.
As they say “ You can’t put brains in statues”
Good advise. There some things I like to do myself (considering I have an older car) like oil change, wipers, filters, etc. However, for stuff I'm uncertain about, I will always take it someone that knows more than I do. I'm no mechanic by trade (I'm in IT myself) but I try and explain the mechanic what I think it is and if they can do a diagnosis on it, to verify it or if it something completely different then what i thought.
A couple of mechanics I've been to actually don't mind (and in some cases encourage) for me to buy my own parts. However, I always buy reputable branded stuff, not the cheap eBay special crap.
And OMG, just like I hate when someone gives me a filthy laptop with shit all over the keyboard and expect me to fix it. I hate to imagine some of the cars you guys get and the condition they're in.
I was in IT when I pulled my engine and gearbox, had the engine rebuilt, put most of it back together, replaced clutch and wheel bearings etc.. nothing's too hard when you have a car that has an enthusiast community behind it with all the information available to do it right.. the only times things weren't done 100% was when I left it to the supposed experts.
Biggest mistake when going to a mechanic is paying for windscreen washer additive and engine flush additive
I had put stickers on mine to stop the mechanic doing that BS. I was charged for windscreen additive, yet I’d topped the bottle off to the brim 20yrs before taking it in for service.
Can you do a biggest mistakes people make about regular maintenance (e.g., not checking tire pressure often, oil, coolant, etc)?
And also biggest mistakes when working on their own car?
When a mechanic supplies 6 Iridium spark plugs for $240 and I can source 6 Denso iridiums for less than $70, I'll supply my own.
Yes, but you need to be carful many listings on eBay for Denso or NGK iridium are selling convincing fakes.
Know what I hate when taking my car to the Renault dealership mechanic? Being told on the phone when making the appointment that the Service Manager wasn't available to give me a quote on what it would cost me to change the timing belt on my RS265 Cup, booking it anyway and on arrival being told they wanted $4,500 for the job. I took it to a specialist and had it done for $1,500. You guys seem reasonable. Unfortunately your profession is full of a serious number of con men and hucksters trying to take advantage of people who don't know any better.
Love the advice to not cheap out and let the mechanic replace the wiper blades........and then see the pitch for wipertech!
This is fantastic, great work guys, this needs the shit shared out of it now 😂
more of these
On the parts thing, what if its something they wouldn't normally do like upgraded sway bars and if they are from a decent brand (like whiteline?) does that count as rude...? Only asking as it hadn't occurred to me that it might be.
Last time a mechanic told me i needed a battery he quoted me $750 for it. I picked one up myself for $280. I've also been charged $300 for spark plugs that weren't even changed by a dealer.
I don't quite agree with what you two just said. When car guys like me get ripped off by a bad mechanic who only wants maximum profit, then you have to keep an eye on their work.
I absolutely love that this video was done. It's important to know these things to ensure smooth sailing when engaging the services of a mechanic.
However, being a female, I have had too many mechanics try to bamboozle me and con me because they assume I don't know anything about cars. Even to the point of replacing parts that don't need replacing without my permission. This kind of thing is unfortunately too common and make it extremely difficult to trust mechanics.
Can we get a video on what to look out for regarding this sticky subject?? I know there a good mechanics out there but let's not be blind to the reality either.
Another great video !!!
Just a quick question, what are the chances you tell a dealer your car issue only to be told there's no error code we can't test it out or confirm it. 😢 ( car going on limp mode).
Mechanics are woefully underpaid. 3 or 4 year trade and i think the award is around 27 an hour.
lol then I'd love to know where the cost of labour they charge is going.
Have a think about it. You're not just paying for labour. You're paying for the rent on the shop, tools, consumables, electricity, an office... The list goes on and on.@@andrewg2618
Mechanics and workshops have cost me over $30k on the last 6 years. I can’t find a decent one in Brisbane??
I lease so it's not my problem. I photograph and video it before and after. Then check the fluid levels myself.
Every vehicle I own I look after myself. I pre-MOT because I am qualified to do so and nothing but the MOT gets touched by a garage without my say so.
I have changed my own tyres in the past with a bead breaker, tyre changing and balancing machine.
I don't know why I am commenting actually.
Buy all the manuals and get trained with City & Guilds, IMI and EAL.
I do like this one - seems like almost all of it is soooo basic and yet, I've seen for myself some of these happen when MY car is at the shop. What is the next one? I'd love one where you just let loose all that frustration built up by the customers as well. :D Gonna be a fun (albeit a VERY controversial) one for sure! :D
I was actually thinking to myself today if this would be the subject for today's video or not lol 😂.
One thing that you guys forgot to add is not too get up in arms at your mechanic if they have to reschedule your service as tools and equipment can break and they are people who can get sick and it's not like they plan for these things to happen.
Brilliant video guys and a good way to wind up a cruisey birthday lol.
Keep up the good work guys and I look forward to Friday's video as always 👍.
I agree with all points other than 2:, First point- mechanics shouldn't listen to your suggestions (diagnostics): The swivel hubs on my landcruiser were leaking, Mechanic No1 rebuild the hubs which didn't resolve the issue. The car went back to him 3 or 4 times and apparently he repeated the rebuild on at least 1 occasion and other magical things on the other occasions. End result was the hubs kept leaking and I ceased my relationship with his business (I didn't pay for labour on the subsequent work). I eventually took the car to a "4wd specialist" (Withholding name until court case) and explained the history whilst adding that the only plausible root cause could be the diff housing. Assurance was provided that he would identify the and resolve the issue but of course he rebuild the hubs and the hubs kept leaking. Vehicle returned and mechanic magic was used to resolve the issue. Of course the hubs kept leaking. Vehicle returned again issue diagnosed as a blocked diff breather hose, I knew the explanation wasn't impossible because as I had added a diff breather years ago which was located below the bonnet near the firewall + the mechanic had apparently checked the breather prior to rebuilding the hubs and I had not driven in any conditions since that time which could have resulted in a blockage. There was no point arguing the case with someone who was clearly dishonest. Let me not forget to also mention that after the first repair at mechanic No2, my 4wd engagement dashboard light stopped functioning (they had performed work on the part in which the sensor was located) and the serpentine belt which they replaced disintegrated due to a worn bearing which should have been identified when replacing the belt . Finally I took the car to 360 Gearboxes and diffs who diagnosed the issues: leaking hubs due to pitted knuckles on the diff housing and 4wd light not working due to sensor cable being disconnected. Hubs have not leaked since a new diff housing was fitted. I can live with the regret of going to mechanic No1 but mechanic No2 will be receiving a free publicity campaign (unless a payout includes a non disclosure agreement). Standard mechanic worskhps are equivalent to a GP doctor clinic and I will never take my vehicle to them for specialist tasks which also includes air conditioning (e.g. morons who regas the system, charge you for labour and the gas and expect you to return for them to fix the actual issue once the gas has leaked out and charge you for the gas again - Air con/Cooling specialists don't operate that way). @ReDriven, if you've lasted this long reading my comment I'd like to take the opportunity to thank you for your content and to all others thanks for reading my rant. Cheers
These are all really good tips; but it puts lots of trust in the mechanics. Sadly there are many mechanics out there who tries to scam their customers with fake faults to make more money. So unless I have a certified specialist for my car near me, I’ll trust my diagnosis more than the shop trying to make money.
> do you show up on time to see your lawyer?
Hahahahahahahaha
No really.
“Mate, you know your matter is on this morning, and the magistrate will revoke your bail if you’re not here?”
“Aw, shit, what?”
Came here expecting some actual mechanical/servicing advice to help look after our cars, but instead get a whole lot of gripes about the profession. Whilst I think the gripes you raise are fair, this isn't the first video you guys have posted where I've felt mislead by the title. If you actually did do a video relating to car care and servicing, I'd happily watch that. It's always good to see if what we are currently doing to care for our cars is optimal, or if there are some other tips we should implement.
If the video was titled "Biggest mistakes when servicing your own car" or even "Biggest mistakes made when owning a car", I'd totally agree Nathan but we were trying to communicate the biggest mistakes people make when they go to a mechanic, I feel that's exactly what we delivered and what the title suggests.
We will be producing videos offering advice and tips on servicing and maintenance but they'll happen in good time. Our list of "to do" videos is extensive but we'll get there.
We genuinely appreciate your feedback and thank you for taking the time out to watch and comment. - AK
Last time I took my car to a workshop they used it as a lunch car/parts vehicle/ cruise car/ etc so where are these good mechanics 🤨
Great vid! But my mechanic allows me to buy my own parts in. If it doesnt work or doesnt fit, obviously its on me
Ok boys a question for you....if I take my car to a mechanic to get my strut tops replaced.....but they couldn't find the part, yet wants to charge me for the time it took to LOOK ONLINE FOR THE PART. And, to add to the BS, it's a strut mount for a FALCON. "Oh parts are hard to get on 20 year old cars." No, they made 500,000 of the things. If that was the case, how do people restore cars????
The one that pisses me off is when you change a tyre and they come back a month later with a failed fuel pump and say "It was fine before you worked on it." and expect you to fix it for free. 🙄🇦🇺
Great video. Points so well made. It's tragic many of the stupidity of the drivers/car owners are so universal. Cheers mates.
I disagree about bringing your own parts. What if you bought parts ages ago and they’ll just go to waste if you don’t use them on your car? No need to get shitty with a customer just cause they brought their own oil or whatever it is
Locking wheel nut tools not being where they should be drives me crazy
I usually like your content but this ain’t it.
Yeah, I agree. Just not warranted. Yes, people can be dickheads....but maybe...just maybe if a mechanic is coming across so many dickheads....maybe they're the common denominator????
Lets be honest I have yet to meet an honest mechanic unfortunately most are not good people
What would I do when spending 3k without fixing a "EGR problem" and the mechanic cannot even tell the reason?
I’ll be honest, I did raise my eyebrow a bit towards the end of the video, in regards to the driver bringing in their own parts for installation… I understand and empathize that a portion of the mechanic’s revenue is from purchasing the part and installing it. But I feel like the owner of the vehicle should have the final say on that matter? Like I should be able to decide if I want OEM or aftermarket parts to go in *my* car. By all means, as the professional, offer your advice, and be adamant about it. But at the end of the day, you’re getting paid for your time and effort and you won’t be one driving the car after the install. Maybe I’m selfish, I don’t know? But I feel like if I buy a part for my vehicle, I shouldn’t expect my mechanic to get pissy about it? I whole-heartedly agree with everything else though! And I type this with the upmost respect, sorry for being an arrogant American, I guess! 😅
4:52 yeah, assuming females know nothing is the mechanics job. If you're a female customer, be extremely skeptical of any additional costs or upsells above what you initially visited for. If you need 2 new front tyres at $100 each , you probably don't need 4 new tyres at $180 each + brake rotors and pads... (Might be good idea for an alignment though)