Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What if I can’t get there before you close?
A. It is no problem at all. We offer a text-to-pay service for payment and have key pick up boxes so that pick up can be performed before or after hours. You will need to make arrangements with the office staff during business hours in order to use these features.
Q. How can I make a payment without being there in person?
A. Our text-to-pay system is the easiest way to pay without being here on the premises. Text-to-pay is safe, secure, and easy. Ask our office staff to send you a text to pay link. Once the link arrives to your email or cell phone, just follow the link and fill in your payment details.
Q. What can I expect when I bring my vehicle to 103 Auto Repair?
A. You can expect honesty, integrity, and friendly staff. We have included many amenities over the years to aid in a seamless repair experience, including early bird drop off, a variety of ways to communicate with us, high quality repairs, and peace of mind that repairs are covered under our warranty.
Q. How will you get in touch with me while my vehicle is at your shop?
A. We are able to contact you by whatever method is easiest for you – the most popular choices are text, phone call, email, or Facebook Messenger. We are also happy to connect with you through Google or our Contact Us form on our website.
Q. Does your shop specialize in specific makes/models?
A. We don’t specialize in any particular vehicle, but we do offer services on most makes and models, including BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Mercedes, Honda, Toyota, Subaru, Chevy, GM, Chrysler, Dodge, and Ford. Our services aren’t limited to these makes/models, but they are the most common vehicles through our shop.
Q. Does your shop specialize in a specific type of repairs?
A. We don’t specialize in a specific type of repairs, but we perform general maintenance and repairs on most makes and models listed above. Repairs include (but are not limited to) brakes, tires, alignments, steering and suspension repairs, AC Diagnosis and repair, computer-aided diagnosis and repair, mileage-based services, drivetrain diagnosis and repairs, and routine repairs.
Q. Are there any services or vehicles that you don’t work on?
A. We do not offer restoration or resto-mod services, body work or body/collision repairs, specialty services such as tuning, lift kit installs, lowering kits, or aftermarket upgrades. We also do not offer services on Diesel vehicles, Heavy Duty Trucks, buses, plow trucks/sanders. We have very limited availability for services such as engine or transmission replacements. It is typical for us to decline larger repairs due to shop capacity. This is a general rule of thumb – if you aren’t sure, feel free to ask!
Q. Do you work on Antique and Classic vehicles?
A. The short answer to this is no… but feel free to ask anyway. There are certain types of vehicles that we hold dear to our hearts and while we may not be able to service them primarily, it always brings a sense of joy to be able to repair an older vehicle.
Q. Are your technicians certified?
A. Our entire staff holds a variety of different certifications, including ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certifications, Technical Training Certifications, Inspection Certifications, and Air Conditioning Certifications. We are not certified in any specific vehicle brands as only dealerships can certify their staff through their brand.
Q. How close are your estimates to the actual cost of the service?
A. We build our estimates so that they are as close to exact as possible – that being said, they are estimates based on visual inspections and may be subject to change depending on what is found once the job begins. Typically, if an estimate does run over our initial quote, you can expect it to stay within 10%-15% above the original quoted price. In the event that the repairs will exceed the original approved amount, our office staff will contact you for authorization as soon as possible. We don’t like surprises any more than you do!
Q. Will you call me with an estimate prior to performing repairs?
A. Yes! Our commitment to you is to perform a thorough vehicle inspection, document your concerns, provide an estimate before work begins, and only proceed with work once you have authorized the repairs. You can rest easy knowing that you will be kept up to date throughout the repair process.
Q. Will my vehicle be ready the same day that I drop it off?
A. We strive to have a maximum turnaround time of 24 hours from the time the vehicle is dropped off. Within that 24 hours, you can expect that we will inspect your vehicle, provide you with a Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and estimate, and also contact you for authorization of repairs. The 24-hour turnaround time is subject to parts availability and how fast we are able to communicate with you. Making sure that you are available to speak with us is a key part of process. Once we have obtained your approval for repairs, parts will be ordered. In some circumstances (such as European vehicles, specialty parts, or dealer ordered items) parts may be delayed. In that instance, we will provide you with an estimated date of completion at the time of authorization.
Q. Is there a charge to determine what the problem is with my vehicle?
A. Yes, you can expect a fee for determining the problem with your vehicle. In order for us to properly confirm what it is that we are attempting to resolve, perform the necessary test sequences, and provide you with an estimate, we do have to charge a fee to cover our time. Typically, this fee ranges from $75-$350 depending on what problem you are experiencing. We will always do our best to provide you with an up-front cost to have your vehicle inspected based off of the symptoms that you provide.
Q. Is my car worth repairing?
A. We use a series of questions to help you determine if you should repair your current vehicle or look for another one. Are you financially able to afford a different vehicle? Will the cost of repairs exceed the amount that you could sell the vehicle for? Are you emotionally attached to the vehicle? How much money have you already had to invest in it? If you totaled up all of your repair bills for the past 12 months and divided it by 12, does that amount equal more or less than a car payment would be? We find that there is no cut and dry answer as to if your vehicle is worth it as it depends so greatly on your situation, attachment, and commitment to keeping the vehicle. There are certain circumstances where we may decline to repair a vehicle in the event that repairs will outweigh the value of the vehicle, if the vehicle is dangerous to drive due to non-repairable rust, or if we see evidence that the vehicle will not be a wise financial investment. We can only provide you with the facts and help to educate you – the final choice is always yours!
Q. What is your warranty?
A. Our warranty is valid for two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. We use OE Quality parts or better, and strive to make our warranty experience as stress-free as possible. We are here to help you in the event that there is an issue with our repairs or services. We are always learning, growing, and listening to client feedback. If you have had a visit that did not meet your expectations, please contact jenni@route103auto.com or call 802-875-8103 so that we can make it right. You are our first priority!