FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you work on [insert auto manufacturer]?
A: Absolutely. I work on all makes, all models. If it's a motor vehicle, I work on it. It doesn't take special knowledge to work on Hondas, Toyotas, Lexus, GM, Ford, etc. The dealer would like to make you think so, but it's how they get you to come back to them.
Q: How do you charge labor?
I use Mitchell Labor Guides to estimate repair service times. This is an industry-wide standard that estimates the average time it takes an average mechanic to perform repair services. If you are quoted 2 hours in the estimate and it takes 3 hours, you will still only be charged for 2 hours.
Q: I can get someone else to do that for less? Can you give me a discount?
A: If you're able to find another shop that can do the work for less, please let me know and I am willing to try to price match.
Q: Do I need to go to the dealership to keep my warranty?
A: Not at all. The dealership has done a great job at making people believe this myth. As long as you keep records of your maintenance, the dealer cannot deny or void your warranty. In addition, the warranty is not an all or nothing contract. A failure to change your oil on a regular interval will only void the warranty related to the oil and it needs to be shown that not changing your oil caused the failure. A window that won't roll down can't be denied for lack of oil changes.
Q: Do you install customer supplied parts?
A: I only install parts purchased by Bruce The Mechanic, this is for warranty, insurance, liability and logistical reasons. If there happens to be a problem down the line, there won't be any confusion as to where the failure occurred, whether it was the part or the installation, either way, Bruce The Mechanic would warranty the repair for 12 months or 12,000 miles.
Q: Do you accept credit cards?
A: I accept cash, check and credit/debit cards, even ApplePay, AndroidPay. Please make checks payable to Bruce the Mechanic.
Q: I’ve had shops charge me for parts they installed that didn’t solve my problem, how does Bruce The Mechanic handle this situation?
A: Your trust is very important, it is the main reason I'm in business. When I suggest repairs, I fully believe they will fix the problem. If I'm wrong, I typically do not charge labor for that service.
Q: Why did the previous shop say I needed these services urgently and you're telling me that I don't?
A: I'm what people call an honest mechanic. It's like finding a unicorn. The service writer is in the business to make money for the dealer. He's hoping you'll give in to the pressure and have the service done. To be honest, I'm in business to make money too, but not at the expense of my integrity. I will recommend what needs to be done based on safety and common sense. If it makes sense to put off repairs for 6 months, I'll let you know.
Q: Should I get fuel injection treatment?
A: No. It's a gimmick. The fuel injection treatment will only help if you have a fuel related problem and even then, it's not guaranteed to do anything.
Q: When should I get my timing belt changed?
A: When the manufacturer recommends changing it. Some are at 60k, 90k and some at 105k miles. If you've gone over the recommended mileage, you're on borrowed time. When the timing belt breaks, it can cause damage to the engine that could double the repair cost or more.
Q: How much does it cost to fix my car?
A: Each car is different and parts don't all cost the same. I will need your car's information to accurately quote the repair. Most times, if you know what you need, I can get you a quote within a couple hours.
Q: Do you work on Saturdays?
A: I try not to. On Saturday, I like to go and volunteer my time with Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity. Also, if I have work that I couldn't finish during the week, Saturday is a day that I can use to catch up, if needed.
Q: My car won't start, should I have it towed to your garage?
A: Yes, I am extremely busy and am trying to maximize my time. Having vehicles here at the shop helps me to dedicate the most time that I can to helping as many customers as I can.
Q: Your invoice does not show sales tax, are you cheating the government?
A: No, when I purchase parts, I pay tax to my suppliers. When I quote services, I quote them with parts and labor included in one price. Since I pay the tax and I quote as a service, not as labor and parts separately, sales tax is not shown as it's already accounted for.