Modern cars, light trucks, and sport-utility vehicles come with complex technology such as digital dashboards, oxygen sensors, electronic computers, unibody construction, and more. They run better, longer, and more efficiently than models of years past. However, they eventually need to be replaced.

Before taking your vehicle in for repairs or service, do your homework so you receive the best possible service.

  • Read the owner's manual to learn about the vehicle's systems and components.
  • Follow the recommended service schedules.
  • Keep a log of all repairs and service.
  • Do not ignore any warning signals your car may give you.
  • Carry a written list of the symptoms that you can give your mechanic.
  • Resist the temptation to suggest a specific course of repair. Allow our experienced technicians to diagnose and recommend a remedy.
  • It's important to note when the problem occurs. Is it constant or periodic? Does it occur when the vehicle is cold or after the engine has warmed up? Does it happen at all speeds? Only under acceleration? During braking? When shifting?

Check for the following common vehicle maintenance issues on a regular basis:
  • Unusual sounds, odors, drips, leaks, smoke, warning lights, gauge readings.
  • Changes in acceleration, engine performance, gas mileage, fluid levels.
  • Worn tires, belts, hoses.
  • Problems in handling, braking, steering, and vibrations.
  • When did the problem first start?

How to manage your service experience:
  • Ask as many questions as needed to fully understand your repair. Ask for an explanation in laymans terms if necessary.
  • Don't rush the technicians. You may be called and apprised of the problem, course of action, and cost before work begins.
  • Before you leave, be sure you understand shop policies regarding labor rates, guarantees, and acceptable methods of payment.
  • Make sure the shop has your contact information readily available, so you can be reached as soon as possible.

Car Warranty Scams Questions and Answers

Q: Is there a car warranty scam?
A: Yes, there are car warranty scams that try to take advantage of unsuspecting vehicle owners. You may have received calls from scammers that start with automated or pre-recorded prompts to enter basic information and stay on the line. Once the call begins, the scammer pretends to be an auto manufacturer or insurer telling you that your auto warranty or car insurance is about to expire. Then they ask you to provide personal information, which will later be used to defraud you. Sometimes the caller will have actual information about your automobile.

Q: What do I do if I fell for a car warranty scam?
A: There is no way to get your personal information or money back, but you can reach out to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and file a complaint. You can contest any charges to your bank card through your bank. Consider using a credit monitoring service.

Q: Who is behind the auto warranty scam calls?
A: Regulators allege the fake auto warranty calls, which scam customers out of financial and personal information, originate from a ring run by Roy Cox Jr., Aaron Michael Jones and Sumco Panama companies.

Q: How do you check if your car warranty or vehicle insurance has really expired?
A: If you are afraid your warranty or insurance may have really expired: first hang up with the potential scammer. Next, call your car dealer or insurer and inquire about your policy.

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ASE Master Technician
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What our clients are saying about us

We have established longterm and stable partnerships with various clients thanks to our excellence in solving their automotive needs!

If you want to give your car into honest and trustful hands, look no further! We recently moved from Europe and had bad luck buying a rusty car, which they found out during a thorough inspection and kept us updated about every step of the process. In the end, instead of talking us into (very) costly repairs, they suggested to sell it and gave us invaluable tips and recommendations. This will be my go-to shop in Portland now. Big shout-out to Brian and the entire team! quotes-image
, 06/30/2024
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I’ve been here twice. Both times I was dealing with Brian. And they are truly an amazing and compassionate auto shop. The first time I brought my car in was to get my alternator replaced, and it was the cheapest out of all the other auto shops in my area. So they aren’t out trying to charge outrageous prices. That was a pretty cut and dry experience, they fixed my car at a great price, and my alternator is still going strong. What really blew me away with this auto shop was the experience I had with them today. I brought my car in thinking that I had a leaking coolant hose which is usually a cheap fix but Brian ended up telling me that it was actually the entire coolant reservoir that needed to be replaced, making it $200 more expensive than what I thought I was going to be paying. The shop understood my situation and showed me complete compassion today that I couldn’t even believe. Totally saving my livelihood. Will recommend to others. 5/5quotes-image
, 05/16/2024
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