Comparing garage quotes: good practice

Before having your car repaired, comparing several quotes helps you check prices and choose a garage with your eyes open. Here is good practice for requesting and comparing quotes.

Request several quotes

Present the same requirement (diagnostic, specific repair) to several garages (at least 2–3): independents, chains, dealer. Give model, mileage and symptoms (or fault code if you have it). A written, itemised quote (parts, labour, VAT) lets you compare and avoid surprises.

Check quote content

Parts: brand (OEM, equivalent), reference, unit price. Labour: time allowed, hourly rate. Work: diagnostic, removal/refit, bleed, etc. A vague quote (“brake package” with no detail) can hide extras. Ask if the quote is fixed or estimate; if more work is found during repair, the garage should tell you before adding it.

Price and quality

The cheapest is not always best: check the garage’s reputation (reviews, word of mouth), warranties (parts, labour) and whether OEM or equivalent quality parts are offered. A dealer is often more expensive but may be needed for some repairs (warranty, software).

Free quote

In many countries, a quote for repair is free. You are not obliged to have the work done by the garage that gave the quote. My Auto Check-up helps you gather the info (model, symptoms, past repairs) to prepare your quote requests.