Fraudulent practices in auto repair are alarmingly prevalent, with surveys revealing that a significant number of individuals have encountered efforts to market unnecessary services. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that many drivers are unfamiliar with fundamental vehicle maintenance and repair techniques, often placing them at the mercy of mechanics’ recommendations.

However, it’s entirely possible to circumvent many of these common scams without needing to be a trained mechanic. Follow a few straightforward tips to safeguard yourself.

Familiarize Yourself with Your Vehicle’s Manual

One of the best steps to prevent falling prey to deceitful mechanics is to review the owner’s manual that accompanied your vehicle. This document outlines the maintenance schedule designed for your car, indicating when to change filters and fluids. Being aware of this timeline can help you recognize when a mechanic claims that you need an unnecessary “fluid flush.” For instance, many modern vehicles utilize a “lifetime” transmission fluid that may not even require replacement until a significant mileage is reached.

Document the Condition of Your Vehicle

Before visiting a mechanic, it’s wise to take some photographs—both interior and exterior, including the engine compartment. Such documentation serves to prove the vehicle’s condition prior to service, which can be crucial should you find new damage after the work is done. Additionally, these images enable you to confirm whether parts were truly replaced as stated (and ensure that nothing was swapped out without consent, such as outright replacing a new battery with an old one). Moreover, this photographic evidence serves as a prompt to check critical components like oil caps and battery connections, ensuring that no maintenance steps were overlooked.

Replace Filters Beforehand

If you possess basic mechanical skills, a practical method for spotting deceitful mechanics is to replace your air and oil filters prior to service—or even mark them discreetly with a pen. This establishes a defense against one of the most common tricks used by some mechanics: presenting a dirty air filter and insisting on an immediate replacement. Knowing your filters are in good condition enables you to immediately identify an attempt at manipulation.

Request the Old Parts Back

Finally, when told that an expensive component requires replacement, a straightforward approach to protect yourself is to ask for the old part back (in many jurisdictions, you have a legal right to do so). This gives you the opportunity to assess its condition firsthand, adding a layer of security against unscrupulous mechanics who might charge for parts they have not actually replaced. Even if you’re not knowledgeable about specific parts, merely requesting the old components signals to the mechanic that you’re engaged and observant.