How To Steer Clear Of Car Repair Ripoffs!

February 20, 2018

We know it can be tricky or even intimidating going to an auto repair shop! We know there are repair facilities that may not have their customers best interests in mind. All too often we meet customers for the first time that have experienced some form of this in the past. We are "breaking the cycle" here at Team Ryan Automotive! Here are a few quick tips that may help you avoid spending money where you may not need to.

NEVER AGREE TO PURCHASE ANYTHING THAT YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND.

This doesn't mean that you need to have a degree in car speak, but it does mean that you should feel confident in asking a shop for a thorough explanation for WHY it is necessary. An HONEST shop will will offer to show you pictures or walk you out to your vehicle and explain the situation completely to ensure you are empowered and informed.

DON'T PAY FOR A SHOPS LEARNING CURVE!

More times than you might hope for, mechanics will sell you parts hoping that it will fix the problem. This isn't good for your wallet! "Beware of guys who say 'I know the problem and you need X' without saying how they came to that conclusion. Make sure that the shop you go to employs ASE certified technicians and they are willing to discuss with you ahead of time what their diagnostic process is. Doing these things will help you feel comfortable and be confident that your car will be fixed right the first time.

FLUID FLUSHES AT THE APPROPRIATE INTERVALS.

If you are being recommended a fluid exchange, ask them for details on why! If they can provide you with a reasonable explanation like factory service recommendations, the current condition of the fluid or a legitimate sounding reason then you can proceed. Otherwise, beware!

When in doubt, get a second opinion. At Team Ryan Automotive we understand that trust is earned! Once you've found us, you won't need to worry! We are always happy to explain recommendations in detail and prioritize according to safety. Our goal is to educate and empower our customers to make the best decision for their vehicle and their budget.

Check out more from AARP on how to avoid car repair ripoffs.

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Top 5 Road Trip Tips to Prevent Breakdowns This Summer

By Dan Ryan • May 9, 2025

Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.