Can Auto Mechanic = Great Service?

I have never liked taking my car to the mechanic. Who does? I always think I am going to get ripped off only to discover later that I didn't need what I just paid for. I must say I really like my mechanic. Why? Because I trust him.

A few years ago we moved from Ohio to Richmond, Virginia. I took my car to an auto shop across the street from where I work for the required state inspection. To make a long story short, I got a quote for $850 of work that needed to be done in order to pass inspection and was told I couldn't drive my inspection failed car or I could risk getting a sizable fine. I drove it anyway and found Richmond Imports in the same area. I told this mechanic (Marty) the long version of the story and said I just need a mechanic I can trust. He said I could trust him. After looking at my car, Marty told me some work needed to be done in order to pass but it was more like $200 to fix. He went through the list with me and I knew about everything he listed.

Eventually I started taking my car to Richmond Imports just for oil changes when a national oil change company forgot to tighten the drain plug. Oil spilled all over my garage. Richmond Imports has never failed me.

A recent great experience made me think about why I continue to take my car to Marty.

• Marty knows me by name (every time I call or walk in)
• Marty knows my cars (what was done last time and what they need)
• Richmond Imports' goals are the same as mine (keep me driving my car as long as possible)
• Marty never recommends more than I need (any recommendations for additional work is specific and clear)
• Marty provides me with options (I know how long he believes the part will last - Marty always lets me know exactly what each job will cost)
• Richmond Imports always over delivers (sets expectations but always over delivers - additional work is always less than the quote)
• Richmond Imports will do the extra work when necessary (if they find something while working on my car, Marty always calls to give me options - if the extra work is minor there is no charge)
  
• Because of all of this Marty has my trust (I believe everything he tells me because of the reputation he has built with me)

It must be fun to work at a place that is so honest and truly appreciates it's customers. Result is that I will be a life long customer. If you live in Richmond, consider this my full endorsement for Richmond Imports.