Auto mechanic scams are widespread in Nigeria. At least, at one point, a car owner might have experienced one or know someone who has. Unfortunately, not many people know how to avoid falling victim to mechanic scams.
The standard patterns used by auto mechanics are exorbitant bills and prices, wrong diagnoses, and using fake products to fix your car. Some Nigerians also complain of being charged to pay for already functioning car devices. Most mechanics use several tactics, but if you don’t know, you can’t beat them at their game. In this article, we break down how to avoid getting scammed by auto mechanics. So, if you’ve ever been scammed, this is for you.
Tips To Avoid Getting Scammed By Auto Mechanics
Auto mechanic and auto repair shop scams in Nigeria have become a way of life. It has been normalized that most people can’t question it. For most people, the excuse is usually not knowing car repair products. But, you don’t necessarily need to know everything about cars to avoid scams.
Here are helpful tips to follow;
- Find A Trusted Auto Repair Mechanic/Shop: It’s essential to have an auto repair mechanic/shop you can trust. There are perks to having a personal auto mechanic, they get to know you and your vehicle, and you relax your mind. To find them, ask people for recommendations. Also, read online reviews to find reliable mechanics.
- Gather Information About Your Car’s Fault Before Going: For the best service from Nigerian auto mechanics, make observations and note down symptoms before visiting their shop. Once you have adequate information on what is wrong with your car, it’s difficult for the mechanic to offer a wrong diagnosis.
- Voice Your Complains: Speak out if you feel they are making wrong suggestions. If you are dealing with a reputable auto repair shop, notify them that you would share your experiences online. No Nigerian wants their business reputation ruined.
- Be Careful Before Trusting Your Vehicle To Anyone: Don’t immediately trust a mechanic or repair shop. Most auto mechanics are not familiar with some cars. Before you trust anyone to repair your car, let them explain the basics about your car.
- Get Insurance: Having car insurance in Nigeria will shield you from a lot. Most car insurance companies have their in-house designated auto mechanics. When you have their insurance, you’ll worry less about auto repair scams.
- Get Auto Quoting In Writing: A reputable auto mechanic will give you a written quote. Avoid word-of-mouth quotes. It would help to note all the expenses repairing your car would incur. If there might be unforeseen costs, they should indicate them in the quoting.
Where Can I Find Auto Mechanic Reviews In Nigeria?
Interestingly, most Nigerians don’t know they can find reviews of auto mechanics and repair shops. Thankfully, there’s the internet, and there are many ways/places to find reviews.
- Check Online Review Sites: Several auto mechanics review sites in Nigeria. If you’re staying in cities like Lagos, visit sites like Carmart.ng to read about the best auto repair shops in Lagos.
- Search Social Media Feeds: There’s no limit to what you can find on social media. Use social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Nairaland to find helpful reviews. You can also ask for recommendations on your social media page.
- Listen To Nigerian Podcasts: Several podcasts in Nigeria focus on the Nigerian experience. They talk about various issues. On some of them, you’ll read about automobile experiences in Nigeria. On podcasts like “I Said What I Said,” they invite auto mechanic experts to educate listeners.
- Blogs: Several blogs talk about auto mechanics and auto repair shops in Nigeria. Through them, you’ll find relevant information.
- Word-Of-The-Mouth Recommendations: No review beats word-of-mouth reviews. You can easily find good mechanics and repair shops through recommendations from people you know.
Conclusion
Auto mechanic and repair shop scams are rampant in Nigeria but following these tips will save you a lot of stress, money, and damage.