Finding a car mechanic shop near me that you can trust is easy when you live in the Piedmont area. Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville has been serving many of your neighbors for over 25 years. With a friendly smile, experienced technicians, and competitive pricing, we make taking care of your car simple.
The Breakdown Of An Auto Repair Bill
One issue many people have with any car mechanic shop near me is what they perceive to be high prices. While cars can be expensive to fix, most shops charge consumers fair prices. Unfortunately, many consumers equate low repair bills with good automobile service.
Yet, few people truly understand the circumstances influencing an auto repair bill. Let’s examine the two biggest parts of an auto repair bill: parts and labor.
Parts
Generally, when you need to replace a part, you can choose from 4 different types:
- Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
- Aftermarket parts
- Remanufactured parts OE (original equipment) parts rebuilt
- Salvaged/Used Parts
Customarily, OEM parts are those made by your automaker. Designed and engineered specifically for your vehicle, OEM parts fit your vehicle perfectly. Although the most expensive option, many OEM parts come with a warranty.
Aftermarket parts are those components manufactured by a company other than the automaker. Often, these parts fit multiple makes and models of cars. Sometimes, aftermarket parts are as good as or better than OEM parts at a less expensive price.
Another choice is a rebuilt original equipment (OE) component. Typically, the manufacturer has disassembled, cleaned, and replaced worn components on a remanufactured OE part. As the manufacturer uses less raw materials and energy, it’s a greener choice. Also, most manufacturers will offer a warranty on their remanufactured parts.
Finally, you can choose a salvaged or used part from a junked vehicle. Often, salvage yards use a grading system based on mileage to indicate the quality of the component.
Labor
Generally, a mechanic’s hourly rate ranges from $45 to $170 per hour. Yet, when most consumers view their bill, they don’t realize this fee covers many of the shop’s costs.
- Moreover, the difference in rates depends on several factors:
- Facility’s overhead costs (rent/mortgage, utilities, etc.)
- Skill level and certifications of technicians
- Business overhead (high-tech diagnostic tools, equipment, etc.)
- The vehicle’s make and model
Whether you decide to rent or own your shop, you need a place to store equipment and complete repairs. This fee can range from $1,500 to $15,000 per month based on the location of your shop.
In the automotive repair industry, ASE tests and other certifications certify automotive professionals in 52 general and 13 specialty areas. These certifications provide tangible proof of a mechanic’s level of expertise. Moreover, technicians must retest every 5 years. These tests range in price from $50-$100.
In addition, today’s vehicles are highly computerized. This move towards electronically controlled systems provides a more fuel-efficient system with fewer emissions. However, this also requires expensive diagnostic equipment to detect engine problems. Often, this equipment can run into thousands of dollars which also requires costly annual updates.
Finally, certain makes or models of cars are simply more expensive to fix. For example, generally luxury cars that originate from Germany are very costly to maintain. Often, this is due to the complexity of their engines, inner mechanisms, and specialty parts.
Some Of The Most Popular Services For Your Car
Usually, the most popular maintenance services for cars are routine chores you need to do regularly. These tasks will help to keep your vehicle running optimally:
- Oil and filter
- Windshield wiper and fluid
- Air and cabin filter
- Tires: alignment, rotation, and replacement
- Battery
- Brakes
- Coolant
Typically, when you keep up with regular maintenance services, you can avoid some of the more expensive repairs. Taking care of regular servicing extends the life of your parts by reducing wear and tear. For example, not changing your oil may cause your engine to run hot, causing damage.
Additionally, neglecting maintenance can affect your gas mileage. For instance, improperly inflated tires can cost you up to 11 cents per gallon on fuel.
FAQs To Help Find A Great Car Mechanic Shop Near Me
Modern cars are complicated pieces of machinery. Thus, you’ll want a repair shop that stays abreast of industry changes with ongoing training and certification. To help you learn more about us, we’ve answered a few commonly asked questions.
Do You Have A Loyalty Program?
Yes! You can earn loyalty points every time you make a purchase at Xpress Lube. It’s a snap to sign up. Simply fill out our online form. Or ask one of our associates next time you stop in.
Once you sign up, you’ll earn 1 point for every dollar you spend. Then, redeem your points for any of our services. Plus, we’ll send you special gifts, like a free car wash on your birthday.
What Type Of Regular Maintenance Is Necessary?
Typically, you’ll find a servicing schedule inside your owner’s manual telling you when to change vital components. Moreover, follow us on Facebook for great maintenance tips for your car and limited-time specials.
What Type Of Services Do You Offer?
As a full-service auto shop, our technicians can repair and maintain both foreign and domestic vehicles:
- Oil change
- A/C repair
- Transmissions
- Fuel systems
- Brakes
- NC state inspections
- Wheel rotation and alignment
- Cooling system flush and repair
- And more!
Moreover, we also have a modern car wash on site. Once you’ve taken care of the mechanics, you can take care of the exterior of your automobile as well.
We have affordable pricing, qualified mechanics, and friendly support staff. When you’re searching for a car mechanic shop near me, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.