Don't rely solely on the Better Business Bureau or other consumer agencies to find out if a shop is honest (or qualified.) A dishonest shop knows that if he gets caught cheating, he had better make a settlement immediately if he wants to conintue cheating. Sound a little strange? Let me explain.

99% of the people who get cheated aren't even aware of it. The smart cheater knows that. He knows the odds are in his favor. If he's caught, he'll return the money or settle the complaint immediately; therefore no unsettled complaint on file. Let's carry it a step further. 99% of the people who think they've been cheated, really weren't. There is a big difference between fraud and incompetency.

Fraud is someone who willfully cheats or deceives another. Incompetence, however, is one who is lacking in ability or skill. Totally different, right? Not to most consumers. They're aware of only one thing, they didn't get what they paid for. There is a big difference between fraud and incompetence.

Lastly, don't try to buy auto repair over the phone. You can end up buying something you don't need. No one can accurately diagnose a problem over the phone.