You would not buy gas from a guy selling it in buckets on the side of the street, so why would you take your vehicle to an uncertified mechanic? Going to a friend or family member who thinks they know what they are doing could be a costly mistake.

Professionals should exclusively handle car repairs and maintenance. Not only is your vehicle a financial asset, but also its value extends to other areas of your life. Your car should be reliable to:

• Get you to and from work, school, appointments, and other locations.
• Keep you and your passengers safe with functional seatbelts and other safety features.
• Operate efficiently, such as not guzzling gas or wearing tires downs.

Improper maintenance and repairs can have costly results. For example, brakes incorrectly installed could lead to an accident or damage to the vehicle.

A certified mechanic will make sure your car is safe to use. A mechanic receives the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification for completing training and meeting the ASE Certified Master Technician requirements.

ASE Certified Master Technicians have a minimum of two years of auto repair experience. They must take bi-annual examinations to keep their certification.

They can work on every part and system of your vehicle. ASE Certified Master Technicians with advanced training can work on buses, truck equipment, and engine mechanisms.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) also issues certifications to approved repair shops. Repair services completed at AAA-approved auto repair facilities come with a 24-month or 24,000-mile guarantee.

ASE certification and AAA approval are just two questions you should be asking your mechanic. Find out more on the next slide.