You CAN find someone who will do the right thing by you, as long as you take the right steps.

I have had sole charge of the vehicles in my family for the past seven years, and I’ve done a pretty good job, if I do say so myself.

Until this year, that is. I used a new, affordable mechanic and they did bad things to my car, which had to be repaired later. Lesson learned, forever.

It’s easy to look after new cars. They are shiny, happy things and dealer services, while expensive, keep them humming along.

Then, things can turn. After around the six year mark, things will come up. Trying to care for our vehicles as well as raise three children and have time for things like sleeping and eating means I have had to become an expert on motor mechanics.

I searched far and wide to try and find a really good female mechanic and failed. I think the Australian Army took them all.

Just as an FYI, you should know that this post is sponsored by Australian Defence Force. But all opinions expressed by the author are 100% authentic and written in their own words. 

They have been actively recruiting women to join trades and work as mechanics and plumbers and even aircraft technicians, and we’re left to sort through what’s left.

Regardless, you can still find someone who will do the right thing by you as long as you take the right steps.

1. Ask for a recommendation.

Ask family and friends for recommendations for a good mechanic. Nothing is better than someone you know vouching for them. And you can mention that they’ve been recommended to you, which spreads the love all around. I’ve only ever used mechanics recommended to me by someone I trust and it really breaks the ice during that first encounter.

2. Make a list.

Create a short list of mechanics you are considering. You need to find the right fit. Meet them and make sure they are friendly, helpful and not at all condescending. This is your vehicle after all. You don’t need to be treated like an idiot. My mechanic explains things to me simply and keeps me constantly informed of what he is doing.

3. Choose convenience.

There’s no point deciding on a mechanic who lives ages away. The best choices location-wise are those near work or home. Or, you might consider a mobile mechanic. I’ve been using mobile mechanics for seven years with mixed results. Once again, it was a recommendation that got me a good one and now he’s like a part of the family.

4. Look for affordability.

Are their prices competitive? Do your research, just as you’d do for an insurance policy. Find out if their prices are fair and then once you’ve done your research, call back your first choice and ask them if they can do any better. You never know until you try. My mechanic charges less for servicing both cars at the same time.

5. Availability is everything.

Find a mechanic who can fit you in at a time that suits you. It also helps if they can drop you home. Most mechanics will do this these days, as long as you are local. Or you can go back to my mobile mechanic idea. You not only need a mechanic who is available for regular services but who can also see you in case of emergencies.

6. Don’t forget Roadside Assist.

Most car insurers have a roadside assist service. I let mine lapse at one stage and then broke down. It was a total nightmare. They wouldn’t have been able to do much but they would have at least towed my car to my mechanic for free, instead of the almost $200 I paid. Plus sometimes it is a simple fix, like say, a new battery, and you can give your mechanic a miss and get back on the road faster.

Have you had to do your own car repair? What expert tips can you share?

The Australian Defence Force has a host of diverse roles available for women who are looking for a rewarding, flexible and challenging career.

The Defence Force is currently recruiting for various trade roles. For further information of military training and careers in the Navy, Army or Air Force visit: defencejobs.gov.au or call 13 19 01.