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Frequently Asked Questions- Mechanic On Duty (MOD)
Why is the advice I’m getting from MOD any better than what I’m being told by my neighborhood service repair facility or that of a new car dealership?
The purpose in establishing MOD was not to be better than any particular service repair option that is currently available to motorists. The primary purpose was to give the average motorist an independent resource with auto repair experience and knowledge that would act as the Motorist’s Advocate. Our experience and knowledge is particularly valuable in addressing three risks common to all auto repairs: is the vehicle being properly diagnosed; does the repair facility’s estimated cost to repair the vehicle represent a fair price; and is your vehicle at the right type of facility given the nature of the repair.My principle concern when looking for a mechanic (repair facility) is whether or not the mechanic is honest and trustworthy. I am afraid that by focusing in on price alone I will be making a big mistake. What is your response to that?
You’re right, if you focus on price alone. But, MOD is not suggesting that at all. Price is just one of three important considerations to us. However, we would also suggest to you that the pricing of any auto repair should not be a subjective matter. MOD believes that the accuracy and fairness of repair pricing should serve as a barometer of the repair facility’s honesty and trustworthiness.Are you promising me that I will always save money on my auto repairs?
No, and no one should make that promise to you. What we are promising you though is that all your auto repair bills will receive the scrutiny of a service repair professional who knows exactly what parts sourcing and pricing alternatives are available, who knows exactly the amount of labor time that nationally recognized industry sources assign to any given repair and who has a working knowledge of hourly labor rates throughout the country. More often than not, this knowledge will translate into savings.What do I do if the written estimate from the repair facility calls for the work to done for $525.00 and MOD tells me that a fair price should be $375.00?
First, we would like to respond to this question by pointing out that you should see these price differences for what they are. If you can achieve a cost savings of $150.00, that is almost 30% off of the repair facility’s estimate or 40% higher than what the actual cost should be. Now having made this point, let’s say that in this instance the repair facility was quoting the repair by pricing in an OEM part (new part from the car manufacturer), while the MOD quote was with an aftermarket new part. The difference in cost between the two parts accounted for the total difference in pricing. Incidentally, both parts come with a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty. Our experience here is that sometimes it’s as simple as telling the repair facility that there is an alternative to the OEM new part. When that’s the case your savings are within easy reach.What do I do if the repair facility is not so cooperative?
First of all, as a member of MOD, one of our professionals will be more than happy to speak with a representative of the service repair facility on your behalf. If this attempt to arrive at a fair price is unsuccessful, our professional staff will approach service repair facilities within the same zip code as the one where you originally brought your vehicle. Our goal is to provide you with two alternative repair facilities that agree to undertake the repair at a price reflective of the fair price that MOD has already shared with you. As the owner of the vehicle, you must select the repair facility at which your vehicle is to be repaired. MOD does not generate any income from the service repair industry for this service. Our commitment is to our members.
Why does MOD emphasize the need to obtain a written estimate?
First off, most states have enacted laws to protect consumers when it comes to auto repairs and almost all such laws make a written estimate mandatory or require that the consumer waive his or her right in writing. Generally speaking, a written estimate should provide information along the following lines: i)- reason for repair/cause of failure; ii)- a breakdown of the cost to repair, including the part type and number, the part price, the number of hours to repair and the repair facility’s hourly labor rate (in some states any increase in price above the written estimate has to be approved verbally or in writing); and iii)- a written limited warranty specifying what is covered and for how long. If a service repair facility balks at providing a written estimate, this should serve as a warning to the motorist.Beyond pricing, very often repair issues are quite complicated. How can MOD be of assistance in those instances?
The consultative process that is free with your membership is meant to be of assistance in such instances. The MOD professional that communicates with you is prepared to think through your auto repair as if it were that professional’s own vehicle that was in need of repair. Obviously, talking with you about your vehicle is not the same as physically inspecting or diagnosing your vehicle, but the technical expertise that a MOD professional can bring to such a conversation will go far beyond the average member’s knowledge of auto repairs. In fact, whenever you ask us, we will gladly have a MOD Member Services Representative speak with the mechanic at your service repair facility.What types of experience and training do the MOD professionals have?
The nucleus of MOD’s professional team has spent many years working as claims adjusters for auto warranty companies. Thousands and thousands of auto repairs and daily interaction with the service repair industry provide these professionals with a unique mix of experience and knowledge. All members of our team with actual mechanical backgrounds have held specific ASE certifications in a variety of specialized areas. This expertise is supplemented by professionals who have worked as service writers, parts managers or in parts supply.Does MOD generate any revenue from service repair industry sources?
MOD is not sponsored, nor does MOD generate any revenue from service repair industry sources. Our goal is be the Motorist’s Advocate by serving the needs of our members.Does MOD offer a roadside assistance program?
MOD contracts with a nationally recognized company to provide 24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance for our members. We see this as a supplement to our core business and as such we price this program at only $49.95 for our annual members. Any of our New Member Representatives can help you with enrollment in this program.Is joining MOD really necessary if my vehicle is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty or an extended service plan?
Absolutely, and for a couple of reasons. First, not all warranties or extended service plans live up to the motorist’s expectations in terms of the types of repairs that are covered. Therefore, you might be confronted with an unexpected non-reimbursable auto repair. Second, you may have an auto repair that should be covered by your warranty and despite this, your claim has been declined. In both instances the services provided by MOD can be of great assistance. Also, take a good look at the warranty covering your vehicle and ask yourself if it would be useful to have The Motorist’s Advocate on your side when speaking with a warranty company representative.
