Dear Mike,
I’m a relatively new car owner and I’ve been advised by my friends to always have a licensed mechanic look at my vehicle once in a while. I’m not sure why they’re so insistent on it. Can you please explain to me the importance of having a licensed mechanic inspect my car?
Thank you for your advice,
Lorcan
Dear Lorcan,
I must say, I’m thrilled to hear that you’re taking your driving responsibilities seriously. As a self-proclaimed car enthusiast, I cannot stress enough the importance of taking care of your vehicle. You’ve already taken the first step by reaching out for advice, and I’m more than happy to share some of my insight with you.
Let’s start with your friends’ advice about having a licensed mechanic inspect your car. Let me ask you this: would you hire an unlicensed electrician to wire your home? Or a plumber who’s never actually fixed a leak before? I certainly hope not. The same idea goes for your car – leaving it in the hands of an unlicensed person is simply asking for trouble. Quick lube shops, for example, are notorious for not employing licensed technicians. They may be able to change your oil in a jiffy, but if they spot a bigger problem, you’re out of luck. That’s where licensed mechanics come in because they’re trained professionals who know your car inside and out.
But why should you bother having your car inspected? Well, for starters, your car is a machine that eventually wears down over time. Regular inspections allow you to identify problem areas before they spiral out of control, saving you both time and money in the long run. Additionally, an inspection gives you a comprehensive understanding of your car’s overall health and helps you plan for future repairs. It’s like going to the doctor for an annual check-up – your car needs the same kind of attention to keep it running smoothly.
Think about it this way, Lorcan, you wouldn’t put your life at risk by neglecting your health, would you? Similarly, your car’s health (and your safety on the road) should not be taken for granted. A licensed mechanic knows what problems to look for and can offer suggestions on how to fix them. They can spot issues with your brakes, suspension, and tires that a quick lube shop wouldn’t even think to check.
Now, I know some of you out there may be thinking, “But Mike, isn’t getting my car inspected expensive?” Not necessarily. A licensed mechanic can give you a basic inspection that won’t break the bank. Plus, if you catch a problem early on, you’re more likely to save money on the repair itself.
The bottom line here, Lorcan, is that regular inspections are critical to the health of your car. Sure, it’s a bit of an inconvenience, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Plus, if you find a licensed mechanic who is as passionate about cars as I am, you may even have a bit of fun during the inspection! I’ve been known to get carried away telling stories about the cars I’ve fixed over the years.
I hope this has been helpful, Lorcan. Remember, if you love your car, it will love you back – and there’s no better way to show that love than by taking good care of it!
Sincerely,
Mike, Founder of Urban Automotive