Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Repairs – Answers From Northwest Automotive

Q: Do your services carry a warranty?

A: Yes. Our minimum warranty is for one year or 12,000 miles. Some of our services offer warranties of two years, three years, or longer. Our warranty covers parts, labor and towing. There is no fine print and no BS. We'll take care of you because we want to keep you as a customer.

Q: Can your shop do the services that will keep my factory warranty in force?

A: Yes. Your scheduled services do not have to be done at a dealership. Our parts and services will satisfy the warranty requirements and are usually a lot less expensive; typically a 20 to 30 percent savings! If we find something that needs attention, we will provide a detailed quote, answer all of your questions, and, on your approval, promptly complete the work.

Q: Can you work with my aftermarket warranty?

A: In most cases, yes. Give us your warranty information and we'll do the rest.

Q: My car is having a problem. If I bring it to you, what will happen?

A: When you give us a call, it is likely that one of our shop managers will answer. They can answer questions, provide helpful advice and arrange a time to check out your vehicle. They can help you arrange for a tow if you need one. When your vehicle arrives we will complete a thorough diagnostic check. When we know what is wrong, we will summarize our findings, write an estimate for the needed repairs and then we will contact you. We will carefully go over the information with you and give you repair options and costs, and provide a timeframe for completion of the work. Your questions are very welcome! When you decide what you want us to do, we will complete the work you authorize in a timely fashion using quality parts and attention to detail. When the job is complete we will call to let you know.

Q: Is there a cost for this inspection?

A: Our basic diagnostic check is $79. This diagnoses 85 percent of the problems that come through the door. Brake inspections are free. Computer, electrical, and drivability diagnosis can vary somewhat depending on the time needed to understand your specific problem. With a little information about your vehicle and the problems you are experiencing, we can let you know up front what your diagnostic charges will be.

Q: My car just needs an oil change or scheduled service. How do you handle that?

A: Call the shop you would like to go to and arrange a time for your service. Even though our oil change services are competitively priced we do take the time to do a thorough safety inspection with each one. If you have some things you would like to have checked on your vehicle, doing that while we are providing an oil change is often the most economical way to get them looked at. Our store managers can advise you about the things we can check as part of an oil change. As part of the service, we will check the factory maintenance schedule for your vehicle and note any items that need attention. If your car has outlived its factory maintenance schedule, the inspection, coupled with proactive service, can keep it running reliably for a very, very long time. We will normally lubricate the door locks and hinges, reset your vehicle's service indicator, and rotate the tires if they need it as part of the service, as well. If we see things that need attention, we will estimate them for you and talk to you about them.

Q: Do you offer towing service?

A: We contract with Rainbow Towing to provide that service. They are available 24 hours a day at 425-487-1233. Just be sure to let them know which of our shops you want to have your vehicle taken to, and we'll take care of the rest.

Q: Do you offer after-hours drop off and pickup service?

A: Yes. Our store managers will be happy to go over the details with you.

Q: Can you give me a ride home or to work in the local area?

A: Yes. Just let us know you need a ride when you schedule your service appointment.

Q: Do you have loaner cars?

A: Yes, we do! We offer free loaner cars with scheduled appointments for work expected to take a couple of days or more. Let us know when you schedule your appointment so we can arrange to have a loaner car available for you.

Q: How long has your company been in business?

A: Northwest Automotive has been incorporated in Washington State since 1985.

Questions? Call our Lake City Way auto repair shop today to get answers from a certified master technician and to make an appointment.