It is important to find a mechanic you trust in your area. Building trust takes time in some situations, which is why starting with a small repair rather than going into a mechanic shop for the first time for a bigger repair or emergency makes sense. 

Do you hear rattling under your wheel well and cannot determine its source? Take your vehicle in for an evaluation and estimate of repair costs. Many car repair shops try to win new business by doing first-time smaller jobs for free or significantly reduced prices. 

While the quality of the work is what earns your trust, it is also important to know which car repair shops in your area view you as a potential valued customer.

Is going to more than one mechanic near me ethical? Finding a good mechanic is often a process. You have every right to hire any number of mechanics you choose for different services.

Hiring several mechanics for various small repair cobs is an excellent telltale way to comparison-shop between car repair shops in your area. 

Some garages attempt to upsell you into more expensive repair jobs your vehicle does not need. Hiring a mechanic for small repairs lets you see his or her approach to billing and possible upselling techniques. 

Do you have a squeaky belt? See if a mechanic is able to fix it for you on the spot or if an appointment is required for a more detailed estimate. Do you have some mechanical experience?

If you already know what is wrong with your vehicle it becomes prudent  for you to pretend you do not as a means of detecting the honesty levels of a mechanic. 

Once a car mechanic or auto repair shop gains your trust, usually you then feel more confident about taking your vehicle in for larger or emergency repair jobs.