The Consumer Charter
The 10-Point Honest Mechanic Pledge
Every repair shop displaying the Honest Mechanic Alliance seal has pledged under oath and contract to uphold the following consumer protection standards.
- Itemized Written Estimates: Provide an upfront, printed estimate before commencing any disassembly or repair.
- Prior Authorization: Never perform unauthorized work. If additional defects are uncovered, the customer must authorize them explicitly.
- Old Parts Return: Save all replaced parts in a clean container for customer physical inspection upon pick-up.
- ASE Certification: Employ technicians certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
- Honest Diagnostic Fees: Charge fair, standardized testing fees that are credited toward the repair if completed at the shop.
- 24-Month / 24,000-Mile Warranty: Back all mechanical repairs with a non-deductible nationwide warranty.
- No High-Pressure Sales: Clearly categorize repairs as "Immediate Safety Critical," "Recommended Soon," or "Preventative."
- Clean Vehicle Return: Protect seats, steering wheels, and floor mats with disposable covers during all service.
- Transparent Labor Rates: Prominently post the shop's hourly labor rate in the customer waiting lounge.
- Binding Arbitration: Agree to neutral third-party mediation for any consumer billing dispute.