When you need auto repair on your vehicle, the shop you choose is critical. Some repairs require specialized tools and equipment to do the work, so in some cases, a general auto repair shop may not be the best choice. The problem you are having with your car can often dictate where to take it, so pay attention to the symptoms you recognize.

Engine Issues

If the engine in your car is running poorly, you can take your vehicle to a general auto repair shop for diagnostics and repair. Any general repair shop should have the tools and equipment to scan the computer for error codes and check the systems on the engine to determine where the problem is. 

Let the tech or service advisor know what the engine is doing so they can use that information to search for the problem. A car starting hard and idling poorly may have a dirty air filter, a clogged fuel filter, or a problem with a sensor in the fuel injection system. 

Simple information can often be helpful. If the car idles rough when cold and smoothes out after it warms up, let the shop know because that information could point to an entirely different problem, compared to a car where this is an issue constantly.

Transmission Problems

A vehicle that is not shifting correctly or is having difficulty with the transmission slipping when accelerating is more than likely going to go to a transmission repair shop. While some auto repair shops can work on the transmission, taking the vehicle to a shop specializing in that type of repair can have some benefits if you know the problem is in the transmission. 

Because they specialize in just automotive transmissions and gearboxes, the transmission repair shop is typically going to get the repair done faster. The technicians are trained to work with the transmission and understand all the parts and systems used to make them work. If the transmission is computer-controlled, it is essential that the shop has the right computer system to retrieve data, reprogram the system, and make adjustments to sensors and other system parts that can affect the performance. 

The diagnostic computer in most auto repair shops can read the system in these transmissions but are not always advanced enough to make changes to the computer profile when needed. Taking your vehicle to the right shop for repairs can make the process less painful and get to the heart of the problem quickly. 

Handling And Ride Quality

Often suspension issues can be handled in a general auto repair shop, but look for a shop that does alignments if you are having a problem with your vehicle's handling or ride quality. The car may often begin to handle differently because parts are wearing out and allowing the alignment to change. 

The auto repair shop can check the alignment for you, inspect the suspension and steering system, and replace worn parts. Once the work is complete, the car can go back on the rack, and the alignment reset so that the vehicle begins to drive and handle properly again.

When you feel like something is wrong with your car, it is imperative that you get it looked at by a professional. An auto repair shop can help you figure out exactly what the issue is.