zach

The problem is everyone thinks pulling a code is diagnostics.  So we don't use that word. We can pull a code and change whatever part they request with no result guarantees.  Or we can do TESTING to find your problem just like your doctor. TESTING starts at $ and depending on how many tests need done it may be more. . Most of the time people choose TESTING over guessing. If they say auto zone or whatever parts store diagnosed it , then I just inform them they just pulled a code pointing to a system. And ask if they check for corrosion or if a mouse ate a wire. 10 years in business and don't have any problem charging for testing.  Even a test drive & brake inspection is no problem.  Transparency through documentation and proper communication is key. BILL FOR TEST. 

Excellent advice from previous post. Id just like to add that in my state a expressed mechanics lien is applied when work is done. Their vehicle is the collateral. I have it clearly posted in the office that payment is due immediately upon completion. Also if they leave it past the payment grace period there is a $20 per day storage fee. I also have a clear it don't budge until its paid in full policy, no exceptions. I do not accept checks, just cash or card. I've strictly followed these policies for the past 8 years and have had no issues getting paid. Remember its all clearly posted so they know when they step in the door. . . Hope this helps

I just have the drop in adapters. . I wish I had the screw up/ adjustable pads. . If you have a car where the plastic side skirt/Lip is lower than the body seam you need to lift against , then you will be clad to have the screw pads . . I would not put a tuxedo in my shop. . Id rather have Atlas lift if you need cheap. . . Spend a little more now will save you A lot more later. . . My Bendpak is definitely worth its money. Its great how I can lift either symmetrically or asymmetrically depending on what vehicle I'm lifting. I picked the Bendpak over the Challenger and have no regrets. hth

I Have Bendpak and Rotary in my shop. Depends on what you want to spend. .  I think the xpr10a-LP might be what you want. Or the Rotary Trio which is around $1,000 more. . You can check them out on their websites. Hope this helps.

I only accepted checks my first 6 months in business. I got burned on some checks, then made payment policy NO checks. . . . Seven years later its been no problem.  I just inform customers of the payment policy and I have no trouble. And I always get paid with this policy.

I Prefer a dedicated parts guy. I don't have a Oreillys near me, but I broke down in my personal car once and figured it out and they were the closest parts store. I bought a distributor from them and 3 weeks later it died. (My first and last transaction with them) . I replaced it with a part I knew from my local guys and never had a problem. . I buy from Advance most of the time and have only had 2 labor claims. I believe one was same day and the other was next day. . Cant believe any place could take weeks? :/

^{I am a small shop and I treat my customers like family. I rarely have waiters, almost always drop offs, as that is what I encourage. I just explain that I don't accept checks and the payment options are Cash or Card. Then I inform them that the card processing company charges a fee and it will cost them a extra 4% if they choose that route.. I haven't had any problem with this and Most of my customers are repeat or referrals. It probably helps that even with the 4% they cant get a better price or quality job in this area. .. . . . Anyway I hope this helps}

Check out BendPak and their website. That is what im putting in my new shop.