Mobile Mechanic Guidelines
[ Diagnostics & Pricing ]
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Guidelines:
1. Diagnostic Procedures and Fees
1.1 Tests and Procedures
Tired of replacing the wrong parts and still having issues?
Before a modern vehicle can be repaired, the issue must first be diagnosed. The days when a technician could diagnose
most issues just by looking at and listening to a vehicle are long gone. And no, a parts store scan cannot
accurately tell you which part needs to be replaced. Their role is to sell parts, not to repair vehicles.
Our goal is the exact opposite; we focus on repairing your vehicle without replacing parts unless absolutely necessary.
Today's networked, computer-based vehicles are far more complex and require professional diagnostic methods to
accurately pinpoint issues.
Prior to proceeding with services, repairs or part replacements, it is often necessary to perform diagnostic tests and
procedures to precisely identify and confirm a vehicle’s malfunctions. A diagnostic is an essential part of
the repair process, designed to save you money by avoiding unnecessary part replacements. Additional charges
may apply based on the complexity of the diagnostic, but this process forms the foundation
for creating an accurate estimate of the total repair cost and serves as an essential and integral part of the repair itself.
And because diagnostics may require some disassembly, parts of the repair could already be underway.
By approving the repair, the final cost will remain consistent, and the risk of replacing incorrect parts, which
leads to higher expenses, is virtually eliminated.
In some circumstances where there are only minor issues, the repair may take place during and as part of the diagnostic,
in which case no additional charge or only a minimal one may be necessary. In other words, the diagnostic fee may sometimes
cover the cost of the repair itself, with little or no additional service charges.
In short, we don’t guess the problem, we prove it, then we repair.
1.2 Diagnostic, testing & Inspection Fees
While some minor repairs, such as those involving visible or obvious issues, may not require diagnostic work,
a diagnostic fee for each issue is required for more complex problems to ensure accurate identification and confirmation.
This fee must be prepaid in full before we examine a vehicle and does not guarantee that the issue will be identified.
Any increase in diagnostic fees will be communicated to you for approval prior to proceeding. This charge may exclude final
repair costs, but does include reassembly if the repairs are not approved.
While diagnostic time may be factored into the total cost of repairs and parts, we prefer to be
completely transparent and not hide this cost within the total repair. This ensures that you, the
vehicle owner, have the information needed to make informed decisions. This approach allows you to decide
whether to proceed with repairs, especially if costs are higher than anticipated,
before further work is undertaken.
If you choose not to pay a separate diagnostic fee, or in cases where a diagnostic is unnecessary,
work can proceed without it, and the total will remain approximately the same. However, the exact
cost may not be determined in advance, and from your point of view, there is little benefit in taking
this approach. Refer to Sections 2 (Estimates and Pricing) and
Section 3 (Service Payment Structure) below for more information.
In addition, we’re not able to accept diagnostics provided by third parties or what you may have seen
on the internet without confirmation. To perform accurate and
reliable repairs, we need to verify issues ourselves using our own diagnostic methods and equipment.
Third-party assessments may be incomplete, incorrect, outdated, or based on different standards or
assumptions, which can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary work. For both accuracy and accountability,
it’s important that we confirm the problem directly before beginning any repair.
1.3 Diagnostic Levels and Pricing
At Speedy Pit Stop, we categorize our diagnostic services into three levels to reflect the complexity and
precision required to address various vehicle issues. Each level builds on the previous, offering a structured
approach to identifying and resolving problems effectively. Pricing is aligned with our hourly rate, ensuring
transparency and value.
In addition, our Basic Pre-Diagnostic Scan
is a quick, budget-friendly service to assess your vehicle’s health. It involves connecting a scan
tool to your vehicle’s onboard computer system to retrieve stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
This scan provides a preliminary overview of potential issues by identifying error codes that can
point to specific faults.
However, this scan does not include the analysis of live data, electrical system checks, or a detailed inspection
of the vehicle’s systems. It’s ideal for a general overview but will not provide a comprehensive diagnosis of complex
issues, mechanical failures (e.g., low compression, valve timing problems, vacuum leaks, etc.) or failures in systems not monitored by
the vehicle's computer.
Note that in many cases, a full repair estimate cannot be prepared based solely on this scan.
However, the scan often serves as a foundation for a more accurate diagnostic estimate. This approach
helps minimize costs by ensuring you only pay for what’s necessary to determine the source of the
problem.
Refer to the
Diagnostic Trouble Codes document
for more information.
Price: Please contact us for current rates.
Level 1: Enhanced Diagnostics
Enhanced Diagnostics (Level 1) goes beyond the basic scan by incorporating a visual inspection of the
vehicle and more comprehensive tests to identify common issues like sensor failures, wiring problems,
and other more apparent malfunctions. We will utilize basic OBD scan tools and other tools to assess
the condition of the most commonly failed parts.
If the issue is found during this process, we may proceed with repairs immediately. If we need further
tests or disassembly to diagnose, we may recommend advancing to Level 2 diagnostics.
Price Range: Please contact us
for current rates.
Level 2: Advanced Diagnostics
Advanced Diagnostics (Level 2) builds on Level 1 by incorporating additional testing methods and
diagnostic tools. This level involves the use of live data monitoring, electrical system testing,
and sometimes partial disassembly to examine components in more detail. It’s designed to find issues
that are not immediately apparent through a standard OBD scan and visual inspection.
If your vehicle is experiencing intermittent electrical failures, poor performance, or warning
lights without clear codes, Level 2 diagnostics will explore deeper system interactions and provide
more insight into what’s causing the issue. This diagnostic level boasts an 85% success rate,
resolving more complicated issues and offering a clearer path to repair.
Price Range: Please contact us
for current rates.
Level 3: Expert Diagnostics
Expert Diagnostics (Level 3) involves the use of highly specialized tools and techniques to address
the most complex and hard-to-diagnose vehicle issues. This level may include reprogramming, advanced
software diagnostics, or collaboration with third-party specialists to uncover problems that require
expert attention.
This level is best suited for rare or intricate problems, such as hybrid system failures, ADAS
malfunctions, or deep electrical or system issues. It guarantees the highest likelihood of resolution
for even the most difficult cases.
Price Range: Please contact us
for current rates.
1.4 Online Technical Resources
There may be additional varying charges for accessing online technical resources, which are
necessary for obtaining shop manuals, schematics, troubleshooting information, repair procedures, and electrical diagrams.
These fees will be assessed based on the complexity of the repair and the specific resources required to
complete the service effectively.
Notice: We expect possible cost increases throughout the year, especially on imported
components, parts, tools and equipment. While we'll absorb a
portion of these rising costs ourselves, price adjustments may occur over time.
To help offset
these increases and support our loyal customers, we’re introducing a tiered approach to
service pricing, offering discounted rates to repeat clients. Our goal is to maintain high-quality
service without sudden or excessive changes (See section 2.4 below for details).
2.1 Our Approach to Pricing Estimates
We do not provide fixed-price quotes due to the numerous variables involved with modern vehicles.
Offering a fixed price would require quoting either high enough to cover all possible scenarios or
too low to complete the repair effectively. Instead, we may provide informed estimates or estimated ranges
based on our expertise, experience, and industry standards, while emphasizing that the diagnostic approach
described above is typically the most effective for all parties.
For repairs exceeding $150.00, the law requires that customers be offered the option of a detailed written estimate. You have three options to choose from:
Any updates to an estimate or adjustments to pricing will be communicated according to your preference.
2.2 How Our Hourly Rates Are Determined
Our pricing aligns with industry standards, ensuring fairness and transparency.
Our rates are determined using a service matrix, taking into account specific circumstances
such as time of day, work performed outside normal business hours, on holidays, during bad weather, for
certain vehicle brands, for particularly complex tasks, for older vehicles that require
additional attention, vehicles that have already been worked on, or for situations requiring special equipment.
2.3 Save on Afternoon Service Appointments
Looking for a way to save on expert automotive diagnostics and repairs? Afternoon appointments
come with a discounted rate, making it easier to get the service you need at a lower cost. By
scheduling in the afternoon, you help us maintain a more balanced schedule, ensuring we can focus
on delivering top-quality service for all our customers.
This discount applies to select services and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Schedule your appointment today to check availability and take advantage of lower rates without compromising
on quality.
2.4 We Remember You - And Thank You for It
We know car troubles aren’t fun, but coming back to someone you trust should be.
That’s why we’re introducing a new way to say thanks for your continued support.
Starting this year, repeat customers will receive discounted service rates through our
new loyalty pricing program.
It’s our way of helping offset rising costs without compromising on quality.
Here’s how it works:
At Speedy Pit Stop, we believe long-term customers deserve long-term value. That’s why
returning customers automatically receive discounted service rates based on their
invoicing history.
The more you’ve trusted us over time, the more you save:
Please contact us
for full details.
2.5 Extra Savings with Cash or Zelle
Pay with cash or Zelle to receive a 5% discount on all services and parts.
3.1 Our Step-by-Step Payment Structure Keeps You in Control
For any daily work or stages of the repair process, we follow a Step-by-Step Payment Structure,
where payment is requested before each phase begins (along with parts and applicable sales tax).
This approach ensures transparency and keeps you informed throughout the process.
In most cases, this does not involve paying for the entire job upfront. Instead, payments are made
at each stage as the work moves forward. First, you begin by covering the diagnostic process as
applicable. Once our findings are shared with you, you can decide whether to move forward. If you
choose to proceed, payment will be made for each subsequent stage of work as outlined. Our approach
helps you avoid unexpected large invoices and empowers you to make the best decisions for your vehicle,
while modern payment methods like Zelle greatly simplify this method.
The following example illustrates the process:
In this example, the first payment was made on Day 1 for the diagnostic process that began on
the vehicle. After sharing our findings with the customer, they decided to continue the process
until the issue was fully identified, which led to the second payment being made on Day 2.
On Day 3, the customer gained a better understanding of their vehicle and chose to proceed
with a secondary repair. At that time, they made a payment for both the secondary repair and
the remaining balance needed to complete the primary repair. On Day 4, the customer made their
final payment. The project's reassembly was completed on Day 5 when the parts arrived, and
some programming was done on Day 6 before the vehicle was delivered to the customer.
2. Estimates and Pricing
This option typically includes both a diagnostic fee and an estimate preparation fee.
In this case, Speedy Pit Stop provides a written estimate, which may be less comprehensive or exact, and typically only includes a diagnostic fee without an estimate preparation fee.
This option avoids both diagnostic and estimate preparation fees, but the exact service cost may not be determined in advance.
3. Service Payment Structure
Of course, not every project is this complex or takes this long, but we’ve provided a comprehensive scenario to help you better understand our payment structure.
3.2 How a Progressive Payment Structure Benefits You
Progressive, step-by-step payments are a standard practice in many professional services, allowing us to operate efficiently while maintaining competitive rates. By collecting payment at each stage, starting with diagnostics and initial work, we ensure fair resource allocation and smooth scheduling. This structure allows us to secure necessary parts and schedule appointments with confidence, preventing wasted materials and unfilled time slots due to no-shows.
Our incremental approach also helps reduce instances of non-payment, which can lead to increased costs for all customers. While most people have no issues paying their repair invoice, a small number may try to take advantage of repair shops or mobile technicians. Since we cannot apply different payment terms to different customers, we use a consistent payment structure that works for everyone, allowing us to focus on delivering quality service. We believe that if you are committed to the repair process, the payment structure should make little difference from your perspective as a customer.
While prepayment covers diagnostics or initial work, additional costs may apply depending on the complexity of repairs as shown above. However, many customers find peace of mind in knowing that we provide clear communication and detailed updates throughout the process. In addition, because our payment structure helps keep our overhead low, you benefit from excellent pricing compared to most shops.
3.3 Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy
When an appointment is canceled, a shop or mobile technician loses valuable productivity, resulting in a financial impact. While we understand that cancellations may be unavoidable for valid reasons, we charge a reasonable Cancellation and Rescheduling Fee to help offset the lost time rather than passing that cost on to other customers.
4. Final Payment
Any remaining balance (plus applicable sales tax) is due upon completion of the work if it is finished the same day or at the end of each day if the work spans multiple days.
5. Parts and Supplies
All necessary parts and supplies (plus applicable sales tax) must be prepaid before work on your vehicle begins. For liability, warranty and other reasons, we generally cannot install customer-supplied parts. A Parts Research fee may apply for locating hard-to-find or specialty parts.
In some cases, appropriate replacement parts may not be immediately available, and the existing part cannot be repaired. When this occurs, the vehicle may remain disassembled until a suitable part is located, or it may be reassembled with the defective part if no alternative is found, resulting in no effective repair. In such situations, all service and supply charges remain fully payable, as they would if a replacement part were available.
In the instances that we agree to install customer-supplied parts (such as with new tires, new batteries, and new audio equipment), our standard hourly rate will increase by a minimum of 25%, and no warranty will be provided for either the parts or the associated repairs, upgrades or services.
If the part(s) you supply are defective, fail prematurely, cause damage, or do not fit properly, as is often the case with low-quality components, you will still be responsible for the service charge each time installation is attempted or performed. Additional diagnostic charges may also apply if an issue needs to be reconfirmed before proceeding.
6. Estimates and Adjustments
In some cases, we can provide a free estimate.
For more extensive projects, or if you request a highly detailed written estimate, an estimate preparation fee may apply.
Additionally, for complex issues, providing an accurate estimate may require inspecting the vehicle, which could involve a diagnostic fee.
In any case, you will never be charged for anything without your explicit consent.
If you received an estimate, please review it carefully. Changes may occur during the repair process, and we will notify you of any adjustments before proceeding.
7. Other Fees
Please
contact us
if you'd like to inquire about our rates and fees.
8. Overdue Fee for Unpaid Balances
If your vehicle is released before full payment is made, and an unpaid balance remains after three days of notification, a daily fee on the cumulative unpaid balance will be applied.
9. Consultation Time
We value open communication regarding your vehicle. However, after 30 to 60 minutes of discussion, depending on the scope of the service in question, additional time will be billed at our service rate as ‘Consultation’ time.
Time spent communicating with your insurance or warranty company may also fall under consultation time, if we agree to assist with it. Please note that we do not work with all companies, as some are too difficult or time-consuming to deal with. Contact us in advance if you would like us to consider accepting your insurance or third-party warranty.
10. Accepted Payment Methods
- Cash*
- Zelle*
- Visa & MasterCard debit or credit cards (upon pre-approval)**
- PayPal (upon pre-approval)**
- Check (upon pre-approval)
* Pay with cash or Zelle to receive a 5% discount on all services and parts.
** Please refer to the Paypal, Credit & Debit Card Agreement for important information about paying with PayPal, or a debit/credit card.
*** You can contact us directly if you'd like specific information about our various rates and fees.
11. Warranty
Our warranty coverage for parts and service is flexible, allowing you to choose the level of protection that best suits your needs. If you prefer a lower-cost repair, you can select a 30-day warranty. However, you also have the option to choose an extended warranty of 90 days, 180 days, 1 year, or 2 years. The warranty you select will directly impact the price of parts and service, as longer coverage periods may involve higher costs. Higher-quality parts may also be used as needed, giving you more control over your repair and warranty terms. This allows you to balance cost and coverage according to your preferences.
We hope this document clarifies many of your pricing questions and contributes to a smooth transaction.
Our Mobile Service page also contains
important information you may want to review.
Should you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.
Sincerely,
I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I have received and read this Guidelines document. I understand the payment terms and agree to adhere to them.
Speedy Pit Stop
Acknowledgment of Receipt
| Customer Name: | Vehicle (year/brand/model): |
| ____________________________ | ___________________________ |
| Date: | Customer Signature: |
| ____________________________ | ____________________________ |