How do I get a second opinion on a car repair quote?
Ask the first shop for a written, itemized estimate, which California shops are required to provide. Take it to another qualified shop and ask them to inspect the car themselves and give their own findings on each item, ideally with photos or measurements. Compare what each shop found and recommends, not only the totals. If the shops agree, you can proceed with confidence; if they don't, ask each to show you why.
Get the right paperwork first
In California, a repair shop must give you a written estimate before starting work, and can't exceed it without your consent. Ask for it itemized, with parts and labor listed for each item, and with the reason for each recommendation.
What to ask the second shop
- Inspect the car independently, not just read the first estimate
- Give their own finding on each item: needed now, soon, or not needed
- Show photos or measurements: pad thickness, play in a joint, where a leak is coming from
- Tell you what's safety-related and what's maintenance or comfort
Reading the results
| What you find | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Both shops agree | Proceed with confidence |
| Second shop says "not yet" | It may be wearing but not due; ask how long it can go |
| Second shop says "not needed" | Ask to see why; photos settle it |
| Second shop finds something different | The car may have more than one issue; ask both to explain |
Our customers have seen it go both ways: brakes a dealer called fine that weren't, and recommended work on a Lexus and a Hyundai that wasn't needed. Second opinions
From drivers who came to us
They addressed an issue with my brakes that the dealer had told me was just fine. They not only resolved my issue, but were quick and honest.
Upon inspection of my car they told me they disagreed with Hyundai and I didn't need all of the extra work done that Hyundai proposed. They changed only the necessary parts (valve cover gasket and alternator and cleaned up the oil spray mess).
They completed a full inspection of my car and shared what they found and what I needed to replace via text with pictures… My front ball joints and front shocks looked good and did not need to be replaced per previous recommendations.
Excerpts from verified customer reviews on Yelp.
More questions
Is it rude to get a second opinion?
No. It's normal for significant repairs, the same as with a medical procedure. A good shop expects it.
Will the second shop charge for an inspection?
Many do, because a real inspection takes time on a lift. Ask up front. It's worth it when the estimate is large.
What if the car isn't safe to drive to another shop?
Ask the first shop to show you the problem, take photos, and explain why it's unsafe. You can also have the car towed.