The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence was founded in 1972 with a single mission: upgrade the technical skills of working automotive professions by establishing a nationwide testing and certification program. Technician, employer, and consumer alike benefit from ASE's voluntary program. Technicians get a respected credential that is their own; employers get a tested and credentialed workforce; and most importantly, consumers have a valuable tool by which to gauge the professionals who will work on their vehicles. ASE issues pocket and wall credentials listing the exact area(s) of certification, say, brakes or engine performance of the automotive professionals.

And while ASE certifies individual technicians-not repair establishments--it
stands to reason that shop owners who encourage their technicians to become ASE certified (and often pay for their technicians' testing) should be equally concerned about the other aspects of their business. Here are some additional tips on finding a good repair establishment:

* Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one.
* Ask your friends and associates for their recommendations; consult local consumer groups.
* Arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a shop based solely on location.
* Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.
* Look for a courteous staff, with a service consultant willing to answer all of your questions.
* Look for policies regarding estimated repair costs, diagnostic fees, guarantees, acceptable methods of payment, etc.
* Ask if the repair facility specializes or if it usually handles your type of repair work.
* Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area such as civic, community, or customer service awards.
* Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced courses, and ASE certification.
* Look for the ASE sign.
* Facilities with a high percentage of ASE-certified professionals may also be members of the elite Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition Program