1. Can I use an independent service shop while my car is covered under warranty?

You may absolutely use an independent service shop (like The Import Doctors) while your car is still under warranty -- it is your right. Maintenance interval services, oil changes, brakes and aftermarket accessories are all among the services we are happy to provide. Having any of these services performed at The Import Doctors will not void your warranty in any way. For more information on your rights as a warranty-holder, Google Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or visit the following Wikipedia link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnuson-Moss_Warranty_Act

2. Do you have capabilities to do computer diagnostics on my car and tell me what's wrong?

This is a common question. Years ago, when scopes were first released, they were considered the latest in automotive diagnostics technology. Just hook up this machine to your car and it'll automatically tell us what all of the problems are, right? Not exactly...
The Import Doctors uses the most current factory scanners and scopes to help diagnose issues affecting your automobile. These machines output data that helps our certified technicians figure out what work needs to be performed on your vehicle. The information the machines provide only offers clues to what may be wrong, however, and it is only the expert mechanics who will be able to interpret this data and along with their own analysis of your vehicle provide you with a definitive diagnosis of what needs to be done.
Using the scanner technology along with good-old-fashioned mechanical know-how provides you with the most accurate assessment of your vehicle's needs which results in the best and most appropriate care for your car at the most cost-effective rates.

3. Do you accept extended/aftermarket warranties?

Yes we do. We will work with you and your insurance company to ensure you receive the services you need.
Please be prepared to provide your warranty contract and the contact information of your warranty company so that we may start a claim right away.

4. How often should I change my oil?

At least twice as often as the factory recommendation for European models. Factory recommendations are typically minimal requirements to adhere to warranty regulations and are not reflective of what is the optimal care for your vehicle.
Failing to change your vehicle's oil often enough can result in sludge, which can cause serious and costly engine problems.

5. Will you scan my car for free?

We would like to be able to scan everyone's car for free. Due to the high cost of employing the latest scanner technology, however, we are unable to do this. In addition, the scanner technology is only as good as the technician who operates it, and our highly qualified technicians at The Import Doctors are extensively trained to make the best use of the information provided by the scan tool. Like the old cliche says; "You get what you pay for," and here at The Import Doctors you can expect professional, expert advice and services.
There are other shops that will scan your car for free, but they will without doubt recoup these costs by hiding them in the parts and labor charges in your final bill. We prefer to be up front and honest. We understand that building a relationship of trust with our clients will be mutually beneficial in the long run.

6. What is a "No Hassle Warranty?"

Everyone at one time or another has been in this situation. Something is wrong with your automotive repair. Now it turns into fight just to get it resolved. You are being made to feel that you are dishonest or too demanding. Maybe that new brake job is squeaking. You are told to just keep driving it. That brand new window motor is making noise. You are told that the window is closing the way it should and to disregard the fact that it sounds like a box of rocks.
Simply stated, a "No Hassle Warranty" is just what it sounds like. You have a warranty issue with anything we did; we are going to take care of it, period. No fighting, no screaming, no finger pointing. Just a stand up, step up to the plate, rock solid policy of customer satisfaction.

7. What is difference between the "Check Engine" light and the "Service Engine Soon" light?

There is no difference, there are both the same. This light is for our on board diagnostic system. If the light is on then the car's computer has detected a problem and the light is warning you to have your car checked out by a service professional.

8. What makes you different from other Import/Foreign independent repair facilities?

What makes us different? We don't just say we're all about customer service; we are all about customer service. It's our approach to the way we run our business. Just ask our customers!
We don't just say we fix Import/Foreign cars, we actually do FIX Import/Foreign cars and we fix them Right. We do not cut corners; we do not use cheap, substandard replacement parts. It is easy to for us to be proud of our work because we do it right.

9. Can I bring my own parts?

We always strive to provide the best service possible and do not want you to feel that we're not here to serve you, therefore we will allow you to bring your own parts. We will not be able to guarantee/warranty the job you want us to complete, since we are not the supplier of the parts and cannot warranty them for you. If there are any issues with the parts we, of course, could not guarantee them.

10. Can I wait for my repair?

Yes you can, but it depends on the repair. If it is a time consuming repair we ask you to drop off your car, if it is a simple service like an oil change then we can accommodate you with waiting for your car. We just ask you to tell us prior to your visit so we can be prepared.

11. Do you require appointments?

Yes we do, but give us a call, we will try to accommodate you in anyway we can.

12. Do you provide discounted car rentals?

Yes we do through Enterprise Rental Car. Please inquire when making your appointment so we can set up a rental for you.

13. What are your hours?

Monday thru Friday 7:30 am to 7:00 pm
Saturdays 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

14. Do you have a night/early bird drop off?

Yes we do. Call us for details.

15. What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards and cash.

16. Is your shop insured?

Yes our shop is insured. So far we have not had to use this policy. We are very careful with your valued possessions.

17. Do you have wireless Internet access in your waiting room?

Yes we do!

18. Do you provide towing?

No, we do not. We work closely with two great towing companies in the Puget Sound area. Please call us for details.

19. What do you charge?

We charge by the job, not by the typical hour or "Book" time. We take into consideration the severity of the job and the actual time it takes us to do the job. An easy job does not cost as much as a hard job. We strive to be fair with our prices to both our customers and to us. And as always we will supply you with an estimate before any repairs are performed.

20. Can you give me an estimate over the phone?

The short quick answer is that the problem has to be diagnosed before it is estimated. This is virtually impossible over the phone. Even a common brake job may have too many variables like mid year caliper, pad and rotor part number split variations. We would rather cultivate a relationship with an accurate estimate in person than ruin it with a shoot from the hip approach over the phone. We will always be happy to put your vehicle on a lift for a free visual check.