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Mobile Mechanic Guidelines [ Diagnostics & Pricing ] [This page is formatted for printing]
Nobody can figure out how to fix your car?
It takes more than plugging in a scanner.
Our focus is on pinpointing issues rather than guessing which part needs replacement,
since in many cases no parts are needed at all.
1.1 Tests and Procedures
Modern repairs often start with data, not wrenches
Prior to proceeding with services, repairs or part replacements, the issue must first be diagnosed properly,
and it is often necessary to perform diagnostic tests and
procedures to precisely identify and confirm a vehicle's malfunctions.
The days when a technician could figure out
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. You can visit our Mechatronics page
to better understand how modern vehicles operate.
Diagnostics are 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 diagnosis, 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 the process 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 diagnosis,
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 diagnosis 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 1 (Estimates and Pricing) and
Section 3 (Service Payment Structure) below for more information.
In addition, we're not able to accept diagnoses provided by third parties or what you may have seen
on the internet or YouTube 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 equipment,
vehicles, 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: $31.58 (plus applicable sales tax)
Level 1: Standard Diagnostics
Standard Diagnostics (Level 1) goes beyond the Basic Pre-Diagnostic 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: $126-$189 (1.0 hr - 1.5 hr - plus applicable sales tax)
Level 2: Advanced Diagnostics
Advanced Diagnostics (Level 2) builds on Level 1 by incorporating additional testing methods and
diagnostic tools such as a borescope, thermal camera, current probes, oscilloscope, ad more. 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.
In addition, if the vehicle has been previously worked on unsuccessfully and parts were replaced
without fixing the problem, but the symptoms can still be reproduced, this diagnostic level applies.
It boasts an 85% success rate in resolving more complicated issues and provides a clearer path to repair.
Price Range: $252.00-$409.50 (2.0 hr - 3.25 hr - plus applicable sales tax)
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 designed for vehicles with multiple or long-standing issues, extensive warning lights,
or a history of unsuccessful repair attempts with parts already replaced. It is also suited for rare
or intricate problems, such as hybrid system failures, ADAS malfunctions, or complex electrical and
system issues. While it provides the highest likelihood of resolution for even the most difficult
cases, the work involved cannot be guaranteed within a fixed amount of time or effort.
Price Range: $567.00-$756.00+ (4.5 hr - 6.0+ hr - plus applicable sales tax)
Notice: 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 2.8 below for details).
2.1 Our Approach to Pricing Estimates
A free estimate is provided in most cases. Click
Estimate to begin.
Your initial basic estimate is free, but to prevent abuse of this service, additional basic estimates
may incur a fee if you choose not to proceed with the service. Any such fee will be credited toward your
invoice if applicable.
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.
2.2 Estimate Adjustments
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 in section 2 (Diagnostic Procedures and Fees) below is typically the most effective.
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, unless you requested otherwise.
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.
2.3 How Our Hourly Rates Are Determined
Our base hourly rates vary between $126 and $185 (plus applicable sales tax) or more during holidays,
as determined using a service matrix. This matrix takes into account specific circumstances such as time of day, work
performed outside normal business hours, on holidays, during bad weather, for certain vehicle brands or luxury vehicles,
for particularly complex tasks, for older vehicles that require additional attention, issues that have already been
worked on, or for situations requiring special equipment or subscriptions.
2.4 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.
2.5 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.
2.6 Extra Savings with Cash or Zelle When Paid On Time
Receive a 5% discount on services and parts when you pay with cash or Zelle on or
before the invoice date.
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:
Discount budget
Track a loyalty discount balance per customer.
Example: Customer spent $3,000 → 5% potential discount = $150.
Each invoice reduces this balance until it is used up.
Please contact us
for details.
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.
No Surprise Billing
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.
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
Efficiency & Smooth Scheduling
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.
Quality Service at the Best Price
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 at the best price. We believe that if you are
committed to the repair process, the payment structure should make little difference from your
perspective as a customer.
Clear Communication
While prepayment covers diagnostics or initial work and parts, 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.
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. Full payment must be made before
the vehicle can be released, in accordance with Florida's Mechanic's Lien Statute Sections §559.905 and
§713.58, which grant a lien to secure payment for labor, services, and materials provided.
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.
In the instances that we agree to install customer-supplied parts (such as with
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.
Service and parts warranty is normally covered through parts sales, and our pricing
does not include provisions for service warranty without it.
Therefore, no warranty of any kind is offered when using customer-supplied parts (in the rare instances
we agree to use them), as failures may result from parts not sold by us or from a third-party misdiagnosis.
We also cannot provide free service to replace them if they turn out to be defective or if the wrong parts
were installed at the customer's request.
Allowing exceptions would introduce ambiguity into the warranty process, since
the exact cause of a malfunction may be unclear.
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.
Please refer to our Warranty
page for information.
Consumables, installation and other supplies: When used in small quantities, miscellaneous products and supplies such as abrasive discs, pads and
materials, anti-seize, automotive electrical tape, battery terminal spray, bead sealer, butane and propane gas, butt connectors and terminals,
cable ties and mounts, chemicals, cleaners, clamps, clips, conformal coating, contact conditioner, corrosion inhibitor
spray, degreaser, dielectric grease, double-sided automotive tape, electrical contact cleaner, epoxy
or panel bonding adhesive, flux, flux-cored wire, flux-cored solder, fasteners, gloves, glue, harness tape (OEM-style
cloth tape), heat-shrink tubing, ink & paper printing, isopropyl alcohol, liquid electrical tape, loom or split conduit, lubricants, mini
and micro fuses, minor fluid top-offs to complete specific service, nuts and bolts (small), O-rings, RTV sealant,
Schrader valve cores, shielding gas, silicone grease and other specialty greases, small seals, small springs, solder,
solvents, split loom, spray paint, starter fluid, terminal back-probe pins, threadlocker, wheel weights, and other
general shop supplies are billed as a consolidated line item because itemizing small quantities of each would be
impractical. Grouping these incidental items reduces administrative and billing time, allowing us to keep overall costs lower.
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, or worse, vehicle no longer operates. In such situations, all service and supply charges
remain fully payable, as they would if a replacement part were available, as this is out of our control.
A storage fee may apply when a vehicle remains on the premises after repairs are completed and the customer has
been notified, when a vehicle is inoperable and awaiting extended backordered parts, when authorization for
repairs is delayed, or when a customer declines recommended repairs but leaves the vehicle on site. Storage
charges are typically assessed as a daily rate to offset the use of limited workspace and commonly range from
$25 to $75 per day, depending on circumstances. See Section 14 below for more information.
If your vehicle is released before full payment is made, and an unpaid balance remains after
three days of notification, you may incur additional charges, including a $36.00 administration charge
and a daily overdue fee of up to 15% per month (0.5% per day), to offset administrative and collection costs.
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.
If you intend to use an insurance policy or third-party warranty to cover your invoice,
you must inform us at the time of your original service request. Requests made after the work
order and service have begun or been completed will not be accepted for insurance or warranty processing.
You will be responsible for full payment of all charges and must submit the claim to your warranty company
directly, but they may decline the repairs since prior authorization was not given.
So please contact us in advance if you would
like us to consider accepting your insurance or third-party warranty. Also note
that we do not work with all companies, as some are too difficult or time-consuming to deal with.
In addition, time spent communicating with your insurance or warranty company will fall under
'Insurance/Warranty Coordination' and is billable, if we agree to assist with it.
If you request that we work with your insurance company or third-party warranty provider
and we agree, we will handle the claim process on your behalf. This process may be extensive,
and in some cases significant disassembly and lengthly communication may be required to complete the
inspection. These costs may not be fully covered by your insurance or warranty, even if coverage
is approved. Coverage approval is not guaranteed, and if your insurance or warranty provider
declines or limits coverage, you will be responsible for full payment of all charges, or for
any portion of the charges not covered.
At Speedy Pit Stop, we stand behind our work. Every applicable repair comes with a 2-year warranty, covering parts and service,
so you can drive with confidence. We use advanced diagnostics and quality components to ensure lasting
performance.
Please refer to our Warranty page for complete details.
* Pay with cash or Zelle to receive a 5% discount on all services and parts when paid on time.
** Please refer to the Paypal, Credit & Debit Card Agreement for important information about paying with PayPal, or a debit/credit card.
Our appointment date and time are for mobile services or for dropping off your vehicle at the shop only. Please note that we do not have facilities for customers to wait while their vehicle is being serviced. We kindly ask that you plan ahead to leave the shop during the service and return once your vehicle is ready. We're happy to assist with transportation if needed. Travel or rideshare fees may apply.
Vehicle may or may not be ready on the same day. After service work is completed, customer will have 3 days to pick up the vehicle before a daily $75 storage fee applies as applicable.
DIAGNOSTICS ARE AN ESSENTIAL AND INTEGRAL PART OF THE REPAIR PROCESS AND HELP AVOID UNNECESSARY PART REPLACEMENTS, POTENTIALLY SAVING CUSTOMERS MONEY. NO GUARANTY IS IMPLIED WITHIN THIS CHARGE. ADDITIONAL CHARGES MAY APPLY DEPENDING ON THE COMPLEXITY OF THE DIAGNOSIS. WE WILL ALWAYS SEEK CUSTOMER APPROVAL BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH ANY CHARGES FOR REPAIRS, SERVICES, DIAGNOSTIC WORK, OR ESTIMATES. SINCE DIAGNOSTICS MAY INVOLVE DISASSEMBLY, SOME REPAIR STEPS MAY ALREADY BE INITIATED, AND PARTS COULD BE REPLACED AS PART OF THE DIAGNOSTIC PROCESS. THIS CHARGE MAY EXCLUDE PARTS AND FINAL REPAIR COSTS, BUT INCLUDES REASSEMBLY IF REPAIRS ARE NOT APPROVED. IN SOME CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE THERE ARE ONLY MINOR ISSUES, REPAIR MAY ACTUALLY TAKE PLACE DURING AND AS PART OF THE DIAGNOSIS, IN WHICH CASE NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE IS NEEDED.
IF SPS IS UNABLE TO PERFORM IN-HOUSE ALL OR PART OF THE REPAIRS IDENTIFIED IN THE DIAGNOSIS, SPS MAY SUBLET THE WORK TO ONE OR MORE THIRD PARTIES OF ITS CHOICE OR ELECT TO DECLINE THE REPAIR AT ITS SOLE DISCRETION. EXAMPLES OF THIS INCLUDE MACHINE SHOPS, ELECTRONICS REFURBISHING SPECIALTY SERVICES, OR ANY OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS OR SUB-CONTRACTORS DEEMED APPROPRIATE.
Customer hereby authorizes the above services, including sublet work, along with the necessary materials, with the understanding that other parts may break or become damaged during the service or repair, which may need to be repaired or replaced in addition to the above at my expense.
Furthermore, customer understands that this estimate does not include the repair or replacement of unforeseen adjacent items that may require servicing. While this is especially common with older vehicles, it is not limited to them. Current engineering, manufacturing, and assembly practices can introduce issues even in brand new vehicles that can lead to additional repair costs. Hidden issues, problems, or pre-existing conditions may be uncovered during the course of the work, regardless of a vehicle's age. If a defect is discovered during or after a repair, it does not automatically mean it was caused by our work. Sometimes coincidences happen, parts can fail unexpectedly at any time, whether a vehicle is being worked on or sitting idle. Discovering an issue simply means it existed or developed, not that it was introduced.
Rust, old or worn parts, items that have been previously worked on or modified, stripped bolts and other fasteners, wrong parts fitted, and difficult-to-obtain components are all examples of time-consuming situations that can result in higher service and repair costs. Newer vehicles can present similar challenges, including factory assembly defects, fragile, deformed, or easily damaged plastic assemblies that no longer fit properly, and tightly packaged components that require extra time to access.
Plastic composite, rubber components, and other materials throughout the entire vehicle are affected by age, heat cycles, their inherent quality, and temperature fluctuations, which can make them fragile. This applies to items in the engine bay, cooling system, interior, chassis, suspension, electrical housings, and underbody areas. Because of these factors, such materials may crack, break, deform, wear out, or even disintegrate during procedures that require disassembly or handling. In addition, some components are designed for one-time use and must be replaced if removed, even if they appear to be in good condition.
Customer understands that Speedy Pit Stop will not be held liable for the above types of component failures, and that in the event of such, we will provide customer with a revised estimate to include the replacement of the failed components.
New replacement parts, whether aftermarket or OEM, may not always perform or fit exactly like the original component. Variations can occur due to differences in molding, mounting points, or tolerances, as well as connector types, wire lengths, pin configurations, sealing surfaces, or alignment tabs. In some cases, parts may arrive with missing or incorrect hardware, slightly altered housing shapes, or changes in internal circuitry that prevent direct installation. When such issues arise, it may be necessary to modify, rework, or adapt the new part to ensure proper fit and function. The customer agrees to pay for any additional time and materials required to complete this process.
While every effort is made to source the highest quality replacement parts, overall part reliability and manufacturing standards have declined in recent years. Some components may only meet minimum commercial requirements or may be unavailable. Warranty coverage can only be extended to the extent that the sourced parts are deemed reliable.
If I cancel services prior to their completion for any reason, a tear down and reassembly fee up to the amount of the above service charge will be applied, depending the vehicle's state of disassembly upon cancellation, plus any replacement parts already installed or necessary for reassembly.
SPS shall not be liable for loss of or damage to the vehicle or its contents resulting from theft, fire, vandalism, weather events, natural disasters, or other causes beyond its reasonable control.
Customer authorizes SPS to operate, move, road test, and otherwise handle the vehicle as reasonably necessary for diagnosis, inspection, verification of repairs, and delivery. All such operation shall be at the customer’s risk.
If additional work is authorized and performed that is not included in the current estimate, all terms and conditions outlined above shall apply equally to such additional work. These terms shall carry over regardless of whether a separate or revised estimate is issued, unless expressly stated otherwise in writing.
Should you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.
Sincerely,
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