How many times have you heard friends or family recounting tales of the local rip off mechanic taking them for a ride and coming out with empty pockets and a at the end of the experience? We've put together some tips that will hopefully save you some money and keep you out of trouble.

1. Find a garage where friends or relatives have received a good service - recommendations are priceless and finding a good mechanic is like gold dust. Find a mechanic or garage you feel happy with BEFORE your car needs a service - this will save stressing about it later. 2. Shop around for the best price. That VW garage could be twice the price of Mike the mechanic around the corner. 3. Put whatever work you need doing down on paper and give it to the mechanic before they start. Keep a copy for yourself too. 4. When you get a quote - make sure the price includes VAT, all parts and labour. Some dealers may add these later on top of what you think is the final bill.