Most drivers only see their mechanic when something goes wrong, a strange sound under the hood, a warning light on the dash, or a service reminder that’s long overdue. But behind every oil change, brake job, and engine diagnosis is a team of highly skilled professionals who keep our lives moving.
These are the people who stay late to finish a job, dig into difficult diagnostics that no one else can figure out, and work through every kind of weather to make sure your vehicle is safe and reliable.
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They don’t just fix problems, they prevent them. They answer your questions, explain what those confusing codes mean, and in many cases, help you avoid future breakdowns before they happen. Their work is technical, physical, and often underappreciated.
Automotive Service Professionals Day on June 12 is more than just a calendar note—it’s a powerful reminder to stay proactive about car care awareness.
To honor the people behind the wrenches and work boots, we visited Black Horse Automotive and spoke with their team about the top things they wish drivers knew before walking into the shop.
What they shared wasn’t just helpful, it was real, practical advice every vehicle owner should hear. Whether you’re a brand-new driver or someone who’s been behind the wheel for years, this insight from the pros might just save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
Preventative Maintenance Isn’t Optional — It’s Everything
“One thing to always note before coming in — make sure your service is up to date and accurate. You’re doing everything on time, when services are needed. That’s probably the number one most important thing to avoid coming into the shop every single day. Preventative maintenance. Don’t wait till it breaks.”
— Jake, Service Coordinator at Black Horse Automotive
It’s easy to treat car maintenance like a chore, but ignoring routine car service is the fastest way to turn a small issue into a major repair. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake checks, and other manufacturer-recommended services help prevent costly surprises.
What Should Regular Car Maintenance Be?
It’s the basics done right: fluid checks, brake inspections, and staying on top of your service intervals.
If you wait until something breaks, it usually means longer shop time, more money, and more stress. Take it from the pros: maintenance is cheaper than repairs — every single time.
Be Prepared — Details Make the Difference
“Know what’s wrong with your car, when your last service was done, and clear, accurate descriptions of the issues you’re having. History of past services done on the car, a clear understanding of what repairs actually entail — that’s what helps us help you.”
— Jake, Service Coordinator at Black Horse Automotive
Describing a problem as “weird” or “it just doesn’t feel right” isn’t much to go on. Mechanics rely on information: When did the noise start? Does it happen at a certain speed? Did the problem come on suddenly, or has it gotten worse over time?
And most importantly — bring your service history. Knowing what’s already been done (or skipped) gives the shop a huge head start in figuring out what your car actually needs.
Repairs Take Time — And That’s a Good Thing
“Understanding what a repair actually entails — and how long it normally takes — is really important. Most customers think it should only take five minutes.”
— Miguel, General Manager at Black Horse Automotive
In reality, most repairs aren’t instant. Diagnosing a complex issue takes time. Parts need to be ordered. Technicians need to test, verify, and ensure the fix works before handing the keys back.
Read more: How to Avoid Accidents: Essential Mechanic Tips for Safety
While it’s tempting to expect fast service, quick doesn’t always mean quality. The best shops prioritize safety and precision over speed, and trust us, you want them to.
Bonus Advice for New Drivers
“The number one thing we always tell new drivers is stay off of your cell phone.”
— Jake, Service Coordinator at Black Horse Automotive
That’s straight from the source. It might not be a repair tip, but it’s the kind of advice that keeps you from needing one in the first place.
Appreciating the People Who Keep Us Moving
Mechanics do far more than fix cars. They protect your investment, keep your family safe, and help you stay on the road without headaches.
So, whether it’s June 12 or any other day, a little appreciation goes a long way. The next time you visit your local shop, show up with your records ready, give a detailed description, and don’t take that routine service for granted.
And if you need help registering or titling a vehicle — especially if it’s out-of-state, custom, or built for off-road — our team at Dirt Legal has your back.
We handle the paperwork so your mechanic can handle the rest.
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