40% fear the mechanic more than the dentist

14 February 2007

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Original content:

<div class="rxbodyfield" xmlns:o="urn:www.microsoft.com/office" xmlns:st1="urn:www.microsoft.com/smarttags" xmlns:st2="urn:www.microsoft.com/smarttags2" xmlns:w="urn:www.microsoft.com/word" xmlns:x="urn:www.microsoft.com/excel"><p>Four in ten motorists dread going to see their mechanic more than a visit to the dentists because they are afraid of being ripped off, according to research carried out by Direct Line.</p><p>Approximately a quarter of those asked were anxious about being swindled by mechanics, with 57% of motorists believing that if they appear not to understand what a mechanic is saying to them they may agree to unnecessary work.</p><p>Distrust among drivers of those who fix their cars runs deeper still, with over 20% stating that they didn&#39;t trust garages to only perform necessary procedures and nearly a quarter of the 2,140 participants believing that they could be ripped off because they don&#39;t understand modern car technology.</p><p>Emma Holyer, Direct Line&#39;s motor spokesperson, said that motorists&#39; fear of mechanics was generally unwarranted as most mechanics are used to being asked to explain the more technical terms. </p><p>&quot;It is important that drivers make sure their vehicle is serviced regularly by a mechanic to prevent an accident or being stranded in a breakdown,&quot; Ms Holyer urged. Accidents can affect consumers&#39; car insurance premiums as well as causing costly repair bills.</p><p>&quot;We would advise all motorists to shop around and ask friends and family for advice in finding a reputable and reliable garage before getting any work done on your vehicle.&quot;</p><p>She also suggested that nervous drivers should request a quote broken down by work that needs to be carried out so that they can ensure that they know what they&#39;re paying for.</p><p>uSwitch.com has plenty of information on <a href="http://www.uswitch.com/Car-Insurance/Car-Insurance-In-The-UK.html">car insurance in the UK and can also help you find the right deal. Use our <a href="http://www.uswitch.com/Car- Insurance/Index.aspx">car insurance calculator to find yourself a great deal and apply online today.</p></div>