How to Find a Reliable Mechanic in Perth

A reliable mechanic is one of the most valuable people to have in your contacts. Finding one takes a bit of upfront effort — but once you've found a workshop you trust, you'll save money and avoid a lot of stress over the years. Here's how to find a good one in Perth.

Check Their Licence

All motor vehicle repair businesses in WA must be licensed under the Motor Vehicle Repairers Act 2003. You can check any mechanic's licence through the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DEMIRS) public register. A current licence is the minimum requirement — it's not a guarantee of quality, but the absence of one is a red flag.

Ask Friends and Neighbours

Word of mouth is still the best way to find a mechanic in Perth. Ask people who drive similar vehicles — a friend who owns the same make of car as you will have particularly relevant experience. Local Facebook community groups for your suburb are also a reliable source of honest recommendations.

Read Google Reviews — Carefully

Look for mechanics with 40+ reviews and a rating above 4.3. Read the 3-star reviews — these are often the most honest assessments. Pay attention to how the business responds to negative reviews. A defensive or dismissive response tells you a lot. Suspicious signs: all 5-star reviews posted within a short period, reviews with no detail.

Get a Written Quote Before They Start

Any reputable Perth mechanic will give you a written quote before commencing work. Under WA law, a repairer must not charge more than the quoted price without your approval. If they call you mid-job to report additional work needed, ask for the new cost before authorising. You're entitled to get a second opinion on any unquoted additional work.

Start Small

If you're trying a new mechanic, start with a minor service rather than a major repair. This lets you assess their communication, transparency, and workmanship before entrusting them with a more significant job.