Avoid getting ripped off at the car repair garage. Things to keep in mind. Part 1.

When you take your car in for a repair, here are a few ideas to avoid getting overcharged.
1. Safety Inspections: Bring it in early and avoid the pressure of having work done to get the sticker on time. You can always take it somewhere else. Maybe even do some work yourself or ask someone you know and trust.
2. Know your vehicle. Have a look underneath with a flashlight. Look under the hood. Look up your problem on the web. It may be less of an issue than you think.
3. Do it yourself if possible. Start with small things, Changing headlight and taillight bulbs, windshield wipers.
4. If the repair list is long, get a printed estimate. Check those parts prices. You may need more time for this as well. But they can always roll your car outside, if need be. You can take that printed estimate to another parts place for a quote. Only get fixed what is really needed. (Sometimes it does make sense to replace an extra part while everything is taken apart. )
One other idea regarding safety inspection: Perhaps not all your repairs are required for the safety check. Some garages hit you with everything wrong with your vehicle, but some are things you can still live with and are not a safety issue, (like a squeaky belt). My slightly tired rear springs will still pass the safety check.
5. If you drive an older vehicle, (I know it sounds funny) but try to avoid the need to fix every little noise or clunk. Some things are cheaper to live with or are not worth the cost of repair, like a slight exhaust noise or a rattle in the door or a vibration that is not getting worse.
6. This one is a bit obvious, but If you are not happy with a garage, don't go back. Check out the next few garages before you have a problem repaired. Ask other people where they have had a good repair experience.