Getting your car repaired, or even just having routine maintenance done can be a downright hassle. You have to schedule the repair, make sure that you have enough time to get your car to the shop, and then figure out a way to get home and back to pick it up. Considering the type of technology that we have today, can you pay a mechanic to come to your home or work and take care of your car’s maintenance and repairs?

Can a car mechanic come to my house?

Yes! Companies like Your Mechanic and Wrench offer a mobile mechanic service where full-time ASE-Certified mechanics show up to your home or work and fix your car. According to both websites, there is a slew of services that their mechanics offer – from oil changes to heavier repairs. They’ll even diagnose your car if it doesn’t start.

To get a repair started with either company, you’ll need to request an appointment and fill out the required vehicle information including any issues that your car is experiencing. Within seconds, the site will generate a detailed price quote that shows you the cost of the parts and labor and when you can schedule an appointment. After that, it’s as simple as making the appointment and waiting for the mechanic to work on your car.

Mobile mechanics are convenient, but there are a few caveats

While the highlight of hiring a mobile mechanic is the convenience of having your car worked on at your house or place of work — which can save you a lot of time – it can cost more than the typical brick-and-mortar auto shop. For example, I received a quote from both sites regarding a simple oil change for my 2008 Honda S2000. Your Mechanic quoted me $96 while Wrench quoted me $133 for the job. Keep in mind that both places use generic parts and not OEM ones like the dealership.

Both prices aren’t terrible, considering there’s the added convenience of not having to leave my house, however, I only paid $75 at my local mechanic for the same job and the same generic parts. Additionally, I called my local Honda dealership and they quoted me $70 (plus tax) for an oil change, which utilizes an OEM Honda oil filter. As we can see, convenience can cost money.

Additionally, the editors at CNET recently reported on their experience with Your Mechanic and had good things to say about the service all around. However, they also warned readers that the mobile mechanic needs a flat surface to work on in order to safely jack up the car. You may also need to get clearance from the office that your work at or your landlord to ensure that it’s OK for a mechanic to work your car. After all, almost any type of auto mechanic work will bring dirt, grime, and possible oil stains with it.

Is it worth it to call a mobile mechanic?

Yes, considering the time that you’ll save. Just remember that it’s possible you could pay more for whatever services you need as compared to a regular auto shop, but the time and convenience could be worth it. Sitting at home or staying productive at work is much better time spent than sitting in a dealership waiting room.