When you're getting ready to leave your local auto shop after you've picked up your vehicle following a body repair job, you might feel momentarily anxious about whether you should be tipping. You wouldn't leave your hair salon without tipping, nor would you simply pay the tab at a restaurant after a good meal and walk out the door. Thanking your mechanic is one thing, but the last thing you want to do is have an awkward encounter because you aren't sure if tipping is the norm. Don't fret – here are three things that you should know about tipping your mechanic.

It Never Hurts To Ask In Advance

One of the best ways to avoid any awkwardness around tipping is to ask for confirmation. However, don't make the mistake of asking the mechanic, as this conversation can definitely seem uncomfortable. Instead, call the auto shop before your first to ask whether management has a no-tipping policy or if tipping is permitted. You don't want to give a tip if there's a strict rule against doing so, but if the shop doesn't have such a policy in place, you can be confident in giving a tip if you so desire.

There's A Guideline To Keep In Mind

No one will fault you if you decide not to tip your mechanic. Many auto shop customers take this approach and it's commonplace enough that your mechanic won't view the lack of a tip as insulting. Although it's perfectly acceptable to abstain from tipping your mechanic, there's a guideline that's worth remembering if you feel better tipping to show your appreciation. If your repair bill is less than $500, consider tipping $10 or $20; if the bill is more than $500, tipping $50 is often appropriate. As with any service, the exact amount you tip should be based on factors such as the quality of the job and professionalism.

A Gift Can Work In Lieu Of A Tip

If you'd rather not give a cash tip, think about another way that you can express your gratitude for the mechanic's efforts. If you're happy with the service provided, think about returning to the auto shop the next day with a card of thanks and a small gift. Something as simple as a gift card to a nearby coffee shop or, if you're skilled in the kitchen, a plate of cookies or muffins is an effective way to say thank you.

To learn more, contact an auto body repair shop like Aldrich Auto Body & Repair, Inc.