Frequently Asked Questions

Secane Auto and Truck Works
610-328-9183
WHO AM I?

I understand more electrical systems than the man
who wired your home.

The systems that I work on,
exceed Verizon or Comcast.

I understand computerized electronics and more are coming yet.

The systems that I work on,
exceed your TV set.

I work on hundreds of fuel systems that I understand and meter.
Each is more complicated than your furnace or water heater.

When it comes to refrigeration,
the systems that I know
are constantly changing,
yet I can make them go.

Compare me to your doctor whose prices make mine meager.
You admire and revere him and pay his bill with vigor.
No guarantee he gives you, you pay for what you get.
Then come back and pay again if he hasn't fixed you yet.

The human body hasn't changed in twenty million years,
and everybody stays the same 
from our ankles to our ears.

The “tool” I use to do all this won't get lost, wear out or break.

I'm your trained AUTO TECHNICIAN!
And the “tool” of which I speak,
is KNOWLEDGE!
    
Dear Ann Landers:

I am a professional auto technician and have been repairing cars for over 30 years.  During this time, I have purchased over $60,000 worth of tools, attended hundreds of hours of classes to stay current with technology and damaged my body by bending it in ways Mother Nature never intended.  Why am I telling you this?  Because I am tired of auto mechanics being the bad guys.  People don't realize that the amount they pay for auto repairs covers not only my costs, but my boss' overhead.  I pay my own health insurance and work 60-hour weeks.  I do not get paid for holidays.  I attract customers because I have expertise in identifying problems and fixing them.  Please don't be mad at me when your tune-up costs $300 or more.  I am not the one who made your car so complicated that it takes computers and flow charts to check the lights.  I am not the one who bought a car that requires a $14 spark plug.  I am not the one who bought a fancy foreign model that needs to get parts shipped from England, Germany and France.  People should investigate maintenance cost before they buy a new car.  Reviews of a car's performance based on road tests do not give the whole picture.

So, Ann, that is why I'm telling you this. So you can tell them, they listen to you.  Please tell them, Ann.

                                                                                                                          - Auto Technician in Germantown, MD.


Dear Technician:
You told them yourself and your admonition is based on many years of professional experience.  Thank you for speaking for auto mechanics everywhere.   I'm sure you have their eternal gratitude.

​                                                                                           - Ann
619 South Ave, Secane, PA  19018
Hours:
Monday - Friday:  8:00am - 5:30pm

Saturday:            8:00am - 12:00pm

Sunday:              Closed
Do I Need An Appointment?

Most work is done by appointment.  We do accept walk-ins, however, those vehicles would need to be dropped off and they will be placed in the schedule after the vehicles with an appointment.  We will make every effort to complete the repairs as soon as possible.
How Long Will It Take?

The amount of time required to repair your car will vary depending on the nature of the repair.  We are committed to completing your vehicle and returning it to you in a reasonable amount of time.
Can I Wait For The Repair?

We do have a waiting area for those who choose to wait for their vehicle.  Most general maintenance and minor repairs can be done in a short amount of time.  Your service advisor can explain the time required for your specific service need.
Can You Drive Me Home If I Drop Off My Vehicle?

Yes, we can arrange to drop you off anywhere nearby.  Advance notice will help to insure a timely schedule.  We'll be sure to give you a call as soon as we've looked at your vehicle.
Do You Supply Rental Cars?

Unfortunately, no.  But many of our customers use Enterprise Rent-A-Car located at 436 Baltimore Pike, Springfield, PA.  They will arrange to pick you up at our shop, or we can arrange to drop you off at Enterprise.
Do You Have Towing Available?

Yes, we can arrange towing by a professional licensed, insured and bonded tow company.  Should you need your vehicle towed after-hours, please call Accurate Towing at 610-908-2424.
What Types Of Vehicles Do You Work On?

All of them!  Whether you own a '68 Beetle or a 2012 Chevy we're the shop for you.  Our staff has experience with virtually every make and model of car, truck, and van.  If it's broke, we can fix it.
What Kind Of Parts Do You Use?

We only use high quality name brand parts to repair and maintain your vehicle.  Not taking shortcuts now, will save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
If I Have You Work On My New Vehicle, Will It Void My Warranty?

All new vehicle warranties remain in effect when we service your vehicle.  This means if we change your oil, tune your vehicle up, or perform any other routine automotive maintenance on your vehicle your warranty is unaffected.  This way you can avoid the high dealer prices on routine maintenance, while still having the peace of mind that comes from the new car warranty.
Can You Tell Me How Much A Repair Will Cost Before Looking At My Vehicle?

Many minor repair and maintenance costs can be quoted with a certain level of accuracy.  However, for most repairs it is very difficult to determine exact cost.  Variables in the severity of the failure and unforeseen additional parts will effect the overall cost as well as time needed to diagnose complicated problems.  Generally a rough estimate or price range will be given.  Then, once the vehicle is inspected and the problem is found by our technicians, your service advisor will inform you of the outcome and give you a more accurate estimate.
When Is Payment Expected?

Generally payment is not expected until after service is rendered.  You may be asked to pay in advance for a special order item when your vehicle is not in our possession.
Do You Offer Financing?

In most cases payment is due in full after repairs have been completed.
Financing is available* through our CarCareONE credit card offered by GE Capital.  Features of the CarCareONE credit card include:
  • Instant Credit Available*
  • Simple Credit Application Process
  • New Purchasing Power Without Using Your Major Credit Cards
  • Financing Promotions* Starting With 6-Month Interest Free (on invoices of $299 and up)
  • Low Minimum Monthly Payments
  • Online Account Management

*Subject to credit approval
How Can I Pay?

Cash, Debit, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and CarCareONE.  Local checks (with ID) are accepted, however, please be advised that there will be a $30 fee for any checks returned as NSF.
Do You Have After-Hours Drop Off?

We sure do.  There is a key drop located right next to our office door.  Simply print and complete this form, include it with your key and any other required documents in an envelope, then drop it straight into our building.
Click Here to read some commonly asked vehicle related questions.