🛠️ What Your Mechanic Says vs. What They Actually Mean (A Translation Guide for Canadians)

Ever felt like your mechanic was speaking a different language? Don’t worry — you’re not imagining it. Canadian mechanics have a secret code that can turn “simple advice” into a $500 bill.

Here’s your insider’s translation guide so you know exactly what your mechanic is really saying…

🔧 “It’s an older car, things happen”

Translation:

"I have no idea what that sound is, but I'm going to charge you $200 to 'look' at it."

Translation notes: Expect vague diagnoses and unexpected line items on your invoice. Older cars are a goldmine for creative billing.

🔧 “We should keep an eye on this”

Translation:

"It’s fine for now, but I’m already mentally spending the $800 you’ll pay me next month."

Translation notes: That minor rattle or oil drip will likely come back to haunt you — and your wallet.

🔧 “That’s a ‘Dealer-Only’ part”

Translation:

"I hope you have a second mortgage on your house."

Translation notes: Dealer-only parts aren’t just pricey — they’re often a sneaky way to upsell you on labor costs.

🔧 “It’ll be fine for a few more miles”

Translation:

"I’m buying myself some extra time before I see you again."

Translation notes: Great for procrastinating, but not for your timing belt.

🔧 “We noticed some wear and tear”

Translation:

"We’re going to suggest five things you didn’t know needed replacing."

Translation notes: Expect recommendations that make your car sound like it’s a few weeks away from total collapse.

🔧 “Your car is unique”

Translation:

"Parts are expensive, rare, and I might have to order them from the other side of the country."

Translation notes: Time + money = “unique” indeed.

🔧 Why This Matters

Understanding your mechanic’s secret language helps you:

• Spot unnecessary upsells
• Avoid paying for vague diagnoses
• Make more informed repair decisions

🛠️ Final Thought

Mechanics are just like any other Canadian professional — they have their own lingo. Now that you speak “mechanic,” you can navigate the repair shop confidently, laugh at the absurdity, and maybe save a few bucks along the way.