No, Ricks Auto Solutions is not a physical auto repair shop, and we no longer perform hands-on vehicle repairs. We are an automotive consulting service that provides expert advice, information, and guidance remotely.

 It's simple!

1. Browse our services ("Repair Order Review" or "Pocket Tech") on the website.
2. Choose the specific tier or package that best fits your needs.
3. Complete the secure checkout process.
4. You'll receive instructions on what information to provide (e.g., via email or a dedicated form), including details about your vehicle, the issue, and any relevant documents (like estimates or diagnostic codes).
5. Once we receive your information, we'll begin working on your request based on the service purchased.

 This depends on the service. Upon purchase, we will email you the necessary forms needed for review, but generally includes:

• Vehicle Information: Year, Make, Model, Engine Size, and sometimes VIN.
• For Repair Order Review: The estimate or repair order document you want reviewed, a description of the issue, and your concerns.
• For Pocket Tech: Description of symptoms, any OBD-II codes pulled, the specific repair you want to attempt (for Tiers 3 & 4).
• Clear photos or videos can sometimes be helpful.

 We strive to respond promptly.

• For consultations (Tier 1 services), we aim to schedule them within 1-2 business days.
• For estimate reviews or repair roadmap requests (Tier 2 & 3), please allow 24-48 business hours after we receive all necessary information.
• Live video support (Tier 4) needs to be scheduled in advance based on mutual availability.

Each service package clearly outlines what's included. If you need further assistance beyond the scope of the purchased service, you may need to purchase additional consultation time or upgrade your service tier. Feel free to ask!

 We aim for customer satisfaction. If you are unsatisfied with a consultation, please let us know promptly. Due to the nature of information-based services, refunds are typically not issued once a review, report, repair roadmap, or significant consultation time has been delivered. Please review our full Terms of Service or contact us at rick@ricksautosolutions.com for details.

While we cannot guarantee specific savings, our goal is to provide you with expert analysis and options. Understanding your estimate, identifying potentially unnecessary work, assessing fair pricing, and knowing your options can often lead to significant savings and help you make informed decisions.

No. Our review is based on the documentation you provide and our expertise. It's a valuable remote analysis. A second opinion from another repair shop involves a hands-on physical inspection of your vehicle, which may reveal different findings. Our service complements, but doesn't replace, a physical inspection when needed.

Our assessment provides you with information and talking points. Shops may have different diagnostic approaches or justifications. We can help you understand their perspective and formulate clarifying questions. If you choose our advocacy tier, we can communicate with the shop on your behalf to discuss discrepancies, but we cannot force them to agree or change their stance.

No, we do not have the authority to compel a repair facility to take specific actions. Our role is to provide you with expert information, options and (in higher tiers) facilitate communication or draft correspondence on your behalf to support your position.

 No. Ricks Auto Solutions provides automotive technical advice and consultation only. We do not provide legal advice or representation. If you have a legal dispute with a repair facility, please consult a qualified attorney.

Yes, for the most part. We have access to extensive professional databases covering a vast range of makes and models. However, extremely rare vehicles, heavily modified vehicles, or certain highly complex procedures (like internal transmission work) might be outside the scope of readily available data or suitable for remote DIY guidance. If you have a very unusual request, please contact us first at rick@ricksautosolutions.com 

 The Tier 3 Roadmap provides the instructions. If you anticipate needing real-time help or troubleshooting while you work, our Tier 4 Live DIY Video Support service is designed for exactly that. It can be purchased upfront with the Roadmap or potentially added later (subject to scheduling availability).

 No. DIY success depends heavily on your mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, having the correct tools, the quality of parts used, following instructions precisely, and unforeseen complications with your specific vehicle. We provide guidance and information, but the execution and outcome are your responsibility.

 Auto repair involves significant safety risks. We provide instructions and emphasize safety, but you are solely responsible for your safety and the decision to perform the work. Our guidance does not override the inherent dangers. Please read our full Safety Warnings and Disclaimers. If you are ever uncomfortable or unsure, STOP and seek professional help.