If you remember one habit from this page, make it this: no work without a number you have seen. Not a vibe, not “around this much,” not “we will try to keep it reasonable.” A number, split into labour and parts, confirmed before the bonnet stay goes up. Relatim is built around that moment because it is the moment most of the industry skips.
Scheduled service is easy to quote
Oil, filters, a basic inspection — a competent mechanic can price this from the vehicle and the interval. If they cannot, they are not ready to take the job. Ask what is included. A “service” that is only oil is a different product from one that includes brake fluid and a cabin filter. Compare those lists, not the totals. How Relatim helps you save is mostly this step done early.
Diagnosis is a different quote
A grinding noise, a flashing light, weak AC, a bike that starts only when it wants to — nobody honest can price the repair before they have found the cause. What they can price is the diagnosis: time, a scan if needed, a road test. Treat “we will see once we open it” as acceptable only when it comes with a call before any spend. Treat a firm repair price given from a one-line WhatsApp as a reason to slow down, not speed up.
The three-line estimate
- Labour — hours or a flat job rate, named.
- Consumables — oil spec and quantity, filters, fluids.
- Parts — only what is worn, with a brand or grade if it changes the price.
If a quote cannot be written in those three lines, it is not finished. You are allowed to wait until it is. What transparency means is this list in slower words.
When the number should be allowed to move
Corrosion that was hidden, a second failed component that only shows up under load, a part that is the wrong spec when it arrives. All of those can change a bill. The rule is not “the first number is sacred.” The rule is “the next number needs your yes.” That is cost confirmation, and it is how Relatim expects the mechanic to work.
Get the quote without driving across town
Send the vehicle, the job or the symptom, and your area. A photo of the cluster or the service sticker helps. Start from Get Free Quote or the homepage. For a breakdown where the vehicle cannot move, skip the estimate theatre and share a live location on roadside assistance — safety first, then the number for whatever fix is possible on the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a mechanic quote a repair without seeing the car?
They can quote a scheduled service. For a noise or a warning light they should quote the diagnosis, then the repair once the cause is found. A firm repair price sight-unseen is usually a placeholder.
What if I am already at the workshop?
Ask for the estimate before they take the keys. If they cannot give one, you can still leave. Relatim's process is the same conversation, just earlier — on WhatsApp, before you travel.
Does Relatim charge for the quote?
No. Checking availability and getting the mechanic to confirm a number costs you nothing. You pay the mechanic for approved work only.