Business

Auto repair shops offer 'no contact appointments' to protect against spreading coronavirus

Like many other car repair shops, Swedish Performance and Parts in Garner is offering a "no contact appointment." Mechanics pick up the customer's car, then drop it back off with them. This prevents dozens of customers from coming to and from the shop.

Posted Updated

By
Nia Harden
, WRAL reporter

Many people are wondering about what will happen if their car breaks down during a stay-at-home order. Is it possible to practice social distancing while also having routine repairs done?

Essential businesses like auto repair shops are staying open, and they're finding new ways to limit the contact mechanics have with customers.

Swedish Performance and Parts in Garner is offering a "no contact appointment," and other car shops are doing the same. Mechanics pick up the customer's car, then drop it back off with them. This prevents dozens of customers from coming to and from the shop.

Owners Kevin and Jennifer Mulcahy said many of their clients are healthcare providers and other essential workers, who rely on having a working vehicle to get to and from work. That's one major reason why repair shops have to stay open.

Likewise, vehicles with registration up for renewal still need to get inspected, officials said. If a customer is at high risk for COVID-19, someone can drop off the vehicle in their place as long as they have the current registration card for the vehicle.

Then, customers can renew their tags online or by mail as usual.

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