About Us
Built by a Mechanic, for the People Who Need One
Mechanic First exists because too many people get taken advantage of when their vehicle breaks down. We're here to change that — one honest consultation at a time.
Wayne Godwin — ASE Certified Master Technician
20+ years experience
Why I Started Mechanic First
I'm a mechanic. I've spent a lot of years with my hands dirty, laying under trucks, chasing electrical problems, listening to engines, and figuring out why something isn't doing what it's supposed to do.
And I've learned one thing over and over:
People get screwed when they don't know what they're looking at.
I've gotten countless calls from people who are about to buy a truck, just got handed a ridiculous repair estimate, have a vehicle making a noise they don't understand, or are standing on the side of the road wondering what the hell they should do next.
And most of the time, they don't need someone trying to sell them something. They need somebody who knows what they're talking about.
That's why I built Mechanic First.
I'm not a salesman. I'm not trying to sell you a turbo, an engine, a transmission, or a bunch of parts you may not need. I'm going to give you my honest opinion based on what you show me and what you tell me.
Sometimes I'll tell you it's probably nothing serious.
Sometimes I'll tell you to get it to a shop.
Sometimes I'll tell you to shut it off and don't drive it another mile.
And sometimes, especially when you're looking at a used truck, I'll tell you: "Walk away. I wouldn't buy it."
I'd rather save you from making a $10,000 mistake than sell you a $100 repair.
That's the whole idea behind Mechanic First.
You don't have to know me. You don't have to live near my shop. And you don't have to know the first thing about working on a vehicle.
Before you buy it.
Before you approve the repair.
Before you start throwing parts at it.
Talk to a mechanic first.
That's what I'd do if it were my truck.
— Wayne
Founder, Mechanic First
Credentials & Experience
- ASE Certified Master Technician
- 20+ years hands-on diagnostic and repair experience
- Diesel, gas, and hybrid vehicle expertise
- Pickup trucks, work trucks, RVs, and passenger vehicles
- Former dealership and independent shop experience
- Specialization in pre-purchase inspections and repair verification
Our Mission
Give every vehicle owner access to independent, honest mechanic advice — so they never have to guess, overpay, or get taken advantage of again.
No shop affiliation
Mechanic First is completely independent. We have no relationship with any repair shop, parts supplier, or dealership — which means our advice is never influenced by who profits from your repair.
Real mechanic, not a call center
Every consultation is with an experienced, credentialed mechanic. Not a customer service rep reading from a script. Not an AI. A real person who has turned wrenches for decades.
Straight answers
We tell you what we actually think — even if that means telling you the repair is unnecessary, the price is fair, or the vehicle you're considering is a bad deal. You deserve the truth.
Accessible and affordable
Getting a second opinion shouldn't cost more than the repair itself. Our consultations are priced so that anyone can afford to get the information they need before making a costly decision.
Our commitment
"I will never tell you to approve a repair I wouldn't approve myself."
Every consultation comes with a written summary of the mechanic's assessment. If you're not satisfied with the advice you received, contact us — we'll make it right.
Ready to talk to a real mechanic?
Choose a consultation that fits your situation — or start with a Quick Consultation if you're not sure where to begin.