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 How
to Communicate for Better Automotive Service
Today's cars, light trucks, and sport-utility vehicles are high-tech
marvels with digital dashboards, oxygen sensors, electronic computers,
unibody construction, and more. They run better, longer, and more
efficiently than models of years past.
But when it comes to repairs, some things stay the same.
Whatever type of repair facility you patronize--dealership, service
station, independent garage, specialty shop, or a national franchise--good
communication between the customer and the shop is vital.
The following tips should help you along the way:
Do your homework before
taking your vehicle in for repairs or service.
Read the owner's manual to learn about the vehicle's
systems and components.
Follow the recommended service schedules.
Keep a log of all repairs and service.
When you think about it, you know your
car better than anyone else. You drive it every day and know how it
feels and sounds when everything is right. So don't ignore its warning
signals.
Use all of your senses to inspect your car frequently.
Check for:
- Unusual sounds, odors, drips, leaks, smoke, warning lights, gauge
readings.
- Changes in acceleration, engine performance, gas mileage, fluid
levels.
- Worn tires, belts, hoses.
- Problems in handling, braking, steering,vibrations.
- Note when the problem occurs.
- Is it constant or periodic?
- When the vehicle is cold or after the engine has warmed up?
- At all speeds? Only under acceleration? During braking? When shifting?
- When did the problem first start?
Professionally run repair establishments
have always recognized the importance of communications in automotive
repairs.
Once you you are at the
repair establishment, communicate your findings.
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Be prepared to describe the symptoms. (In larger
shops you'll probably speak with a service writer/service manager
rather than with the technician directly.)
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Carry a written list of the symptoms that you
can give to the technician or service manager.
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Resist the temptation to suggest a specific course
of repair. Just as you would with your physician, tell where it
hurts and how long it's been that way, but let the technician
diagnose and recommend a remedy.
Stay involved. . . Ask questions.
- Ask as many questions as you need. Do not be embarrassed to
request lay definitions.
- Don't rush the service writer or technician to make an on-the-spot diagnosis.
Ask to be called and apprised of the problem, course of action, and costs
before work begins.
- Before you leave, be sure you understand all shop policies regarding labor
rates, guarantees, and acceptable methods of payment.
- Leave a telephone number where you can be called.
Information courtesy of ASE and Mandrik Auto Repair
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