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 Informed Consumers Know How To 'Talk the Talk' At Automotive Shops
Cars
have gone high-tech, but old-fashioned communication still important
in repair process.
(ARA) - 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 customer and shop is vital.
Automotive technicians need to
understand thousands of pages of technical text; fortunately your
required reading is much less.
The following tips from the nonprofit
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) 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, odours, 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?
Once you are at the repair
establishment, communicate your findings. 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.)
Carry a written list of the symptoms
that you can give to the technician or service manager. 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
simple definitions of technical terms.
Professionally run repair
establishments have always recognized the importance of two-way
communications in automotive repairs.
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 labour rates, guarantees, and
acceptable methods of payment.
Leave a telephone number where you can
be called.
The National Institute for Automotive
Service Excellence (ASE) was founded in 1972 as a nonprofit,
independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of
automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and
certification of automotive technicians. ASE-certified technicians
wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials
listing their exact area(s) of certification. Their employers often
display the blue and white ASE sign.
Visit www.asecert.org for more information.
Courtesy of ARA Content |
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