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 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 if 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 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 and 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 has warmed up?
• At all speeds? Only under acceleration? During braking? When shifting?
• When did the problem first start?
Professional repair establishments have always recognized the importance of communications in automotive repairs.
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 directly with the technician.)
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 you with your physician, tell where it hurts and how long it's been that way, but let the technician diagnose and recommend a remedy.
Information courtesy of the National Institute for Automative Service Excellence (ASE).
