Auto repair is something most of us regard with fear and dread. After all, what other area of life can you say you either have experience or know someone who has experienced an auto repair horror story?
But it doesn't have to be that way.
As you may know, most of these problems happen because simple communication breakdowns have come between the technician and the driver.
The importance of being informed:
With the hectic pace of life these days its understandable why you wouldn't or couldn't spend a lot of time learning about your car. Nor should you have too. After all, this is why we have the auto service and repair industry!
But complete lack of knowledge has allowed unscrupulous mechanics to laugh all the way to the bank.
For those of us who have next to zero knowledge we are opening the doors to disaster and much, much higher costs.
Even a basic understanding of how your vehicle operates will provide you with the tools to ask the right questions to get the right answers.
Does your mechanic explain what needs to be done in a language YOU understand?
Many Auto Repair Pros are caught up in the fast-paced, day-to-day work and frequently feel they don't have the time to fully explain what is wrong. Make them tell you. And keep asking until you get it.
Never feel like you're asking a stupid question. It is their job to inform you, and no question is ever stupid. In fact, if you ask something and they act like you're an idiot, take your car elsewhere. Frequently a response like this is an indication of deeper problems.
When someone treats you poorly, or refuses to explain exactly what is going on, you're probably dealing with someone who does not respect you. If that's the case... it's time to move along. Politely ask for your keys and go elsewhere. Or, call someone you trust to help.
Also remember to ask for alternatives to high dollar jobs. You might just be surprised to learn you can save over money AND fix the problem!
Every now and then, there may be a temporary or seasonal fix to what is going on. Don't forget to ask for details on any applicable warranties.
Does your mechanic show you where the trouble is on your vehicle?
Remember "show and tell" from grade school? This is sort of the grown up version of that old game.
If your mechanic can show, for example, the cracks in your belts, that means they are getting old and about due for a swap-out. Pretty simple.
However, sometimes seeing the problem with your eyes can be tricky. In cases like this, you must demand clear communication.
We've had stories of technicians who are very involved in the explanation process, even down to having their customers step into the shop so they can see what the diagnostic equipment is reading.
This might be over kill. Check engine light diagnostics are all numbers based, and will mean next to nothing to the average person. Frequently, the same goes for electrical system troubleshooting.
So if what's wrong with your car can't be seen with the naked eye make sure you're getting a solid explanation. If it can be seen... make sure you see it.
As the old saying goes: Seeing is believing!
Do you trust your mechanic?
Trust is the glue that holds us all together in this crazy, mixed up world! Auto repair without trust is pretty horrible. If you trust your mechanic then you are doing just fine.
Trusting someone to do a quality job and not gouge us on the price (especially if we have been taken before) can be pretty tough.
That's why they come out of that back room, wiping their hands on a rag, and start listing the problems, we get apprehensive.
The top 2 quick fixes for lack of trust are:
#1: Communication. This above all others is where you will find yourself either loving the technician you use or fleeing the shop as fast as you can. Ask questions; make sure the person answers them to YOUR satisfaction.
#2: Education. Less than an inch below communication is the education you give yourself about the vehicle you drive. When you are informed, you know what questions to ask and know when the fees are too high or the work substandard. |
