Glove Box Tips from Ted the Technician
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 communications between
customer and
shop is vital.
The following tips should help you along
the way:
Do your homework before taking your vehicle
in for repairs or
service.
Today's technician must understand thousands
of pages of
technical text. Fortunately, your required reading
is much
less.
* 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 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 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.
A Word about ASE
Perhaps years ago, a shade-tree mechanic
whose only
credentials were a tool box and busted knuckles
was enough.
But today's quality-conscious consumers demand
more.
The independent, non-profit National Institute
for
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) conducts the
only
industry-wide, national certification program
for automotive
technicians.
Consumers benefit from ASE's certification
program since
it takes much of the guesswork out of finding
a competent
technicians.
ASE certifies the competency of individual
technicians
through a series of standardized specialty exams
(brakes,
transmissions, engine repair, ect.)
ASE
CERTIFIED
We employ technicians certified by the
National institute
for AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE.
Let us show you their credentials
Certified technicians are issued pocket
credentials
listing their area(s) of expertise and usually
wear blue and
white ASE shoulder insignia, while employers often
post the ASE
sign on the premises. There are over a quarter
million ASE
technicians at work in every type of repair facility.
This publication has been reviewed by
the Environmental
Protection Agency. Distribution of this document
does not
constitute or imply EPA endorsement of any ASE
service.
National Institute for
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE
13505 Dulles Technology Dr.
Herndon, VA 22071
Don't Leave It To Chance!
Choosing the Right Repair Shop
for Your Vehicle
Glove Box Tips from
Ted the Technician
EPA
National Institute
for
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE
Choosing the Right Repair Shop
No matter what you drive--sports car,
family sedan,
pick-up, or mini-van, when you go in for repairs
or service,
you want the job done right. The following advice
should take
much of the guesswork out of finding a good repair
establishment.
I. Preliminaries
Don't just drop your vehicle off at the nearest
establishment
and hope for the best. That's not choosing a shop,
that's
merely gambling.
* Read your owner's manual to become familiar
with your
vehicle and follow the manufacturer's suggested
service
schedule.
* Start shopping for a repair facility before
you need one;
you can make better decisions when you are
not rushed or
in a panic.
* Ask friends and associates for their recommendations.
Even
in this high-tech era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth
reputation is still valuable.
* Check with your local consumer organization
regarding the
reputation of the shop in question.
* If possible, arrange for alternate transportation
in
advance so you will not feel forced to choose
a facility
solely on the basis of location.
Once you choose a repair shop, start off with
a minor job; if
you are pleased, trust them with more complicated
repairs later
II. At the Shop
* Look for a neat, well-organized facility,
with vehicles in
the parking lot equal in value to your own
and modern
equipment in the service bays.
* Professionally run establishments will
have a courteous,
helpful staff. The service writer should
be willing to
answer all of your questions.
* Feel free to ask for the names of a few
customers. Call
them.
* All policies (labor rates, guarantees,
methods of payment,
etc.) should be posted and/or explained to
your
satisfaction.
* Ask if the shop customarily handles your
vehicle make and
model. Some facilities specialize.
* Ask if the shop usually does your type
of repair,
especially if you need major work.
* Look for signs of professionalism in the
customer service
area: civic and community service awards,
membership in
the Better Business Bureau, AAA-Approved
Auto Repair
status, customer service awards.
The backbone of any shop is the competence
of the technicians.
* Look for evidence of qualified technicians,
such as trade
school diplomas, certificates of advanced
course work, and
ASE certifications--a national standard of
technician
competence.
III. Follow-Up
* Keep good records; keep all paperwork.
* Reward good service with repeat business.
It is mutually
beneficial to you and the shop owner to establish
a
relationship.
* If the service was not all you expected,
don't rush to
another shop. Discuss the problem with the
service manager
or owner. Give the business a chance to resolve
the
problem. Reputable shops value customer feedback
and will
make a sincere effort to keep your business.
A Word about ASE
Perhaps years ago, a shade-tree mechanic
whose only
credentials were a tool box and busted knuckles
was enough.
But today's quality-conscious consumers demand
more.
The independent, non-profit National Institute
for
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) conducts the
only
industry-wide, national certification program
for automotive
technicians.
Consumers benefit from ASE's certification
program since
it takes much of the guesswork out of finding
a competent
technicians.
ASE certifies the competency of individual
technicians
through a series of standardized specialty exams
(brakes,
transmissions, engine repair, ect.)
ASE
CERTIFIED
We employ technicians certified by the
National institute
for AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE.
Let us show you their credentials
Certified technicians are issued pocket
credentials
listing their area(s) of expertise and usually
wear blue and
white ASE shoulder insignia, while employers often
post the ASE
sign on the premises. There are over a quarter
million ASE
technicians at work in every type of repair facility.
This publication has been reviewed by
the Environmental
Protection Agency. Distribution of this document
does not
constitute or imply EPA endorsement of any ASE
service.
National Institute for
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE
13505 Dulles Technology Dr.
Herndon, VA 22071
Don't Get Stuck Out
In The Cold
Getting Your Vehicle Ready
for Winter
Glove Box Tips from Ted the
Technician
EPA
National Institute
for
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE
Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter
Mechanical failure--an inconvenience any
time it
occurs--can be deadly in the winter. Preventive
maintenance is
a must. Besides, a well maintained vehicle is
more enjoyable to
drive, will last longer, and could command a higher
resale
price.
Some of the following tips can be performed
by any
do-it-yourselfer; others require the skilled hands
of an auto
technician.
First things first. Read your owner's manual
and follow the
manufacturer's recommended service schedules.
* Engine Performance--Get engine driveability
problems (hard
starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished
power, etc.)
corrected at a good repairshop. Cold weather
makes
existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters--air,
fuel,
PCV, etc.
* Fuel--Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in
your tank once a
month to help keep moisture from freezing
in the fuel
line. Note that a gas tank which is kept
filled helps keep
moisture from forming.
* Oil--Change your oil and oil filter as
specified in your
manual--more often (every 3,000 miles) if
your driving is
mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent
short trips.
* Cooling Systems--The cooling system should
be completely
flushed and refilled about every 24 months.
The level,
condition, and concentration of the coolant
should be
checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze
and
water is usually recommended.)
DIYers, never remove the radiator
cap until the
engine has thoroughly cooled!
The tightness and condition of drive
belts, clamps,
and hoses should be checked by a pro.
* Windshield Wipers--Replace old blades.
If your climate is
harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades
to fight ice
build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent--you'll
be
surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.
* Heater/Defroster The heater and defroster
must be in good
working condition for passenger comfort and
driver
visibility.
* Battery--The only accurate way to detect
a weak battery is
with professional equipment. Routine care:
Scrape away
corrosion from posts and cable connections;
clean all
surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If
battery caps are
removable, check fluid level monthly.
Avoid contact with corrosive deposits
and battery
acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
* Lights--Inspect all lights and bulbs;
replace burned out
bulbs; periodically clean road grime from
all lenses.
To prevent scratching, never use
a dry rag.
* Exhaust System--Your vehicle should be
placed on a lift
and the exhaust system examined for leaks.
The trunk and
floor boards should be inspected for small
holes. Exhaust
fumes can be deadly.
Cold weather will only make existing problems
worse. A
breakdown--never pleasant--can be deadly in the
winter.
* Tires Worn tires will be of little use
in winter weather.
Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven
wearing,
and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts
and nicks. Check
tire pressures once a month. Let the tires
"cool down"
before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended.
Don't forget your spare, and be sure
the jack is in
good condition.
Carry emergency gear: gloves, boots, blankets,
flares, a
small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains,
and a flash
light. Put a few "high-energy" snacks
in your glove box.
A Word about ASE
Perhaps years ago, a shade-tree mechanic
whose only
crededentials were a tool box and busted knuckels
was enough.
But today's quality-consious consumers demand
more.
The independent, non-profit National Institute
for
Automotive Service Evcellence (ASE) conducts the
only
industry-wide, national certification program
for automotive
tecnicians.
Consumers benefit from ASE's certification
program since
it takes much of the guesswork out of finding
a competent
tecnicians.
ASE certifies the completency of individual
tecnicians
through a series of standardized specialty exams
(brakes,
transmissions, engine repair, ect.)
ASE
CERTIFIED
We employ technicians certified by the
National institute
for AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE.
Let us show you their credentials
Certified technicians are issued pocket
credentials
listing their area(s) of expertise and uually
wear blue and
white ASE shoulder insignia, while employers often
post the ASE
sign on the premises. There are over a quarter
million ASE
tecnicians at work in every type of repair facility.
This publication has been reviewed by
the Environmental
Protection Agency. Distribution of this document
does not
constitute or imply EPA endorsement of any ASE
service.
National Institute for
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE
13505 Dulles Technology Dr.
Herndon, VA 22071
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It's Up to You: Dirty or Clean
Keeping Your Vehicle in Tune with
the Environment
Glove Box Tips from
Ted the Technician
EPA
National Institutes for
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE
Keeping Your in Vehicle in Tune with the Environment
Car care is definitely a win-win situation.
Besides
helping the environment, a properly maintained
and operated
vehicle will run more efficiently, will be safer,
and will last
longer--up to 50% longer, according to a survey
of
ASE-certified Master Auto Technicians. The following
tips
should put you on the road to environmentally
conscious car
care.
* Keep your engine tuned up. A misfiring
spark plug can
reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30%. Follow
the service
schedules listed in your owner's manual.
Replace filters
and fluids as recommended.
* Check your tires for proper inflation.
Underinflation
wastes fuel--your engine has to work harder
to push the
vehicle. Wheels that are out-of-line (as
evidenced by
uneven tread wear or vehicle pulling) make
the engine work
harder, too. Properly maintained tires will
last longer,
meaning fewer scrap tires have to be disposed.
Every ten days, motorists who drive with under-inflated
tires
and poorly maintained engines waste 70 million
gallons of
gasoline.
Car Care Council
* Keep your air conditioner in top condition
and have it
serviced only by a technician certified competent
to
handle/recycle refrigerants. Air conditioners
contain
CFCs--gases that have been implicated in
the depletion of
the ozone layer. According to the Environmental
Protection
Agency, almost one third of the CFCs released
into the
atmosphere come from mobile air conditioners;
some simply
leaks out, but the majority escapes during
service and
repair--so it's important to choose a qualified
technician.
* Do-it-yourselfers: dispose of used motor
oil,
anti-freeze/coolant, tires, and old batteries
properly.
Many repair facilities accept these items.
Or call your
local municipal or county government for
recycling sites.
Never dump used oil or anti-freeze on the
ground or in
open streams.
Each year twenty times the amount of oil spilled
by the tanker
Exxon Valdez in Alaska is improperly dumped into
America's
environment by do-it-yourselfers.
Automotive Information Council
* Observe speed limits. Mileage decreases
sharply above 55
mph.
* Drive gently. Avoid sudden accelerations
and jerky
stop-and-go's. Use cruise-control on open
highways to keep
your speed as steady as possible.
* Avoid excessive idling. Shut off the engine
while waiting
for friends and family. Today's vehicles
are designed to
"warm up" fast, so forget about
those five-minute warm ups
on cold winter mornings.
* Remove excess items from the vehicle.
Less weight means
better mileage. Store luggage/ cargo in the
trunk rather
than on the roof to reduce air drag.
* Plan trips. Consolidate your daily errands
to eliminate
unnecessary driving. Try to travel when traffic
is light
to avoid stop-and-go conditions. Join a car
pool.
Remember, how your car runs, how you drive
it, and how its
fluids, old parts, and tires are disposed of all
have serious
consequences on the environment.
A Word about ASE
Perhaps years ago, a shade-tree mechanic
whose only
credentials were a tool box and busted knuckles
was enough.
But today's quality-conscious consumers demand
more.
The independent, non-profit National Institute
for
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) conducts the
only
industry-wide, national certification program
for automotive
technicians.
Consumers benefit from ASE's certification
program since
it takes much of the guesswork out of finding
a competent
technicians.
ASE certifies the competency of individual
technicians
through a series of standardized specialty exams
(brakes,
transmissions, engine repair, ect.)
ASE
CERTIFIED
We employ technicians certified by the
National institute
for AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE.
Let us show you their credentials
Certified technicians are issued pocket
credentials
listing their area(s) of expertise and usually
wear blue and
white ASE shoulder insignia, while employers often
post the ASE
sign on the premises. There are over a quarter
million ASE
technicians at work in every type of repair facility.
This publication has been reviewed by
the Environmental
Protection Agency. Distribution of this document
does not
constitute or imply EPA endorsement of any ASE
service.
National Institute for
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE
13505 Dulles Technology Dr.
Herndon, VA 22071
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Don't Get Hung Up In the Heat
Getting Your Vehicle Ready
for Summer
Glove Box Tips from
Ted the Technician
EPA
National Institutes
for
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE
Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Summer
Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic
will take
their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of
last winter, and
you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen
the odds of
mechanical failure through periodic maintenance...Your
vehicle
should last longer and command a higher resale
price, too!
Some of the following tips are easy to
do; others require
a skilled auto technician.
Getting Started--The best planninG guide is
your owner's
manual. Read it; and follow the manufacturer's
recommended
service schedules.
* Air Conditioning--A Marginally operating
system will fail
in hot weather. Have the system examined
by a qualified
technician.
* Cooling System--The greatest cause of
summer breakdowns is
overheating. The cooling system should be
completely
flushed and refilled about every 24 months.
The level,
condition, and concentration of the coolant
should be
checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze
and
water is usually recommended.)
DIYers, Never remove the radiator
cap until the engine
has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and
condition of drive
belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked
by a pro.
* OIL--Change your oil and oil filter as
specified in your
manual--more often (every 3,000 miles) if
you make
frequent short jaunts, extended trips with
lots of
luggage, or tow a trailer.
* Engine Performance--Replace other filters
(air, fuel, PCV,
etc.) as recommended--more often in dusty
conditions. Get
engine driveability problems (hard starts,
rough idling,
smiling, diminished power, etc.) corrected
at a good shop.
* Windshield Wipers--A dirty windshield
causes eye fatigue
and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn
blades and get
plenty of windshield washer solvent.
* Tires--Have your tires rotated about every
5,000 miles.
Check tire pressures once a month; let the
tires "cool
down" first.
Don't forget your spare, and be sure
the jack is in
good condition. Examine tires for tread life,
uneven
wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls
for cuts and
nicks. An alignment is warranted if there's
uneven tread
wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.
* Brakes--Brakes should be inspected as
recommended in your
manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations,
grabbing,
noises, or longer stopping distance. Minor
brake problems
should be corrected promptly.
* Battery--Batteries can fail any time of
year. The only
accurate way to detect a weak battery is
with professional
equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion
from posts
and cable connections; clean all surfaces;
re-tighten all
connections. If battery. caps are removable,
check the
fluid level monthly.
Avoid contact with corrosive deposits
and battery
acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
* Lights--Inspect all lights and bulbs;
replace burned out
bulbs; periodically clean dirt and insects
from all
lenses.
To prevent scratching, never use a dry
rag.
* Emergencies--Carry some basic tools--ask
a technician for
suggestions. Also include a first aid kit,
flares, and a
flashlight. Consider buying a CB radio.
A Word about ASE
Perhaps years ago, a shade-tree mechanic
whose only
credentials were a tool box and busted knuckles
was enough.
But today's quality-conscious consumers demand
more.
The independent, non-profit National Institute
for
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) conducts the
only
industry-wide, national certification program
for automotive
technicians.
Consumers benefit from ASE's certification
program since
it takes much of the guesswork out of finding
a competent
technicians.
ASE certifies the competency of individual
technicians
through a series of standardized specialty exams
(brakes,
transmissions, engine repair, ect.)
ASE
CERTIFIED
We employ technicians certified by the
National institute
for AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE.
Let us show you their credentials
Certified technicians are issued pocket
credentials
listing their area(s) of expertise and usually
wear blue and
white ASE shoulder insignia, while employers often
post the ASE
sign on the premises. There are over a quarter
million ASE
technicians at work in every type of repair facility.
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