Choose a service specialization
All repair work can be divided into three types: highly specialized, universal, maintenance. And it is clear that glass gluing specialists will refuse to “swing” spark plugs at the same time. And vice versa – generalist repairmen do not pick up the shot from the variator. Or (worse!) they’ll take it and do it badly.
Here are some works to be done at specialized auto services:
- internal combustion engine overhaul
- repair of automatic transmission, variator or robotized gearbox
- gearbox repair
- steering repair
- exhaust system repair
- cardan shaft repair
- repair of air conditioning systems
- body repair
- glue glass
- mounting tires
- installation and replacement of security systems
Most typical plumbing work (e.g. on the chassis), minor repairs to wiring and body parts fall on the shoulders of universal services. Also, they are ready to perform the maintenance of the car.
Sometimes the work of a universal workshop has to be transferred to a specialized workshop. For example, if the rack and pinion steering mechanism is faulty and the replacement is too expensive, it is given to specialists for overhaul. And the car is temporarily rolled back into the crankcase.
There are services that take on almost all types of work and do it conscientiously at the same time. But such masters must be sought. Therefore, it is preferable to contact narrow specialists for specific repairs.
Rate by clothing
Even at the stage of a phone call, you have to end the service with suspiciously low prices. No one will work at a loss which means there are some tricks.
You have to be wary when they mention the price of the work without knowing what kind of car you have. For example, to replace spark plugs on some machines, you need to remove the intake manifold. And this is long, expensive and you still have to replace the seals.
The service can also be judged by its appearance. Rough workers and a dirty, dark room without special tools and diagnostic equipment are reasons to look for another workshop.
A bad sign if the service is empty and the adjacent ones are loaded. Avoid those that are near car markets or technical inspection points, as well as those who have just moved to a new place and have not had time to prove themselves.
We speak correctly with the receiver
If we talk about maintenance, then everything is simple: the list of operations and the price must be fixed. You can also order running gear diagnosis. However, with a careful attitude towards the client, the contractor itself will report the deficiencies found.
If a specific problem has brought you to the service, you should state it in general terms. For example, something knocks from the front – write it in the application. But in order not to replace all the suspension elements, it is better to be present during the diagnosis. After specifying the breakdown and the cost of the work, you can safely get to work.
Study the work performed carefully. If there are edits that you have not ordered, please request to be removed from the list and recalculate the estimate.
Skillfully avoid divorce for total repairs
If you are present during the diagnosis, you cannot breed for unnecessary work. True, if the car is old, the contractor should warn that parts damaged by rust can break. Then the repair will cost more – this is normal. They didn’t warn and bill for drilling almost all fasteners? This is a typical divorce.
Sometimes military personnel increase the amount of work performed on their own initiative. For example, you ordered the replacement of brake pads, and they “at the same time” sorted out the brake calipers, replaced the rubber elements. And he demands three times more money for the work done. Do not let them get to you! The repairers had to coordinate the work with you and only then carry it out.
We check the quality and fact of the work performed
You’ve come to take work, and you’re getting to see the old details. This does not indicate a quality repair. It is advisable to check for new parts on the machine, and it is best to be present at least during part of the work.
Smart savings on spare parts
You can bring your own spare parts for maintenance. And for complex repairs, it is better that the parts are purchased by technicians. For example, replacing a coolant pump is not an easy procedure. It requires draining antifreeze and often disassembling the timing belt. After mounting it turns out that the pump “flows”? EIf the node has purchased the service, then repeated removal and installation will be at its expense. In addition, a warranty must be given on the pump and the work.
Often the service costs money for a supposedly installed expensive part. But in fact it is replaced by a low quality spare part. It won’t break right away, but the resource is usually significantly lower. How do you protect yourself from deception? Only be present during the repair.
Such a cape not only protects body panels from damage, but also shows care for the customer and his car.
We pay special attention to liquids
Often, instead of super expensive brand engine oil, something simpler is poured. Most often this happens when changing the oil in the engine, less often – in automatic gearboxes and variators. Oil should not be replaced at all in a diesel engine: it will turn black almost immediately!
The same is often done with brake fluid. Can upgrade 150ml to fit in the bottle. Why climb under the car at the risk of tearing off the bleed nipples?
Last warning
All of the abovelearns much more often if a woman brings a car to the service. Therefore, do not leave your ladies alone with treacherous soldiers.
After all, communication with mechanics and electricians is a difficult thing, and he has to learn that, sometimes for a long time. But experience will come. After all, you didn’t immediately start driving a good and safe car.
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