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You goal of achieving clarity is the first thing you need to remember when communicating with your mechanic. Think about it for a minute. When with a doctor, you are always specific and detailed with questions, right? That’s the only way to receive the best possible care. Similarly, auto repair customers who describe the symptoms of their vehicle’s trouble in the greatest detail to their mechanic are much more likely to receive the most efficient vehicle care. Knowing how your car works and what questions to ask a mechanic speed along the process of maintenance and repair. This also could mean decreased maintenance and repair costs overall with the car.

How do you communicate with a mechanic? That’s the real question

The Federal Citizen Information Center suggests that learning how to most efficiently communicate with your mechanic isn’t all that difficult. The center suggests these top 10 ways in which you can improve your communication with your auto mechanic.

1. Do all of your homework. If you have done basic legwork on an online search or even by browsing your vehicle’s user manual, you will be able to describe what’s going on to the mechanic much more succinctly.
2. Read the owner’s manual anyway. Look at the owner’s manual, even if you have found information online. It’s the official text for understanding your car for a reason. Many automobile owner manuals are available online if you don’t have the printed manual. Google your car’s year, make and model and “owner’s manual.”.
3. Make sure to follow maintenance schedules. Every so many miles, manufacturers suggest to do certain maintenance procedures. This is intended to keep your car running optimally. If you keep up with the little things, your mechanic won’t have to spend as much time on the big things. You will then save money.
4. Write down everything done to your car. It helps to remember previous work that’s been done on your car, particularly if you have to use a mechanic other than your usual person. This written documentation will help your mechanic stay on track.
5. Use your senses. Beware of sights of leaks, smoke, failing lights and warning lights; smells of burning antifreeze or fried electrical systems; sounds of a car engine struggling to turn over; and the feel of uncommon vibrations or operating difficulty. Know what your car normally feels like and trust yourself.
6. When will a problem occur? Know this so you can explain it to your mechanic.
7. When did trouble begin? Was it after a certain part failed or was replaced? Was it at a certain mile mark? Information such as this will make it easier for a mechanic to search. Carry a written list of symptoms to give to your technician.
8. Don’t play as if you’re doctor. After you give them all the information you can, let them do the work.
9. Ask questions. Ask what is being done to your car, like you with a physician. Before signing anything, ask about shop policies and prices.
10. Never rush a diagnosis. Give your mechanic time to work. An analysis that is unhurried always produces more accurate results saving you time and money.

Citations

how to most efficiently communicate with your mechanic

http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/cars/glovebox/tm04.htm