Communication
is key to service

EVEN THOUGH today’s vehi-
cles are high-tech marvels, when it
comes to automotive maintenance
and repairs, some things stay the
same.

Whatever type of repair facility
you patronize — dealership, ser-
vice station, independent garage,
or national franchise ~— old-
fashioned communication between
customer and shop is vital.

Do your homework

Get involved and take an active
role. Read the owner’s manual,
familiarize yourself with the basic
components, follow the service
schedules listed in the manual,
and keep a log of all repairs and
service. Get in the habit of keeping
complete records.

Use all of your senses to inspect
your vehicle frequently. Check
Or:

@® unusual sounds, odors, drips,
warning lights, smoke, etc;

@ changes in acceleration, engine
performance, gas mileage, fluid
levels;

® worn tires, belts, hoses;

@ problems in handling, braking,
vibrations or steering.

Note when the problem occurs.
fs it constant or periodic? When
the vehicle is cold or after the
engine has warmed? At all speeds?
When did the problem first begin?
Describe, do not diagnose .

Once you go to the repair facil-
ty, be prepared to describe the
symptoms. Many shops are very
busy, 50 try to be concise, but
avoid establishments where you
feel rushed, intimidated, or that
your comments are not welcome.

Carry a written list to give to
the technician or service manager.
This is especially important in
farger shops, where the work
order may be passed from service
writer to technician.

Resist the temptation to suggest
a specific course of repair or to
demand an on-the-spot diagnosis.
Just as you would with your
physician, tell where it hurts and
how long it’s been that way, but
let the technician diagnose the
problem and recommend a
remedy.

Ask questions

Ask as many questions as you
need. Do not be embarrassed to
request everyday definitions and
non-technical terminology.

Request that the repairs be per-
formed by a technician certified in
the appropriate area, such as
brakes or engine performance.

In addition to technician creden-
tials, look for other signs of pro-
fessionalism such as overall neat-
ness, customer service awards,
membership in the Better Business
Bureau, up-to-date equipment,
and a positive, professional at-
titude from the shop personnel.

Before you leave, make certain
you understand all shop policies,
including guarantees, labor rates
and diagnostic fees.

Ask to be called and apprised
of the problem, course of action,
and costs before work be

MARTIN FORD of TLC Auto Centre lays on a coat of wax to this
1979 GMC Suburban. Shining up vehicles now will make them
look good and protect them from the elements.

COMPLETE TUNE-UP*

includes new ee
WINTER \27| “omeote sours
PACKAGE IN vehicle seen
EFFECT TILL slightly extra, Reg. $89.95
NOV. 15 ONLY | "| COMPLETE COOLANT

BOOK EARIY! | =| Frucey § 5 39
Including 4 litres af Anti- :
‘ Freeze, pressure test cooling

system & inspect hoses etc.,
Reg. $63.95

COMPLETE LUBRICATION,
OIL CHANGE & FILTER

Including checks of ail fluid
tevels, battery condition,
hoses, inspection of cooling
system, lubrication of hinges,

locks, etc., reg. $45.95

INCLUDED IN: THis SEAVICE:IS'A’ 1
REPORT: TO ENSURE-YOU! sary aN PEACE: OF:

including
pars and
labour w.,

*Thie is approximately a three hour service
and includes consultation time with the shop
manager, If requastsd, all for only $129.95
parts and labour included.

SERVICE 980-8501
PARTS 980-2055
BODY SHOP 980-5423