It’s hot and summer and traffic is jammed. There is a good chance that your cooling system (the radiator, belts and engine coolant) will fail in these extreme conditions. A low coolant level, loose hoses or frayed belts can quickly lead to an inconvenient breakdown.
Unless your home mechanic is a skilled one, it’s best to bring your vehicle in to have it checked out at a shop with trained technicians. A well-maintained vehicle will get better gas mileage than one that is neglected. This is a big plus in these high fuel prices.
Here’s time-tested advice from the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, (ASE), on how to choose a repair shop. This group certifies and tests automotive technicians across the country.
Before you actually need one, start looking for repair facilities.
Ask friends and family for recommendations. Consult local consumer groups.
Arrange transportation so that you don’t choose a shop just because it is near your home.
– You want a clean facility with cars in the garage that are equal in value to your own vehicle and modern equipment in service bays.
– Staff should be polite and available to answer questions.
Check for policies that cover estimated repair costs, diagnostic charges, guarantees, and payment methods.
– Find signs that show professionalism in business, such as community or civic awards. Customer service awards or other commendations may be included in business awards.
Qualified technicians are the backbone of any auto repair shop. The customer area may have certificates of advanced work, trade school diplomas and technicians’ ASE certifications.
– Also, look out for the blue-andwhite ASE sign.
– Ask your repair facility whether they usually handle major jobs.
ASE was created to improve the quality automotive service and repair by certifying and testing automotive technicians. ASE-certified technicians sport blue-and-white shoulder badges and have credentials that indicate their area(s). They often have the blue-and white ASE sign displayed at work. Visit www.ase.comFind out more about car care.
