Five Vital Questions
If you could ask anyone anything, who would you choose, and what would you ask? Before you settle on a celebrity or historical figure, here’s something to consider. You need reliable transportation, so it makes sense to establish a good working relationship with your local garage. As with any successful relationship, communication is the key. Asking the right questions and getting the correct answers are essential. If you have the opportunity, consider asking these five questions of your friendly, neighbourhood automotive technician.
WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATE OF MY BRAKES, TIRES, AND OIL?
Some parts of your vehicle will need regular service, repair, and replacement. These parts, called consumables, include such items as oil, fluids, brakes, and tires. The service interval for consumables will depend upon the kilometres driven, the time between the last service, and the driving conditions you encounter. Your technician will be able to provide an accurate timeline for service based on your driving habits so that you can budget for repairs.
CAN YOU PROVIDE A WRITTEN ESTIMATE?
To eliminate the unexpected and budget for service and repair, it’s always a good idea to ask for a written repair estimate. Your tech can issue this information, and – unless something unforeseen happens – the invoice should closely match the estimate. A reliable shop will contact you before proceeding with service or repair if something unexpected occurs. You can add a request to your service/repair estimate. To lower the estimate, you may choose a less expensive “jobber” alternative. Remember, “jobber” parts may not have the same warranty or quality as an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part. They are, however, generally cheaper and, therefore, a popular alternative.
WILL THE SERVICE TAKE LONG?
You can probably wait in reception for a quick service like a tire swap or oil change. For immediate service, it’s unlikely that you’ll need a ride back home or to work. For a longer repair, some shops offer a convenient shuttle service to drop you off and pick you up. Otherwise, you may need to arrange a ride to work and back to the repair shop. Always ask about the hours of operation.
AM I DUE FOR ANY SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE?
Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure your vehicle runs well for years to come. Check with your technician to find out what routine maintenance is required and when. Oil changes, tune-ups, tire swaps and rotations can be booked in advance. Note the time and date, and then book your service as needed. An oil change is probably the most straightforward service to schedule. A sticker on the window will often alert you of the following recommended oil change. In addition, some shops will text you when it’s time for a change. Oil changes are typically recommended every 5000 to 8000 kilometres depending on the vehicle’s year, make and model.
WILL I FACE ANY POTENTIAL ISSUES DOWN THE ROAD?
If you’re driving an older vehicle, have your technician perform a thorough mechanical inspection. That way, you’ll know what issues need to be dealt with now and which can be dealt with down the road. Some inspection facilities use a colour code system where components in good working condition are flagged GREEN, those that will eventually require attention are flagged YELLOW, and components requiring immediate attention are flagged RED.
At Gearhead Automotive Services, all work is performed by Red Seal Journeyman Technicians using the latest high-tech diagnostic equipment. This team wants to get to know your vehicle and build a long and mutually rewarding relationship with you! The team at Gearhead Automotive look forward to your questions. So, when you take your vehicle to Gearhead Automotive Services, you’ll always get the straight facts!
We’re Gearhead Automotive Services – your one-stop Red Deer Mechanic. Find us at 7597 Edgar Industrial Drive. Call us at 403-358-5801 or email info@gearheadauto.com