|
|
(NewsUSA) - When Americans picture automotive repair shops, their minds might drift toward a stereotype -; a man's world, with greasy engines and motor sports. A place where women cannot feel welcome.
But experts at the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) say that women account for the majority of all automotive service and repair customers. Moreover, an ASE survey of shops in its Blue Seal of Excellence Repair Facility program found that shop owners often prefer working with female customers and say that women ask intelligent questions, listen and accurately communicate their vehicles' problems.
Of course, any driver will receive better service at a reputable shop. To find a high-quality repair facility, ASE offers these tips:
- Start shopping for a repair shop before you need one. Doing your homework early will help ensure high-quality repairs at the right price.
- Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. If people you know had good experiences at a particular shop, its technicians are probably worth trying.
- Look for a neat, well-organized facility with vehicles equal in value to your own on the parking lot and professional, ASE-certified technicians in the service bays.
- Start off with minor repair or service work. If satisfactory, you can feel confident having the repair shop take on more complicated work when the need arises.
- Be prepared to describe your vehicle's symptoms and supply a written list of recent problems.
- Ask as many questions as you need to, and request explanations of terms and procedures in everyday language. Avoid establishments where you feel ignored, patronized or rushed.
- Don't rush the service writer or technician to make an on-the-spot diagnosis. Let them take the time to examine your vehicle thoroughly.
- Before you leave, make sure that you understand all shop policies about labor rates, guarantees and payment methods.
For more information, including seasonal car-care tips, visit www.ase.com.