How to Communicate Effectively with an Auto Mechanic

Even though many cars are built to last, even the most reliable vehicles break down over time. When this happens, knowing how to talk to an auto mechanic and report the symptoms your car is showing goes a long way to…

Even though many cars are built to last, even the most reliable vehicles break down over time. When this happens, being able to talk to an auto mechanic and report the symptoms your car is showing goes a long way in getting your car properly fixed the first time and saves you money by avoiding unnecessary repairs. To accurately describe a problem with your car and make sure the mechanic understands what's wrong with your car when you take it in for repair, there are several factors to consider.

Part 1 of 3: Report Your Vehicle's Symptoms

Clear communication ensures that your mechanic understands exactly what symptoms your vehicle is showing. While you most likely won't know exactly what the problem is, if you can accurately describe the symptoms, you can make sure the mechanic has a better understanding of what's wrong with your car so they can fix it faster.

Step 1: Write down the problems. When you start having problems with your car, write down exactly what it does.

This will help you remember exactly what symptoms your car was showing when you picked it up. Otherwise, if you try to remember from memory what is happening, you may miss an important detail.

You should include in your description any specific sounds, feel and behavior of your vehicle, as well as any leaks or smells you notice.

Step 2: Clearly explain the problem. When talking to a mechanic, make sure you describe the problem in a language he understands.

Instead of just stating that the car is making a sound, describe the problem in more detail. The following is a list of common terms for autosymptoms:

• Backfire: A loud bang coming from the exhaust pipe or engine of a car.
• Sink: This occurs when the vehicle sags while driving over a bump or bump in the roadway. Often accompanied by a harsh feeling through the steering column or excessive noise.
• Rocking: Rocking of the car is felt when shifting gears or after the car oscillates.
• Diesel: A term used to describe what happens after you turn off the car and it continues to run for a short time.
• Hesitation: A common problem when a car experiences a temporary loss of power when accelerating.
• Knock: A quick knock or thud is heard when accelerating.
• Misfiring: This occurs when the engine's cylinders are not working properly, resulting in a loss of power.
• Shimmy: When the car exhibits lateral movement that is felt through the steering wheel or tires.
• Slow: When the vehicle does not accelerate strongly or smoothly and seems to be bogged down.
• Surge: The opposite of lethargy. When the vehicle suddenly picks up speed and the engine revs faster.

Part 2 of 3: Test drive to demonstrate problems

If you can't properly explain the problem to the mechanic, or the problem can't be found on inspection, you can ask the mechanic to take the car for a test drive. This is especially important if the problem occurs only while the vehicle is in motion. Let the mechanic decide who will drive the car during the test drive.

Step 1: Drive a car with a mechanic. Drive the vehicle in situations similar to the problem.

If you are driving, follow the safety rules and obey all posted speed limits and traffic signs.

If the problem does not occur during the test drive, you may have to return the car the next time the problem occurs.

Part 3 of 3: Get a Quote for Any Needed Repairs

The final part of the process is getting the mechanic to give you an estimate of how much it costs to fix the problem. It is important that both you and the mechanic understand exactly what needs to be repaired and that you understand the exact costs associated with the repair.

Step 1: Discuss needed repairs. Ask a mechanic to explain what repairs your car needs.

You need to know what is happening and how long it will take. This allows you to rent a vehicle or take it on lease if needed.

• FunctionsA: Give the mechanic a good contact number to contact you. This allows the mechanic to contact you immediately and can save time on repairs. They also need a number to contact you in case of any unforeseen problems.

Step 2: Discuss the associated costs. Then ask the mechanic to tell you how much any repairs should cost.

At this stage, you can discuss what repairs are needed and what can wait. Most mechanics understand that people are often on a tight budget and will make recommendations on what they think is the most urgent repair and what can wait.

Don't try to negotiate a price, as your estimate includes the part and time spent on the repair.

• A warning: Please be aware that the repair cost may increase if another problem is found during the initial repair. Make sure the mechanic understands that you want to be notified in such cases. This way the mechanic can explain the problem and you can make the final decision on how to proceed.

Step 3. Decide how to proceed. With costs in mind, decide what repairs to make, if any.

If you think the mechanic's score is too high, consider getting a second opinion or contact other repair shops to see what their rates are for fixing the same problem and how long the repair will take.

• Functions: Keep in mind that most mechanics don't want to rip you off, but they need to make a living too. What they charge for solving a problem, they charge for what they charge - if you don't agree with their prices, you can take your car elsewhere. Most repair shops charge a diagnostic fee. Ask how much they charge before they look at your car.

A car in need of repair can lead to unwanted stress. By taking your vehicle to an experienced mechanic, you will learn what is wrong with your vehicle and what you need to do to get it repaired, including the cost and time spent on the repair. If you don't know what to do, you can contact an AvtoTachki mechanic for advice you can trust on how to proceed in this or any other vehicle related situation.