Today's cars, light trucks, and sport-utility vehicles are high-tech marvels with digital dashboards, oxygen sensors, electronic computers, unibody construction, and more. They run better, longer, and more efficiently than models of years past.
But when it comes to repairs, some things stay the same. The following tips should help you along the way:
Do your homework before taking your vehicle in for repairs or service.
- Read the owner's manual to learn about the vehicle's systems and components.
- Follow the recommended service schedules.
- Keep a log of all repairs and service.
When you think about it, you know your car better than anyone else. You drive it every day and know how it feels and sounds when everything is right. So don't ignore its warning signals.
Use all of your senses to inspect your car frequently. Check for:
- Unusual sounds, odors, drips, leaks, smoke, warning lights, gauge readings.
- Changes in acceleration, engine performance, gas mileage, fluid levels.
- Worn tires, belts, hoses.
- Problems in handling, braking, steering, vibrations.
- Note when the problem occurs.
- Is it constant or periodic?
- When the vehicle is cold or after the engine has warmed up?
- At all speeds? Only under acceleration? During braking? When shifting?
- When did the problem first start?
Once you are at our location, communicate your findings.
- Be prepared to describe the symptoms.
- Carry a written list of the symptoms that you can give us.
- Resist the temptation to suggest a specific course of repair. Just as you would with your physician, tell us where it hurts and how long it's been that way, but let the technician diagnose and recommend a remedy.
Stay involved. . . Ask questions.
- Ask as many questions as needed to fully understand your repair. Ask for laymen terms if needed.
- Don't rush the technician to make an on-the-spot diagnosis. You may ask to be called and apprised of the problem, course of action, and costs before work begins.
- Before you leave, be sure you understand all shop policies regarding labor rates, guarantees, and acceptable methods of payment.
- Leave a telephone number where you can be called.
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what our customers say
Familia Automotive is an outstanding place to have your car repaired. The owner makes you feel part of his family the second you walk in. I have never felt this with any of the other shops I have taken my car to. I felt comfortable asking questions and voicing my concerns. Familia Automotive fixed my car right the first time, told me to come back if there were any issues, and were very competitively priced and with better service. Highest praises for fixing my 1998 Saab Turbo 900 SE.
This is by far the best auto repair shop I've ever been to. Clint was amazing, friendly and efficient, I was referred by a friend and will happily refer my friends. The techs or Clint (the one I dealt with) was honest and did not try to up-sell me. He made me feel welcomed and explained everything he did. Great people!! and Clint!!
A family member of mine recommended familia automotive and i have not gone anywhere else since then. The owner Klent has great communication and explains exactly what needs work on your vehicle and why. He gives recommendations on where you can go if he does not have parts or services needed and best of all has great pricing. Best in Stockton!!
