16/02/2012
A Consumer's Guide To Automotive Repair In Lagos
If you're like most Lagosians, you depend on your vehicle. When it needs service or repair, you want the work done quickly, correctly, and at a reasonable cost.
By following these tips, you can keep your vehicle in good condition and ensure a good working relationship with your auto repair shop.
This information will also help you understand your rights if you have a problem with a repair shop. Here's what the i recommend:
1. Read and follow your owner's manual.
2. Select a repair shop before you need one, but be sure it is registered with BAR.
3. Know your rights as a consumer.
4. Keep this guide in your car and refer to it before taking your car in for service.
YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL
Your owner's manual explains what your car's warning indicators mean and what to do if they come on. Paying attention to those indicators can keep small problems from becoming big ones.
Besides warning lights, you should also pay attention to how the car performs as you drive each day. Note anything out of the ordinary and deal with it as soon as possible. Most mechanical problems get worse with time.
Remember that simple and inexpensive procedures like oil changes help your car last longer. Follow the manufacturer's recommended schedule for oil changes and other maintenance to help prevent serious problems. The schedule is in your owner's manual.
If you don't have your car owner's manual, check with your local car dealership or look online for a copy.
SELECT A REPAIR SHOP BEFORE YOU NEED ONE
Ask family, friends, and co-workers which repair shops they like and why.
Verify that the shop you are considering is registered, and check to see if there has been any disciplinary action taken against it.
Try out a repair shop with a minor maintenance job, such as an oil change. If you're happy with the service you receive, you may have found a shop that's right for you.
Here are some things to consider when selecting a repair shop:
• Auto repair
• Smog Check, if applicable
• Lamp and brake inspections, if applicable
Professionalism
• Membership in an automotive trade organization
• Technician certifications
Shop appearance
• Neat, well-organized service floors
• Modern equipment
• Clearly posted and easily explained policies on labor charges, guarantees, and accepted methods of payment
Personnel
• Courteous, helpful staff
• A service manager willing and able to answer your questions and resolve disputes
• Qualified technicians with professional certifications such as Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or other advanced training
Guarantees
Ask the service writer if the shop guarantees its work. If so, as for a copy of the guarantee.
Shop Specialty
Ask if the shop's technicians regularly work on the make and model of your car or truck, and are comfortable doing the repair you need - especially if your vehicle needs major work.
MEETING WITH THE SERVICE WRITER
Here are some steps you should take to make sure you are describing the problem fully. Remember, you know your vehicle better than anyone. When something is wrong, try to pinpoint the symptoms before taking the car in for service.
What to Look For
• Unusual sounds, odors, leaks, warning lights, or smoke
Where in the vehicle is the sound coming from? When does it happen? When the engine is running? When the engine is cold? When you're accelerating? Braking? Turning? Going above or at a certain speed?
• Problems in handling or braking
Do you feel vibrations in the steering column or the brake pedal? Does the steering pull to the right or the left? Are your tires wearing unevenly?
• Changes in performance
Has your engine performance decreased? Is your fuel economy falling? Do you regularly have to add coolant or oil? Are belts or hoses wearing out faster than they should?
When you explain the problem to the technician or service representative, be as detailed as possible. Don't rush or let yourself be intimidated.
Although the technician or service representative probably can't diagnose your problem on the spot, ask questions. If you don't understand the answers, ask for clarification.
Be sure the repair shop has a number where you can be reached. If the technician is going to call you later with a diagnosis, ask when. If you're going to call the shop, be sure you know the number and best time to call.
