Posted on 2/10/2011
Providing clear, comprehensive information to your mechanic can save them diagnostic time, resulting in more efficient vehicle repair, ultimately saving you money. The more specific and thorough you can be about your vehicle's performance, the more you help the technician zero in on the problem. Here are some pointers on improving communications with your auto technician: Before bringing your car to a repair facility, take notes on your car's symptoms and performance. Include any observations, even if they seem silly or irrelevant. Describe symptoms rather than solutions. Tell the technician what you see, smell, hear and feel. Also, tell them under what driving conditions you experience the problem and how long ago it started. Be precise. For example, "I noticed a rattle under the hood at 40 mph." Refer to the driver's side and passenger side (not the left or right side) of the car. Resist the temptation to use ... read more
Posted on 2/3/2011
PLAN AHEAD. Read maps and check traffic conditions before you get on the road. STOW ELECTRONIC DEVICES. Turn off your phone before you drive so you won’t be tempted to use it while on the road. Pull over to a safe place to talk on the phone or to send and receive text messages or emails. PREPARE KIDS AND PETS FOR THE TRIP. Get the kids safely buckled in and situated with snacks and entertainment before you start driving. If they need additional attention during the trip, pull off the road safely to care for them. Similarly, prepare and secure pets appropriately in your vehicle before getting underway. SATISFY THAT CRAVING OFF THE ROAD. Eat meals and snacks before getting behind the wheel, or stop to eat and take a break if driving long-distance. STORE LOOSE GEAR AND POSSESSIONS. Stash away loose objects that could roll around and ... read more