Do you have a Clue (Get the Most Out of a Service Visit)
August 28, 2022
When you head to the doctor, you probably have it in your mind what you're going to say about why you don't feel good. That way your doctor can use that information to diagnose your problem. You might want to think of that same approach when you take your vehicle in for a repair.
Experts say what will help the service advisor most is for you to bring in some well-organized descriptions about your vehicle's issues. You might even want to write them down so you don't forget. Is there an unusual smell? What does it smell like? Does the problem happen first thing after starting out? If there's an odd sound you hear, is it dependent on speed? Does it change when you turn a corner?
Keep your expectations realistic. Some conditions may take a long time to diagnose and repair. If you go thinking you'll be in and out in no time, you might be disappointed when you're told there are other customers ahead of you and you may have to come back tomorrow. If you can make alternate plans to have someone pick you up and take you back when the vehicle is finished, that way you won't feel like you've wasted your time.
Most importantly, be available for any communication from the service advisor. If they have your cell phone and they have a question or need an approval for a repair, the sooner they reach you, the sooner things can move forward.
The service facility wants your experience with them to be good just as you do. With a little help from you, they'll get your vehicle back on the road and you'll have a smile on your face.
Sovel's Auto Service
41425 W. 10 Mile Rd.
Novi, Michigan 48375
248-348-7337
Need Service?
More articles from Sovel's Auto Repair Novi
I Had No Idea! (Four Things You Didn't Know About Vehicles)
April 27, 2025
Bet you didn't know: Some of the earliest rearview mirrors were marketed as "Cop Spotters" so drivers would know when police were following them. Who wants a ticket, anyway? According to eBay Motors, Elmer Berger first patented a rearview mirror that was mounted on the front fenders, on the spare... More
Differential Service
April 20, 2025
When you're driving and turn a corner, you probably aren't aware of all that's going on with your wheels. The outside wheels have a longer distance to travel than the inside wheels, so there are gears that allow the wheels to go at different speeds when you turn. That set of gears is called a d... More
Start Me Up (Ignition Systems)
April 13, 2025
When you start up your gasoline engine car, you may not know that it's using the same ignition principles as it has for decades. You have spark plugs that require enough power so a spark can jump across a gap at its tip. Years ago, a vehicle's 12-volt system had to produce 15,000-25,000 volts t... More