Mike Smith Chrysler Jeep Dodge

How Should I Talk to My Mechanic?

Some mechanics are better communicators than others, so knowing what to say to them when your car needs a repair is a smart move. At Mike Smith Chrysler Jeep Dodge, we stress full transparency and complete accountability and always make sure to be clear, concise and accurate when we talk to our customers in Beaumont, TX.

So, if you want to get the right repairs at a reasonable price, it will depend partially on communicating effectively with your mechanic. To assist you in this process, here is what you should say and the responses that you'll likely receive:

Describe your predicament fully. Provide the mechanic with as much information as possible. Write everything down, including all of the symptoms and when they occurred. If at all possible, communicate directly with the mechanic that will be working on your vehicle. In some cases, that is not possible, but it's the best way to go if you can negotiate a quick meeting with the mechanic before you agree to work with the shop.

Never offer your own a diagnosis. People do this all the time, especially at the doctor's office. You're not a mechanic and that is why you're not fixing your car yourself. Some less scrupulous mechanics will take your suggestions and troubleshoot those symptoms, even though they know all well that those are not the actual issues with your vehicle. You may be on the hook for any repairs the shop makes based on your directives, even if they don’t even come close to solving the problem.

Always insist on a test drive. If the issues take place only when the car is moving, ask the mechanic to go along with you on a test drive. This is sometimes the easiest way to communicate the problems while you're actually in the vehicle with the mechanic. It cuts down on guesswork and may save you on things such as troubleshooting or expensive diagnostics.

Ask for the proof. If you’re not happy with the initial diagnosis, ask the shop to make their case before signing on the line that is dotted. Certain things such as leaking radiators, worn brake pads or rusted-out exhaust pipes are fairly easy to see with the naked eye, but everything should have accompanying evidence with any repair. Don’t let the mechanic reject your request, because many of them don't like this kind of oversight, but insist on getting the evidence anyway and you'll end up happier in the end.

Sources: Consumer Reports, Yelp and USA Today