money

Do you Charge for a Diagnosis?

Please read on Before Someone causes you to Spend Too Much. The Real Cost of a Diagnosis If someone tells you they don’t charge for diagnosis, or seem to be the cheapest around: be very suspicious! Diagnostic tests are the most difficult and expensive things your mechanic can do. That said, no one can or…

suv service repair

Read Between the Lines

Could your Car Manufacturer have Ulterior Motives? Sometimes you have to Read Between the Lines of that Owner’s Manual. Ulterior motive: An alternative reason for doing something, especially when differing from the stated or apparent reason. Car owners have to read between the lines. Take for instance what the factory recommends (or requires) for maintenance,…

automotive service repair

Do you have your Freeway Driver’s permit?

Yeah, I know, our system of Interstate Highways doesn’t require a Freeway Driver’s Permit. But maybe it should – because on the roads with the highest speeds and the largest volumes – every mistake one of us makes becomes amplified. It starts with merging traffic. I guess the permit process would expect that we would…

auto service repair

How to Find the Right Repair Shop

Compiled with the help of the ASA, ASE, BBB and the school of hard knocks. Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one Ask friends and co workers (the ones who don’t break down on the way to work) for recommendations; search online for reviews, consult local consumer advocates like Angie’s list or…