Communication – How to Help Us Provide You With the Best Auto Service
Help your mechanic help you by giving him concrete information about your car. Remember that most mechanics are honest, and willing to help you make your car last as long as possible. (Check out our "Professional Creed". It talks all about integrity at all Superior Tire & Auto Stores.)
For instance, when does your problem or noise occur? Are your turning left or right? Braking or accelerating? Are you in a particular gear? Does the problem or noise stay the same, get worse or improve in any particular situation? Where is the problem or noise coming from - the front or rear? The engine? The right or left?
Is there any other unique or pertinent information that would help the mechanic? For instance, have you just returned from a 5,000 kilometre trip? Have you recently clipped a curb? When was the last time your car was serviced?
If you're having problems with your car, here are some things to pay attention to:
Fluid Leaks
Are there puddles under the car or on the engine? If so you may be able to determine their origin just by their colour.
Coolant is frequently bright green. Oil is brown. Power steering fluid is typically red. Brake fluid is tan, nearly clear. Gasoline is clear and has a distinct odor.
If there is plain water on the ground, touch it. If it's icy cold, odds are that it is condensation from your air conditioning system and is nothing to worry about.
Steam or Smoke: Any such emissions from the engine indicate trouble. Black or blue smoke from your exhaust may indicate a problem, too. Normal deposits on your tailpipe would be the color of hot chocolate.
Dash Warnings
Your gauges and warning lights could be giving you important information about what your car is up to. Refer to your owner's manual to find out what they mean for your car.
Odours
Many fluids have their own unique odor. If you smell something hot or unusual, you may have a leak somewhere. Get it checked. If your nose detects something burning take a minute to look under the hood (make sure the engine is turned off) for this possibility, too. Don't just hope it will go away - check it out.
Noises
Cars have the ability to tell you a lot. Listen for noises from your car and describe them as accurately as possible.
Any unusual sounds, odours, drips, leaks, smoke, warning lights , gauge readings; any changes in gas usage, acceleration, engine performance, fluid levels; any indication of worn tires, belts, hoses or problems with handling, braking, steering, vibrations - bring your concerns to our qualified Superior technicians. It will ensure your peace of mind and lessen the possibilities of premature breakdowns.
At Superior Tire & Auto Centres, we try awfully hard to listen for the problem and suggest the right solution. Then our staff and technicians put their skills to work in correcting that problem - whether it be installing the perfect tire for your driving needs or completing the repairs necessary for your motoring comfort and safety.
But when it comes to repairs, some things stay the same. Whatever type of repair facility you patronize – dealership, service station, independent garage, specialty shop, or a national franchise – good communications between customer and shop is vital. (Check out the articles about "Communication" and "Choosing An Auto Shop")
Superior Service
At every Superior Tire & Auto Centre, we will make it our business to satisfy you in every way possible - with the latest in equipment, helpful and competent personnel, a large in-stock selection of brand name tires and parts - and with the finest guarantees in the business.
