BASIC APPEARANCE NOTATIONS
 
 


This is imperative in maintaining a vehicle's top value. It is recommended that you click on Car Care Tips and Products.    You spent a lot of money for the vehicle(s) you have. Let our 20 years of experience give you some key pointers on maintaining value.  There are additional pointers in the Pre-owned Guide for Buyers and Sellers. 

 
 
THE IMPORTANCE OF ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
 
 
It is recommended that you adhere to the guidelines set  by the manufacturer of your vehicle.  You will be rewarded  in the area of reliability as well as peak performance.  Always use the recommended genuine parts for your vehicle. Quality isn't expensive, it is priceless!!!  It is the neglected auto that is always in the shop for costly repairs.

  
 
MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR SERVICING YOUR CAR
 
 
Know the service centers that are performing the service work on your vehicle. It is highly recommended that the service center you choose is certified for your vehicle type.  By following this simple guideline you will have a specialized service center that knows all of the traits of your vehicle.
 
     
 

EXPERIENCE PEACE OF MIND-FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES

-Avoid a workshop that has an unorganized work area.
Start with the most obvious. Is the facility neat and clean? Are employees genuinely concerned with your questions and are their answers direct, to the point and reasonable?

-Make sure you obtain a written estimate for all work performed.
Make sure a written estimate is provided prior to letting the business begin the repair. A good rule of thumb is to request approval on any changes to the original estimate that exceed 10 percent.

-Request the return of all replaced parts for your assurance of installation.
Most automotive shops will give you your old parts back if you ask for them. They can get money for recycling parts, and they will want to keep them. By asking for your old parts, you will be assured of the work done.

-Have a written guarantee of all work performed.
Ask about the shop's warranty. Most automotive service facilities will warranty their parts and labor either in writing or "in shop" posted announcements. Demand this information prior to having any work done.

-If they make a service recommendation that sounds unnecessary, get a second opinion.
Even the most uninformed car owner knows if something sounds a little too extreme. Use your gut feeling to decide. Ask another body shop. Most quotes are free, and can be done on the spot. If the second shop says a similar price, tell them if the first place quoted you less for the same work. You'll be saving money!!!

-Don't hesitate to ask questions.  It is so important to see if your chosen service center is knowledgeable. Look at the credentials of the business and the employees who will service your vehicle. Most shops will post educational certifications or accomplishments and professional business affiliations in their waiting areas. Some affiliations to look for include trade association membership, such as the Automotive Service Association (ASA), and membership in the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for certification or education offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) and the Automotive Management Institute (AMI).