The E.A.R. Principle

Our last posting spoke about a thin line of trust and finding a worthy repair shop. Now that you have done the hard work of searching one out, what do you expect from them? Perhaps all you want is to turn the key and drive away, but you could receive much more.

Expect the shop to operate by the E.A.R. principle – Educate…Advise…Repair

How well do you understand the operating systems of your vehicle? Does the alphabet soup of PCM, ABS, TPM, BCM, MAP, PH, and so on speak clearly to you? One benefit of your trusted shop is the chance to “pick the brain” of the experts to gain a better street knowledge of what you drive. If they speak in “tech” terms, ask them to clarify and explain it plainly, in ways that you relate to. Vehicle repair can be costly, education about your vehicle is free. Why not get all the free stuff you can?

Let them EDUCATE you.

So now you know more about the suspension and mechanical systems of your vehicle. Here comes the list of needed repairs and horror of horrors, the estimated cost. After you recover from the shock, now what? Remember your trusted shop is not one to pressure sell repair. Take time to think about this. Ask the service manager to prioritize the list for you. Which of these is safety related? Which of these need to be done together to avoid double labor charges? Which of these can wait until a future appointment? Which of these do not need to be done at all? Do these repairs exceed the value of the vehicle and should I consider replacing the vehicle instead? If it were your vehicle, what would you do? Not every repair needs to be done today or at all, so expect your trusted shop to advise you. Take the advice, take your time and make a confident decision.

Let them ADVISE you.

Decision made. Repair it. Remember vehicle repair is a process. Rarely can they plug in a scanner and know all that is wrong or exactly what to do. Symptoms of different problems can mimic each other. Various things can wear out at the same time. More repair needs can be discovered as the job proceeds. Expect a call if the estimate grows, but trust that they are doing the best for you. Remember the thin line. If they make a mistake, be patient, but expect them to remedy the mistake at their cost. Be patient, quality repair takes time and parts are not always available immediately. Working together your vehicle will return to you safe and comfortable to drive.

Let them REPAIR it.