Let me say first up that maintenance is something that you cannot escape, it's an important part of owning a vehicle and if you want your vehicle to stay healthy and in top shape you must take it in for check-ups just like you would check yourself in to your doctor for your own health.
The job of regular check-ups is to give your car longevity while also preserving the sale value if you decide to sell it at some point.
Always remember: Prevention is far better than trying to fix a full-blown problem.
Tip #1: Shop around (but be wary of the cheapest service)
A lot of people make the mistake of going for the cheapest option.
The problem with (most) cheaper options is that there are almost always hidden costs that usually end up being a lot more expensive then the higher priced garage.
For example let's take the humble oil change.
‘Who cares, oil is oil' you may be thinking but let's consider the job of motor oil in your car:
1. Lubricates the engine (reduces engine friction, friction means your car has to use more fuel to produce the same output which makes your car expensive to run. Lubrication also prevents premature engine failure (replacing an engine is an expensive headache.)
2. Helps cool the engine
3. Prevents engine corrosion
4. Cleans the engine by preventing dirt and sludge build up which is bad news for your engine
Using cheaper oil options can impact any or all of these areas, not good.
The same is true for servicing other parts of your car so paying more for a quality job is always worth it.
Tip #2: Know your budget
After calling around you'll have a clearer idea of how much money to need to spend but having a budget also allows you to communicate better with your mechanic around what you can afford.
Never be afraid to let your mechanic know exactly what your budget is and if they see any more work that needs to be done to get in touch with you. By keeping the channels of communication wide open there will be no misunderstandings at the end.
Tip #3: Get on the same page
The biggest problems arise due to miscommunication between you and your mechanic.
Great communication ensures you and your mechanic are on the same page.
Be clear about everything and don't hesitate to get them to explain things to you if you're unsure.
Good questions to ask the mechanic are:
1. What do I need?
2. How much will it cost? And why is it going to cost this much?
3. If I get my car serviced, when will I need it serviced again?
Never hesitate to query the mechanic about any concerns you may have, the more they know about your concerns the better they can assist.
Tip #4: MTA Assured
Not all garages are created equal, make sure the garage you use is MTA Assured.
MTA Assured garages have to be approved meaning they have demonstrated sound practice.
MTA is also acts as a mediation service so that if you have any problems with a particular garage this can be used to help sort the problem.
Tip #5: Stay connected
Once you find a garage that you like, stay with them. They will keep a record of your car's service history which gives them a better understanding of what needs done.
Hopefully this will help you sort out a good garage for your vehicle and ensure that you get the most from it.
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Gilmour Motors Suzuki Website: www.gilmourmotors.co.nz