Generational Auto Thinking

Are you like Jennifer and Paul? Two very sweet people who needed an estimate on their car repairs morning. Talk about anxiety. First of all, I get it, we all hate the idea of an estimate (whether it is car repair or buying a new computer system) because you have either had the experience or heard about a story where a simple, inexpensive job or purchase, suddenly evolves into a massive one that costs far more than you expected. Second, you are afraid to ask questions because when you do, you don't understand the answers. I believe many people feel this way. It is almost baffeling that people living in this computerized world today do not understand and grasp how much of the every vehicle is tied to the onboard computer.

Too often people are going away with the feeling that they really don't know what is wrong with the vehicle. They also feel like they have to guess or take on faith that the car repairs the mechanic says are need are indeed what are needed. And then, worry that if they take a low estimate, will be surprised when going to pick up the car and get hit with a huge bill.

Many states have laws today that protect you as a consumer with regard to car repair. In some states, a repair shop cannot give you an estimate for one amount and a bill that is dramatically different without the express permission - often in writing - of the car owner.

The right right attitude and the right information will take you miles. Too many people come into the repair shop either in dread fear or ready to do battle. Neither of these is helpful to learning what we need to know. Asking the right questions to get the answers needed in words you can understand will make all the difference.

Today, there are so many good resources available. Look in your owners manual, check out the Web, talk to your mechanic. You have so many ways to learn more about the mechanics and operation of your car.

Now, back to Jennifer and Paul. When they came in, they knew they were facing a major repair. They used their resources to check out their problem, before they came into the shop. Although they were anxious to deal with the diagnosis, they used the Web and had great questions regarding the repairs. This made a huge difference in their perception of what needed to be done. It was great to help them, and I am sure they will agree the 20-30 minutes of my time they spent on the internet learning about their car was well worth it.

This article was written by Audra Fordin. To get more great advice from Diva Toolbox Media Diva Audra Fordin, visit her website at: www.womenautoknow.com