CONSUMER AND THE CAR

Tips are outlined for finding a reputable auto repair shop. The best approach is to ask friends and relatives; a shop that does good work at a fair price soon gets a good reputation and its satisfied customers spread the word. Housekeeping is a clue to the quality of work at an auto repair facility, as is length of time. It is legitimate to inquire whether the shop's mechanics are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and to see if the shop displays Bureau of Automotive Repair registration. Once a shop has been selected, a written estimate (preferably two) should be obtained before the work is started, and a written guarantee after the work is completed. Price increases between a new-car order and delivery are addressed. Although some makes of cars are covered by a factory-backed price protection policy, many models carry no such protection, and the only recourse is to discuss the issue with the dealer. The failure of many motorists to keep their cars' engines in proper condition is noted; information is given on engine diagnostic clinics and a mobile unit in California. Mention is made of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's investigation of the General Motors X cars because of a possible defect that could cause engine fires. Also cited is Chryslers' recall of a million 1971 through 1978 vans for a possible cracked frame on Plymouth Voyager and Dodge models with power steering. Information is given on the Auto Safety Hotline (a toll free number to call for reporting or asking about safety defects).

  • Availability:
  • Corporate Authors:

    California State Automobile Association

    150 Van Ness Avenue
    San Francisco, CA  United States  94101
  • Publication Date: 1980-5

Media Info

  • Pagination: p. 52-53
  • Serial:
    • Motorland
    • Volume: 101
    • Issue Number: 3
    • Publisher: California State Automobile Association
    • ISSN: 0027-2310

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00385628
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
  • Report/Paper Numbers: HS-029 095
  • Files: HSL, USDOT
  • Created Date: Jun 28 1984 12:00AM