Any vehicle, regardless of the make, model, or year, can at some point encounter a bit of a hiccup in the repairs department.

In this case, you’ll , find yourself on the way to your local garage for a solution. Now, no one loves being surprised with an unexpected, often costly, and potentially time-consuming repair. When you arrive at said destination, there are a few key factors in whether the experience is a more positive one than expected, though, and it all hinges on good communication.

The first thing it is important to do is remember that your mechanic is a trained, experienced, knowledgeable professional. Chances are high he has seen your particular problem more than once before, regardless of whatever that problem may. Enter the situation with a mind set that this is a symbiotic relationship – you require a particular service, and your mechanic earns his livlihood providing that service. If all goes well, everybody wins, so don’t let the frustration of needing a repair set the stage for your interactions.
Choose a mechanic you feel you can have a positive rapport with for the best possible results.

The second thing you’ll need to bring with you are details. This doesn’t mean you should do a little research on the internet, decide you know for sure what’s wrong, and demand that the “thing” you settled on be handled / repaired / replaced. It does mean you should do a bit of research on the internet and have a basic understanding of how the components in question might be causing a problem, with a focus on how to best describe the problem. With a good description of the symptoms, your mechanic can quickly narrow down the potential problem causing candidates. Explain the problem as thoroughly and descriptively as possible, and then let the professional take it from there. It’s ok to ask questions about things you don’t understand, provided you ask them respectfully and politely – and be prepared to accept the anser even if it differs from your own. Give as many details as possible, such as when and where you first noticed a change.

Lastly, remember you are entitled to a second opinion if you choose to seek one (and you should, especially if the cost is extensive. If the estimate or suggestion doesn’t sit well with you, smile, be gracious, exit the building and proceed to a completely separate location for a second opinion.