BUFFALO, N.Y., December 15, 2008 – AAA Western and Central New York has released findings from their annual fall AAA Car Care Fairs. During the events, motorists received free 35-point vehicle maintenance inspections to ensure their vehicles were up to par before winter.

AAA found the following top ten to be common maintenance problems for motorists: low/empty windshield washer solvent; dirty engine oil; worn/broken windshield wipers; under-inflated tires; weak battery/charging system; cracked/frail serpentine belt; blown license plate lamp; dirty air filter; low/old transmission fluid; and inadequate tire tread depth.

Now is the time for motorists to prepare for winter, yet many often dread taking their vehicle in for service because auto repair or maintenance questions can create major headaches for consumers.

“Many disputes between consumers and repair shops are the result of misunderstandings over what was supposed to be repaired and what was actually done,” said Jeff Damude, director of Car Care Plus for AAA Western and Central New York. “A repair shop should clearly explain, in understandable terms, what repairs or maintenance may be needed and strive to educate their customers on what those repairs mean, relating both to vehicle efficiencies and safety.”

AAA national research shows roughly one out of every ten consumers was dissatisfied in their most recent visit to an auto repair facility, with the biggest complaints being: inability to fix problems on first visit; inability to diagnose problems properly; repair taking too long; and low quality workmanship.

To ensure consumers receive reliable, quality auto repair service, AAA recommends motorists use the following checklist:

• Determine what type of repair facility is needed. Most vehicles can be repaired and maintained by a full-service repair facility, but if there is a major problem with a specific vehicle system, a shop specializing in that area might be the best choice. Vehicles still under warranty typically must be repaired by the dealer.
• Select a repair facility you trust. Friends, relatives and co-workers are a good source of recommendations. Also, AAA Car Care Plus offers an educational and transparent approach to auto repair, encouraging consumers to accompany their technician into the shop so that they can see and understand their repairs. AAA’s Approved Auto Repair Network also offers quality options. To qualify, facilities must meet and maintain stringent standards for service, training, cleanliness and equipment.
• Make an appointment. If the facility manager knows a motorist is coming and has a rough idea of the problem, the right technician can be assigned to the job and allowed enough time to get it done properly.
• Describe the problem. Don’t tell the technician what needs to be repaired or replaced unless it’s obvious. Instead, describe the problem and its symptoms, and let the technician determine the appropriate solution.
• Read the repair order. Be wary of blanket statements such as “check and correct transmission noise” or “fix engine.” They could result in an unexpected and costly major repair. And never sign a blank repair order or tell the shop to “just fix it” or “do what’s necessary” unless the problem is covered under warranty.
• Get a written estimate. Oral estimates can be disputed or forgotten. Always ask for a written estimate prior to approving work on your vehicle.
• Insist on a call if repair costs will exceed the estimate. Predicting exact repair costs can be difficult, so most written estimates allow up to a 10 percent overrun. However, motorists should make sure it’s written on the repair order they want to be called if the costs will exceed this allowance.
• Carefully consider add-on repairs. If the repair facility calls to say a different part of the vehicle also needs work, it may be best to defer those repairs until a later visit unless the shop can provide clear justification for making them immediately. Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if the extra work does not appear warranted.
• Ask for replaced parts. When dropping their vehicle off for service, consumers should tell the shop they will want to see any replaced parts. Consumers are also entitled to keep those parts, unless the facility must return them under a warranty or exchange program. Replaced parts and a well-documented repair order can be useful if there is a problem later.
• Take a test drive. If a problem remains or the vehicle does not run properly after it’s picked up, don’t go home. Return to the shop immediately. If a problem arises after leaving the shop, make an appointment to bring the vehicle back as soon as possible.
• Get a detailed copy of the repair order. Make sure it specifies the costs of labor and each part. Ask for the facility’s warranty in writing it it’s not printed on the bill. AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities offer a minimum 12-month/12,000-mile warranty; while AAA Car Care Plus offers a detailed vehicle report card and a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty.

AAA reminds motorists that they can receive a 35-point vehicle maintenance inspection by appointment at no charge by visiting any AAA Approved Auto Repair facility or AAA Car Care Plus. For more information on quality auto repair, please visit www.AAA.com/auto, call 800-836-CLUB, or visit any AAA Approved Auto Repair facility or AAA Car Care Plus at 2131 Eggert Road Amherst.

As Upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA provides over 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA can be visited at www.AAA.com.