Over
the years, we've found that we tend to hear the same questions repeated
on a regular basis. We've compiled some of them here with our typical
response. Please browse these frequently asked questions. If your
question is not answered feel free to contact us directly.
Question: Do you have weekend service hours? Our
shop hours are Monday thru Friday 8 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. At this time we do
not have regular Saturday hours, but please call for further details on
available weekend hours..
Question: My Check Engine Light is on, can you help? Sure.
A check engine light, especially on later model cars, is almost always a
computer related or emission related issue that we can diagnose
accurately for you. It could be as simple as a need to have your spark
plugs replaced due to a misfire, or as complicated as a computer failure
or wiring problem. Some require lengthy diagnostic procedures
while others are very simple. We will pull codes for you at no charge and advise you of what might be needed. At this point you will be aware of what kind of diagnostic charges might apply.
Question:
The auto parts store told me my check engine light was on because
I needed a: "Fill in the blank" replaced.. It didn't help, Now what? The
auto parts stores are just that - they sell parts! The counter people
are not typically trained in automotive diagnostics, nor do they have
experience as technicians. They usually recommend a part replacement
when they pull a code because it's an easy parts sale for the counter
guy without obligation! What they fail to inform the customer is that
there are many things that can cause a code. The code
just indicates the SYSTEM that has been identified as having a problem,
NOT the specific problem. Let a professional diagnose
your check engine light before you start buying parts! We can do that
for you at Genuine Auto Repair. And we stand behind our diagnosis!
Question: What is a "Tune-up" today, anyway? The
term "tune up" is really no longer accurate by today's standards. There
is essentially nothing, or very little to "tune" on today's modern
engines as all is controlled by computers. Most people usually refer to a tune
up as replacing spark plugs, which is important, but there are many "maintenance
items" that your auto manufacturer suggests replacing or servicing at
different mileages. We recommend using your manufacturers maintenance
schedule to guide you when performing needed maintenance. Genuine Auto Repair can provide this schedule for you, just ask!
Question: Alignment or Balance? We
address this issue regularly. Typically a customer will request an
alignment because their vehicle is shaking as they drive down the
highway. An alignment in itself is rarely the cause. A true alignment
issue will usually cause your car to pull to one side, or cause your tires to wear unevenly, and even cause a crooked steering wheel. An
alignment in itself will rarely to never correct a vibration felt when
driving at highway speeds. This type of vibration is usually caused by a
bad tire, or a tire balance issue, neither of which will be corrected
by an alignment. A vibration could be caused by a worn steering
component such as a bad tie rod, or ball joint or other suspension
part, and replacing these components does require that
an alignment be performed, but the alignment itself is not actually the
fix. Give us a call or come by, we'd be glad to accurately evaluate what
you have going on.
Question: Can I bring my own parts? The
practical answer for us, and any reputable shop is, "No, I'm afraid
not." And, just like you wouldn't ask a restaurant to prepare food you
brought in, the concept is the same in the scenario of asking a repair
shop to install parts you brought in. There are several reasons
that this is the case. Like a restaurant, every real shop has
an established price necessary to operate that business. A price they
have to charge to keep that business afloat and profitable. That figure
is achieved by charging a price for each repair that makes a small
profit on the labor they provide and a small profit on the parts they
provide. Combined, they can cover expenses and make a profit needed to
survive and grow. Without either of those two, the profit generated is
not enough to cover that cost of doing business. That's not good and
will not sustain the business. Secondly, NOT ALL PARTS ARE CREATED THE
SAME. After years of experience, established, reputable shops have
learned what are good, dependable and quality parts that will deliver
years of service and a happy customer. They've developed relationships
with vendors and brands that will stand behind them if a problem should
ever arise and know which ones to avoid. When a customer brings their
own parts, we are no longer in control of those crucial elements and
cannot assure that a job will last and perform properly. No shop wants
to gamble with a lost or unhappy customer because a cheap part failed to
perform as expected. And, reputable shops are therefore able to offer a
warranty on their REPAIR - parts AND labor - should the unexpected
occur. It may seem that bringing your own parts would save you
money, but in the long run it has proven to be the opposite, and a good
shop just won't put you, or themselves in a compromising position. If
you have a "shop" that's willing to install your parts, you're NOT
dealing with a reputable business who is invested in your long term
happiness and your repeat business as a customer. You're dealing with a
guy looking to get your money and wash his hands of any and all
responsibility. You are left holding the bag and will likely end up at
my shop, or another real shop to re-do the job and fix the mess that he
made. Don't fall into that trap. Call us first!!
Question: Is it "Gen-u-wine" or "Gen-u-win"? We don't care how you pronounce it....Just as long as you give us a call! 618-875-2000