Contents: Authorized service center, car…↡ Setting a repair task ↡ Coordination of the cost of work ↡ Spare parts for old car ↡ Filing a claim in a timely manner ↡
Don't forget to have your car serviced in a timely manner. If you need to have your car repaired in a car service, read the regulations and rules that you should follow when visiting it.
Authorized service center, car service, workshop
You are free to choose where to go. And in ordinary workshops, qualified craftsmen work, and some types of work and spare parts are cheaper here. In any case, it should be a reliable workshop.
A car under warranty should be checked at the appropriate authorized service center. Minor damage to the paintwork or small defects on the body can be eliminated at any car service center (workshop), however, in this case you will not be able to make a warranty claim if the defects reoccur.
Setting a repair task
Make a list of the faults and damages you want to fix. Discuss it with the head mechanic at the auto repair shop. If something is unclear, ask questions right away. Show the faults or damages directly on the car.
Give clear repair assignments, do not limit yourself to general phrases, for example: "conduct a technical inspection". Do not pay for unnecessary work.
Coordination of the cost of work
Ask about the approximate cost of work and materials before you issue the final repair assignment. Clearly discuss the cost increase limit if additional work is required.
Ask about the cost of diagnostics. For example, if you need to find out why your car is using too much fuel or accelerating poorly, or why you hear strange noises.
[Article was borrowed from the website: MercedesMan.ru]
Leave the car service a phone number where they can contact you if any questions arise during the repair that require your approval. Record your decisions in writing.
Ask for a written preliminary estimate of the work and services, and upon completion, a detailed bill. The auto repair shop's bill should not exceed the preliminary estimate by more than 20%.
Spare parts for old car
When repairing an older car, ask about special offers on parts and service. Car repair shops often offer original parts at reduced prices - this way you can save up to 30% of the payment amount.
If you need to replace an entire unit, you don't necessarily have to replace it with a new one. Ask about the possibility of installing a used unit that has been properly tested and has a warranty. This could be an engine, generator, starter, water pump, etc.
Filing a claim in a timely manner
A 6-month warranty must be provided for the work performed. Claims for poorly performed work must be filed immediately. If damage or breakdowns occur in your car after poor-quality repairs, you can demand that the car service center fix them, and in case of refusal, file a lawsuit.
Check and guarantee
1. When checking a car, first check the condition and operation of the units responsible for the reliability and safety of your car. If necessary, you have the right to demand their replacement.
2. If the mileage is less than 20,000 km, then components such as brake pads, suspension, tires and steering have wear that is not noticeable to the driver. Therefore, regular maintenance of your car will not only help keep it in excellent condition, but also ensure your safety.
3. Mercedes recommends routine maintenance every 20,000 km and major maintenance every 60,000 km at an authorized service center.
4. If your car's mileage per year is low (does not exceed 20,000 km), then be sure to visit the service center once a year for maintenance.
5. If you drive a Mercedes, do not perform maintenance yourself. Mercedes-Benz will only honor warranty claims if the warranty work was performed on time and at a service center.