car repair

Hello. I am Mary and I’m having a problem with my car.

Hi, Mary. I’m Butch. What’s your problem?

Well, a couple of things: when I put on my brakes I hear a loud screech and my steering wheel shakes.

OK. We’ll put your car up on the lift and check your brakes. What else?

Well, this is a pain! Almost every time I stop at a red light or stop sign, the engine dies.

So, when you turn the key – you know…start the car – does it start up right away?

Usually.

Tell me this: when you slow down just before stopping, does it idle smoothly or shake a little?

Oh, gosh. I don’t remember that. I have to admit, I really don’t know anything about cars – you know I get in, turn the key on, turn the radio on and just go. Oh, yeah… seatbelt, of course (ha ha)!

That’s ok, Mary. That’s what we do – most people aren’t much better than you. When can you leave the car? This may take 2 – 3 hours depending [on|upon] what we find.

I need my car by 12:30 every day, so any morning would work.

Good. We are really busy this week. How about next Wednesday? Can you have it here by 8:00 AM or the night before?

Yes. Maybe the night between 5 or 6 PM.

Good. Let’s get your name and contact information… Remember to phone on Wednesday morning.

Wait. How much is this going to cost me?

As you might appreciate, until we get in here I can’t give you an accurate quote. The brakes could go from $200 to $400. The engine stall could be simple or take more parts and labor. How about when we check things out, I’ll give you a call on Wednesday morning with a pretty close quote. I would suggest the brake is more critical. You can decide then. By the way, my dad started this business. I’ve been here since I was a kid.

That’s good. How do I pay you?

Credit card, debit or cash. No personal checks. OK?

OK. I’ll talk with you on Wednesday and I’ll drop the car off Tuesday evening.