Reading Skills for Today's Adults

John’s car didn’t sound quite right. It was making some odd noises. He knew that he should have it looked at soon. After all, it was the end of October and a questionable car and winter weather did not mix well.

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John wasn’t sure where to take his car. He was new in town and until this week had not needed the service of a mechanic. He asked a couple of his coworkers what shop they would recommend. He also talked with his neighbors about where they had their auto repairs done. 

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Frank’s Auto Clinic was a popular suggestion. John took both his car and some questions to Frank’s. First, John asked how the shop priced its work. He knew that some shops charged a flat rate for labor on auto repairs, while others charged on the basis of the actual time the mechanic worked on the repair. If the latter was the case, what was the rate per hour? 

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John asked about diagnostic charges. Did Frank’s charge for diagnostic tests? If John needs costly or complicated repairs, he may want a second opinion. If he decides to get the work done elsewhere, would he need to pay Frank’s a diagnostic fee?

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John requested a written estimate. He knows what a helpful document it is. The written estimate should identify the condition to be repaired, the parts needed, and the anticipated labor charge. There should also be a statement about contacting the car owner for approval before any work is done exceeding a specified amount of time or money. John thoroughly reviews any estimates and always gets a signed copy.

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Frank’s staff addressed all of John’s questions and concerns. John was pleased with their thoroughness. He received a signed estimate that he felt was fair. He made an appointment for the repairs to be done the following week. 

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After the mechanics were finished with John’s car, John got a completed repair order describing the work that was done. It listed each repair, the parts that were supplied, as well as the cost of each part, the labor charges, and the date the work was completed.

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John was pleased with the service he received at Frank’s Auto Clinic. He will recommend them to others who need repair work done to their cars. John is confident that his car will safely get him through the winter months.