All NM pilots have checklists for every aspect of flying. They always use their checklists even if they only have two steps on them. They do this simply because a checklist is a great way to not forget key steps. It is also how they can assure a predictable outcome.

That is why Bernalillo and Cedar Crest automotive service centers including Dr J’s Auto Clinic have procedural standards for each service they perform. Dr J’s Auto Clinic techs are trained step by step. And they perform the procedures step by step, the same way each time. By training to procedural standards, NM centers can assure a quality outcome. The job is done right every time and Albuquerque motorists leave happy with how their minivan performs.

Each company trains its technicians to standards. The NM automotive industry as a whole is very committed to standards of excellence and encourages individual NM service center operators including Jay Waterfield (manager at Dr J’s Auto Clinic) to apply them to every vehicle they service.

An example is how Dr J’s Auto Clinic service specialists grade problems and communicate their recommendations. If your service specialist tells you that a repair or replacement is required it must meet the following criteria:

The part no longer performs its intended purpose
The part does not meet a design specification
The part is missing

The service advisor may suggest repair or replacement if:

The part is close to the end of its useful life – just above discard specifications or likely to fail soon
To address a customer need or request – like for better ride or increased performance
To comply with maintenance recommended by the car maker
Based on the service professional’s informed experience

Here are some examples:

An exhaust pipe has rusted through and is leaking. Replacement is important because the part has failed. If the pipe were rusted, corroded or weak, but not leaking, the service advisor may suggest it be replaced because it is near the end of its useful life and replacing it now may be more convenient for the Albuquerque client.

Suppose a customer wants to improve his car’s handling, but his shocks haven’t failed. The technician may suggest replacement of the shocks to satisfy the customer’s wishes.

Under these guidelines the Albuquerque car repair shop must refuse partial service of a required repair if the repair creates or continues an unsafe condition.

Let’s say a customer has a cracked brake rotor. This is a dangerous condition that must be repaired. If the customer does not want to replace the rotor, but instead just wants new brake pads installed, the shop must ethically refuse the partial repair. That can be an upsetting conversation, but understanding that Albuquerque service centers operate under service standards and procedures is comforting. You want your service to be done right and to have confidence in your technician’s recommendations.

The NM automotive service industry and Dr J’s Auto Clinic want the best for you and for you to keep coming back. AutoNetTV is committed to providing automotive maintenance information to help you be confident in your service decisions.