Troubleshooting

One of the things that makes a good race car driver even better is that he or she notices unusual symptoms of the car and can report them to the pit crew... accurately.

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The Car Care Council suggests that every driver should develop the habit of noting unusual symptoms of a vehicle and reporting them to the technician. Not diagnose, but report. This can cut the cost of the repair because it saves time, which costs money. In some cases it can prevent the installation of parts that might not have been needed if the owner had not tried to second guess the problem.

Take notes, if necessary says the Council. Be as specific as you can. If at all possible, try to duplicate the circumstances which may have prompted the symptoms to occur. These include: time of day, temperature, on a hill or on level ground, speeds and so forth.

While you've got your notebook out, make sure to record any maintenance or repair that's been performed on the car. Include the date, the name of the repair facility and any warranty information.

For more automotive maintenance information log on www.carcarecouncil.org.