To avoid getting stuck
with a problem car, here are a few precautions you can take:
Inspect your new vehicle before you accept delivery. If you
detect any problems, refuse delivery until they've been corrected.
Don't accept a dealer's promises that everything will be taken
care of at the first service.
Review and keep copies of the manufacturer's literature about
your model, especially advertisements, brochures and warranties.
Any statements the carmaker makes about performance could help
you get a refund or replacement if a defect keeps the car from
living up to the claims.
Follow the guidelines in your owner's manual for routine maintenance.
Keep thorough records of all service and any problems that crop
up.
Whenever you take your car in for repairs, give the service
adviser a dated note that describes all of the conditions you're
concerned about. Keep a copy of the note in your files.
Get a detailed repair order every time you take your car in
for repairs, even if the shop isn't able to diagnose or fix the
problem. Be sure all repair orders indicate how many days the
vehicle was in the shop.
Keep copies of the repair orders and other paperwork somewhere
other than in your car, where they could get lost.
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