Cars in too bad of shape to work on

[Tom]

If the person is not totally “nuts” (most are not) and if they can come up with the money to fix it (most can), then estimate it accordingly.

In many cases, if you blow it out the door, then a few days later it is at the shop up the street with a 4 figure RO.

So, smile and think about the GP.

[Patrick McElroy]

There are some cars that just need to be retired. Some customers

just need to hear it loud and clear from the professional that they

are spending their money unwisely. I agree with Tom that some

vehicle owners will pony up to fix their vehicle when presented with

all the information they need. This is a real balancing act that

each shop owner has to deal with. I have found that some customers

are relieved when I inform them that it’s time to “let go” . I use

the following list to measure up a vehicle and it’s owner.

1. Can I make this vehicle safe to drive ?

2. Am I going to marry this vehicle if I work on it ?

3. What is the value of this vehicle on Kelly Blue Book ?

We print out the KBB report to show the vehicle owner.

4. Write a list off all the issues you see of the vehicle. Both

safety and non safety. What maintenance is due and overdue.

5. Would I let my wife or children drive this vehicle ?

6. Re-inforce that fixing this vehicle does not make it new. Some

customers think that spending x amount of dollars fixes everything

for a couple years. Fixing x does not mean that y and z will not

present problems in the future. Y and Z could show up tomorrow .

Only after communicating all of the options to a customer can he/

she make an informed decision about their vehicle. Sometimes, their

informed decision may not agree with our opinion. ( that would be

the “crazy” customer )