Tips on Taking a Duramax to GM for Service

Vehicle manufacturers often recommend that their vehicles be taken back to the dealership for service and parts, in order to make certain all work is done properly and in accordance to any warranty specifications. Taking your Duramax diesel truck back to GM for service also improves its trade-in and re-sale value because you will have a documented service record proving the quality of care your vehicle has had during its time with you. There are several things you can do to maximize the service you get when you take your diesel truck to GM for service.

Qualifications

Before you take your Duramax diesel to the dealership for servicing, you need to talk to the dealerships service department and make certain that they have a certified Duramax diesel mechanic on staff to work on your trucks engine. Many dealerships and mechanic shops will hire uncertified technicians to do a lot of the minor repair jobs, but if you want the best quality work, you need to make sure everyone who will be touching your vehicle has been officially certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Uncertified mechanics may not have had the proper training or developed the skills they need to perform proper repairs on your vehicle. Improperly done repairs can lead to a number of different headaches down the road.

If your nearest GM dealership does not have an ASE or certified diesel mechanic on staff and available to work on your truck, find a different dealership to take your vehicle to. Make sure to document your request for a certified mechanic in the paperwork when you drop your truck off.

Documentation

Document every communication between yourself and the dealership in writing. When you bring your vehicle in for service, provide the mechanics with a list of problems that you are experiencing to make sure that they are aware of all problems and none will be forgotten during the repair process. Make sure you get a list of every part that was adjusted or changed on your vehicle, as well as information about replacement warranties. Most replacement auto parts come with some form of warranty. If you believe the repair on your vehicle should fall under warranty, read your warranty and bring a copy of it with you when you take your vehicle in for servicing.

Educate Yourself

The best protection for any diesel truck owner who is bringing a vehicle in for repairs is a solid understanding of how the engine, in this case the Duramax, works and what needs to be repaired. Read your owner manual and any recall information to keep tabs on potential problems.

A strong understanding of the problem and solution will make you an educated consumer. Being well educated about your truck means you will be able to understand what your mechanic is telling you is wrong with the vehicle as well as the benefits and potential ramifications of repairs. Do not be afraid to ask your mechanic plenty of questions until you can thoroughly grasp the problem.

Being well educated about your truck will also help you avoid unnecessary work that the dealership may promote in order to increase their profit margin.