RE: car died

[Khan Klatt <khan@mediaaccess.com>]

At 1:30 PM -0600 11/19/99, mikeandcarmen@pdq.net wrote:
>I guess I'm just a cheap @#$*^%. :)  I figure that with a new battery, the car
>will run for a while even if the alternator is bad (just don't run any
>accessories).  If it was worth it to him, he could get the battery at the
>parts store, & install it in the dealer's parking lot.  He could then drive
>the car to the parts store & have the alternator checked.  If it checks out
>bad, he could either buy a new alternator & change it out at home, or he could
>drive the car back to the dealer & have them finish the job.  Either way, he's
>not out any more money for towing, & he doesn't have to pay $200 for the
>dealer to install a battery.  Of course, for some, that may be too much effort
>for what would probably be a net savings of $150, but like I said, I'm cheap
>that way.
>
>Another alternative is to get a new battery & an inexpensive voltmeter from
>the parts store.  He could then install the new battery & test the alternator
>at the dealership himself.

This all assumes it's a problem with the battery and/or alternator. 
If it's not, then he's out the money for the battery at least, and 
should the problem not be the alternator as well, he's still back to 
square one.

This is all personal choice, but the lesson I learned was the 
following regarding automobiles and repairs:

"Always take the most immediate and most qualified route to have it repaired."

Taking any other route, I have found, increases the overall cost and 
severity of the damage/malfunction, and puts the most inconvenience 
on you. The added $$$ you pay for having someone qualified and 
prepared to do 100% of the work is worth it in my opinion. It goes 
without saying that you must take the car to a service shop/dealer 
you trust is honest and competent for this model to succeed.

-Khan

Khan Klatt                                         khan@mediaaccess.com

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