In some sense, going to your mechanic is a little like going to your doctor. Just like you describe symptoms to your doctor, you also need to describe your car’s symptoms to your mechanic. Just as you think about the questions your doctor asks you in order to pinpoint your problem, a mechanic needs to get the same information about the problems with your car. For example, when reporting a symptom to your doctor, you will describe where the problem is, what kind of pain it is, how long it has been going on, and other information that might be useful.

In the same way, take careful note of the behavior of your car. Remember both the changes in the car’s behavior, as well as any associated noise that happens at the same time. For example, the simple problem of a flat tire has a distinct flapping noise, and is also accompanied by a very definite steering problem. Not all problems have both components. One of the first signs of a CV joint problem is a simple clicking noise as the car makes a sharp right hand or left-hand turn. However, many car problems have both a behavioral and sound component to them, so listen carefully and feel for any differences in the running of the car. (If a CV joint problem is left unattended, there can be a significant performance difference when one wheel seizes up and no longer turns, but we hope that the car is not left to get into that condition!)

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