After a quote: cabin filter / flush / “while you’re in there”

0 / 5 beginner steps

1. 01Ask for a photo of the old partCabin filter, air filter, wipers, pads. A gray rectangle in a dirty box is not a story — a used filter in the tech’s hand is. If they cannot photo it, wait.Say: Text me a photo of the old cabin filter in your hand. Then give me the parts-plus-labor number.
2. 02Cabin filter is often a real yesIf it is packed or wet, replace it. You can often do this in a glove box. Price the part separately. Decline “we have to remove the glove box, it’s $180 labor” until they explain that car.Say: If labor is more than a glove-box clip job, tell me why on this model before I say yes.
3. 03Name the fluid and the machineCoolant, brake, trans, power steering. “Flush” vs drain-and-fill are different jobs. A trans flush on a high-mile unit that has never been serviced can be a bad idea. Ask the book interval and the method.Say: Is this a drain-and-fill or a machine flush? What interval is in the book, and what is the fluid spec?
4. 04“While you’re in there” needs a new totalNew work, new authorization, new out-the-door. Silence on a voicemail is not a yes. A 10% “since we’re here” is still a number you can refuse.Say: Text the new out-the-door. I do not authorize extras from a voicemail.
5. 05Paste the RO into quote defenseWhen the paper exists, mark padded lines. Shop supplies, nitrogen, engine cleaner, and a cabin filter at restaurant prices are the usual grease-pencil targets.Say: I will read the ticket line by line. I am paying what I authorized.