I have a 1998 Chevy Lumina, my car would not start. Luckily, this all happened in my driveway and not on the highway! I called AAA last night and he tested my battery and alternator, both were in poor condition (the alternator tested in the yellow, about a 12). Before this happened, I left the car running for 10 minutes to warm up (I live in MN), but 3 hours before, my car was running normal. I explained to a family member about what happened and he said, quote, “that doesn’t make any sense”. I moved to a metropolitan area where I do not know anybody personally who can even help me to repair my car. Also, too, I’m worried I was taken advantage of by the local auto technician. Could there be another underlying issue that the technician didn’t even want to take the time to diagnose, such as maybe tightening the alternator belt or just charging the battery altogether? Before this happened, none of my indicator lights came on, such as the battery light or service engine light. Thanks for the help!
Let's assume that the AAA technician knew how to properly test the car battery - if he says it's in poor condition, you should replace it first, then. if your problem persists, you may need to replace the alternator, but that's more expensive, and a battery is simple to replace and easy enough for you to shop around for pricing on, even as a woman :) It's the type of job that should have a very set cost, they won't need to see your car to quote you on it, so call around a few local auto garages, I think you should get it done for about $100.
First, and fore most; some people will take advantage of anyone, including their mother, if given an opportunity. There are bad mechanics AND bad customers, each fighting to win. TRUST is the key word in this situation. Finding a trustworthy, and, reliable mechanic is a chore in and of itself. Secondly, the car in question is twelve years old. All the good stuff has already been sucked out and enjoyed, leaving you a vehicle which could probably use a new one of everything. Luckily the problem you describe has very few related components. The battery, the alternator, the starter, the battery cables, and the alternator belt.So even replacing every component on the list should come in at between $200. and $300.00. Tack on a few hundred bucks for labor costs. Chalk these expenses up in the education column. What will you have learned ? you asked? Well, is the shop clean? Does the mechanic listen to your explanation? Does he treat you with respect? Answer all your questions ect. . the list goes on forever. The easy part is if he fails any one of your tests you can stop going to him. Good luck!
