Give the garage a clear description of the problem or the work you want done. It is best to do it in writing. If the car is in for a regular service, make sure you know what this includes. Tell the garage if you want the manufacturer's recommended service carried out, and agree between you whether any items can be left out. Bear in mind that if you do have items left out it may invalidate any warranty.

Get a quotation (a firm price), or at least an estimate (an informed guess), preferably in writing, for the work you want done. Check whether costs for labour, parts and VAT are all included. Ask if workmanship and parts are guaranteed.

Find out how long the job will take or agree on a set time for collection, and check how the garage will want you to pay the bill.

Leave a telephone number and tell the garage to ask for your permission to carry on if the cost is likely to exceed the estimated cost, or if a further problem is identified.

Once the job is finished, get a detailed invoice listing all work carried out, showing parts and labour costs.