Service Center Standard and Procedures
December 10, 2017
All MI pilots have checklists for every aspect of flying. They always use their checklists even if they only have two steps on them. They do this simply because a checklist is a great way to not forget steps. It is also how they can assure a predictable outcome.
That is why Livonia automotive service centers including Auto Lab Livonia have procedural standards for each service they perform. Auto Lab Livonia technicians are trained step by step. And they perform the procedures step by step, the same way each time. By training to procedural standards, MI service centers can assure a quality outcome. The job is done right every time and Livonia customers leave happy with how their vehicle performs.
Each company trains its technicians to standards. The MI automotive industry as a whole is very committed to standards of excellence and encourages individual MI service center operators to apply them to every vehicle they service.
An example is how Auto Lab Livonia grades problems and communicates their recommendations. If your service advisor tells you that a repair or replacement is required it must meet the following criteria:
The part no longer performs its intended purpose
The part does not meet a design specification
The part is missing
They may suggest repair or replacement:
If the part is close to the end of its useful life - just above discard specifications or likely to fail soon
To address a customer need or request - like for better ride or increased performance
To comply with maintenance recommended by the vehicle manufacturer
Based on the technician's informed experience
Here are some examples:
An exhaust pipe has rusted through and is leaking. Replacement is recommended because the part has failed. If the pipe were rusted, corroded or weak but not leaking, the technician may suggest it be replaced because it is near the end of its useful life and replacing it now may be more convenient for the customer.
Suppose a customer wants to improve his car's handling, but his shocks haven't failed. The may suggest replacement of the shocks to satisfy the customer's wishes.
Under these guidelines the Livonia car repair shop must refuse partial service of a required repair if the repair creates or continues an unsafe condition.
Let's say a customer has a cracked brake rotor. This is a dangerous condition that must be repaired. If the customer does not want to replace the rotor but instead just wants new brake pads installed, the shop must ethically refuse the partial repair. That can be an upsetting conversation, but understanding that Livonia service centers operate under service standards and procedures is comforting. You want your service to be done right and to have confidence in your technician's recommendations.
The MI automotive service industry and Auto Lab Livonia want the best for you and for you to keep coming back.
Auto Lab Livonia
36251 Five Miles Rd
Livonia, MI 48154
734-432-6000
http://www.autolablivonia.com
Need Service?
More articles from Auto Lab Livonia

The Truth about Tire Pressure (Tire Inflation)
April 27, 2025
Most light vehicles (under 10,000 pounds/4,500 kg) in North America sold from 2008 model year on have a feature that many people are confused about. It's the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). You may have some experience with it yourself if you own a newer vehicle. Vehicles with TPMS hav... More

Lubricate Driveshaft
April 20, 2025
See if any of these are happening to your vehicle. You feel it vibrating excessively underneath when its running, or you hear strange clunking, grating, or grinding sounds coming from beneath. Maybe its hard to turn your vehicle, or you can hear squeaking when youre going slow. Perhaps you fee... More

Rubber Match (Tire Replacement)
April 13, 2025
A set of new tires isn't probably high on anyone's list of exciting purchases. But since your life is literally riding on them, it's probably a good idea to know when it's time for you to buy new ones. If you've been feeling your vehicle slipping more in wet weather or it takes a longer distance... More