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Car Maintenance

Authorizing Work and Asking Questions

The customer approves the proposed work, asks detailed questions about the repairs, parts, or alternatives, and clarifies anything unclear.

Dialogue

Listen and follow along with the conversation

1
John (Male)
Hi Lisa, thanks for going over the inspection report. I'm ready to authorize the work. Just a few questions first.
2
Lisa (Female)
Of course, John. What can I clarify for you?
3
John (Male)
Okay, so for the brake pads and rotors, you're recommending replacing all four. Is that standard practice, or are the rear ones close to needing replacement too?
4
Lisa (Female)
Good question. We typically recommend all four for optimal performance and safety, especially when the front ones are heavily worn. Your rear pads are at about 30%, so while not critical yet, replacing them now ensures balanced braking and saves you a trip later.
5
John (Male)
That makes sense. And the spark plugs? Are those OEM parts, or aftermarket alternatives?
6
Lisa (Female)
For the spark plugs, we use OEM-equivalent parts. They meet or exceed the manufacturer's specifications and come with a good warranty. We find them to be a very reliable and cost-effective option for this model.
7
John (Male)
Okay, that's good to know. And for the tire rotation, is that included in the overall service charge or is it a separate line item?
8
Lisa (Female)
The tire rotation is included in the full service package you chose. It's part of the standard comprehensive check-up.
9
John (Male)
Excellent. That clarifies everything. Please go ahead with all the recommended work. When do you anticipate it will be ready?
10
Lisa (Female)
Great! We'll get started right away. Given the scope of work, we anticipate it will be ready for pick-up by late afternoon, around 4:30 PM. I'll send you a text when it's done.

Vocabulary

Essential words and phrases from the dialogue

authorize

To officially approve or give permission for something to happen, like approving car repairs. Use it when you agree to proceed with a service.

clarify

To make something clear or easier to understand by explaining it. It's useful in conversations when you need more details about a service or product.

brake pads

Parts of a car's braking system that create friction to stop the vehicle. They wear out over time and need replacement for safety.

rotors

The spinning metal discs in a car's brakes that the brake pads press against. Often replaced together with pads when worn.

OEM

Stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer; parts made by the car's original maker or equivalents that match the quality. Common in auto repairs to ensure reliability.

aftermarket

Replacement parts not made by the original manufacturer, often cheaper alternatives. Use when asking about options for car parts.

warranty

A guarantee from the seller that the product will work as promised, often covering repairs for a period. Important for peace of mind with car parts.

tire rotation

Moving tires from one position to another on the car to ensure even wear and longer life. A routine maintenance service.

Key Sentences

Important phrases to remember and practice

I'm ready to authorize the work.

This sentence shows agreement to proceed with a service. It's useful when you've reviewed details and want to give permission. Grammar: Simple present tense for current readiness.

What can I clarify for you?

A polite way to offer help in explaining something unclear. Use it in customer service to invite questions. It demonstrates professional courtesy and uses 'can' for possibility.

Is that standard practice?

Asks if something is the usual or recommended way of doing things. Helpful for understanding norms in repairs. Question form with 'is' for yes/no answers.

That makes sense.

Means you understand and agree with the explanation. A common response in conversations to show comprehension. Informal and versatile for everyday discussions.

Are those OEM parts, or aftermarket alternatives?

Inquires about the type and quality of replacement parts. Useful for comparing options in purchases. Uses 'or' to present choices and plural 'are' for multiple items.

They meet or exceed the manufacturer's specifications.

Describes parts that match or are better than original standards. Good for reassuring customers about quality. Present tense for general facts; 'meet or exceed' is a common phrase.

Is that included in the overall service charge?

Asks if a specific service is part of the total cost. Practical for budgeting repairs. Question structure with 'is' and preposition 'in' for inclusion.

Please go ahead with all the recommended work.

Gives final approval to start the service. Use at the end of discussions to confirm. Imperative 'go ahead' is polite and direct.