How to Order Service Repairs From Your Dealer

From time to time, especially before you learn to do some repair work yourself, you will need to have your dealer repair your boat, motor or trailer. It is important that you be able to accurately communicate the service that you require so that it gets done to your satisfaction and that you avoid any surprises when the bill arrives.

Here is what your dealer needs to know:

1. What the problem is. Be as accurate as possible and let him know what you think is wrong, when it happens and if the problem began suddenly or was progressive. Remember, the dealer's technician is a bit like a detective. He not only needs to fix what's broken, he needs to find out what caused the problem to begin with, so don't hold back on the information.
2. What you are willing to spend to fix the problem. Come to an agreement on what the repair is likely to cost. Also let him know that, if it is going to exceed the agreed-upon amount, he should call you for approval to proceed. Also, agree upon whether or not the repair will be covered by warranty or insurance or if you'll pay for it out of your pocket.
3. Where the repair will be done. Some dealers have a service van for routine fixes, while others will require you to bring the boat in to the shop. Some major repairs will also require in-shop service. It's a good idea to know ahead of time what the dealer's capabilities are. If you have a large pontoon moored in a slip at your summer home, then a dealer with a service van will be a must. He may also have pickup service with his own trailer for an additional charge.
4. When you need your boat back. The biggest disappointment is not having your boat ready for your next big outing, so get a solid agreement regarding when the repairs will be completed. Also, give the dealer a bit of a break and bring the problem to him with enough time to order parts and complete the repair and testing. Don't forget: There may be other customers ahead of you.

Once everything is settled on your repair, request a copy of the work order.

Your relationship with your servicing dealer is very important to you and should be cultivated ahead of time. A good way to do this is to purchase most of your boating needs from him and, while you are there, set up a maintenance program so that he knows you are an important customer.

Find out what his capabilities are as well as his hours of operation and whether or not he has emergency week-end service.

Print Article