Roadside assistance

Breakdown cover is a service that provides assistance to motorists whose vehicles have broken down and need urgent help. In most areas, the service is provided by commercial service providers, with an annual fee to purchase the service. In some areas, there is a government-sponsored monopoly, and the service may come in the form of an insurance policy with premiums, instead of a member subscription fee. In Europe, it is popularly available via each country's national automobile membership association. Many automobile manufacturers offer roadside assistance for their customers, sometimes for free for some period after the purchase of a new vehicle.

United Kingdom AA roadside assistance

The term breakdown cover is most common in the United Kingdom, elsewhere, it may also be referred to as emergency roadside repair or roadside assistance. When communication technology and availability made it practical, a network of emergency phone boxes by the roadside was introduced in some countries. In recent years, the widespread ownership of mobile phones has supplanted the need for an emergency phone network.

Breakdown cover may include jump starting an automobile, towing a vehicle, helping to change a flat tire, providing a small amount of fuel when a vehicle runs out of it, pulling out a vehicle that is stuck in snow or helping people who are locked out of their cars.

Roadside assistance:Good morning!

Woman: Good morning is this the AA?

Roadside assistance: Yes, madam. You are speaking to George. How can I help?

Woman: Well, I hope you can. My car has just broken down on the M20 at junction 12. I’m on the hard shoulder of the motor way and my car just will not start.

Roadside assistance: Don’t worry! We can have someone with you in less than twenty minutes. Can I take some details please?

Woman: Yes.

Roadside assistance: Can you tell me the car registration number and the make of car, please?

Woman: Yes, it is a Renault Espace and the registration number is LM 01 MFP.

Roadside assistance: Thank you.  I will call an engineer now to come and get you on your way.

Woman: Oh, thank you so much.

GOING TO THE GARAGE

When damages to a vehicle happen, the car mechanic is responsible for finding out what the problem is and making sure the repairs get done. Keeping a vehicle in good shape for as long as possible is very important, so maintenance of cars and light trucks is another huge part of the car mechanic’s job. Proper maintenance also prevents further damage. Routine maintenance is performed on all parts of the vehicle, including the engine, transmission, brakes and electrical system. Inspections are also part a mechanic's job. People bring in their vehicles for inspection at regular intervals throughout the year. Businesses also bring in their company vehicle for regular inspection. The purpose of inspection is to make sure all the parts are in good working order and not becoming worn out or faulty.

Mechanics use several different types of tools: hand tools, power tools, computer diagnostic tools and machine tools. Car mechanics regularly use pneumatic wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers,welders and grinders.

Mechanic: I have some bad news for you about your car.
Woman: Oh, no! I thought there may be something wrong. It's not been driving very well.
Mechanic: Yes, we have found one or two things that will need fixing before you can take it away today.
Woman: Well, I need the car today because I have to pick the children up from school later.
Mechanic: Well, we need to change two tyres on the front and your brakes will need replacing.

Woman: Oh dear! How much is this going to cost?
Mechanic: Well, with parts and labour costs you are looking at about £214.
Woman: Well, if it must be done, please go ahead. When should I pay?
Mechanic: You can pay when you collect the car. We will have it ready in about two hours, so if you can come back later it will be ready.
Woman: Ok, shall I come back about 3 o'clock?
Mechanic: Yes, that will be fine.

Story of my battery

On Saturday I wanted to go shopping by car. I sat into the car, I was ready to go but there was a big silence. The engine didn’t start. The battery was run down. On Monday, I went to the mechanic, and I needed to buy another battery. But there was a problem. I didn’t know what kind of I have battery. On Tuesday morning I went to the car in the backyard, I took a sheet of paper and a pencil and I wrote down all the data. On Wednesday morning I gave the car keys to the mechanic and I went to work. After work I went to pay the bill and my car was all right already.