B1English

At the Mechanic

These phrases will help you explain car problems to a mechanic and discuss repair estimates, parts, and costs.

Key Phrases

Voice
Describing a noise · 2 ways to say it

It's making a strange noise under the hood.

casual

US - 'hood' is the front part of the car.

I've noticed a weird sound under the bonnet.

neutral

UK - 'bonnet' is the British word for hood.

Reporting a warning light · 2 ways to say it

My check engine light is on.

casual

US - refers to the dashboard warning.

The engine warning light has come on.

neutral

UK - refers to the dashboard warning.

Asking for an estimate · 2 ways to say it

How much is this going to cost?

casual

Could you give me an estimate before you start?

neutral

An estimate is an approximate guess of the final cost.

Asking about time · 2 ways to say it

When do you think it'll be ready?

casual

How long will the repairs take?

neutral
Asking about parts

Will you need to order any parts for this?

neutral
Approving the work · 2 ways to say it

Go ahead and fix it.

casual

Please go ahead with the repairs.

polite
Picking up the car

I'm here to pick up my car.

neutral
Asking about cost · 2 ways to say it

How much do I owe you?

casual

Could I get the final bill, please?

polite

Practice Dialogue

Customer
Hi. My car is making a strange noise under the hood, and it shakes a bit.
Mechanic
Right. Has the check engine light come on?
Customer
No, it hasn't. But it sounds sort of like a rattle.
Mechanic
Okay, it might be the brakes. We'll need to run some tests first.
Customer
Sure. Could you give me an estimate before you actually start the repairs?
Mechanic
Absolutely. If it needs new parts, we will call you first.
Customer
Great. How long do you think the tests will take?
Mechanic
Give us a couple of hours. I'll call you when we find out the problem.

More Everyday Services (B1)

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