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Thursday, August 23, 2012

GETTING A CAR REPAIRED


A. To explain that something is wrong.

 
  • It isn’t working.
  • It’s not running properly.
  • It’s broken down: It won’t start.
  • There’s something wrong with the ignition.
  • My car won’t start.
  • Could you change the battery, please?
  • Could you look over my radiator?

B. To say what you think is wrong.

 
  • I think it’s the fuel pump.
  • It may be the electrical wiring.
  • The dynamo has gone wrong before.
  • The battery is dead.
  • The tyre’s flat.

C. To find out if it’s the right garage.

 
  • Do you handle this type of car?
  • Do you keep spares for this type of car?
  • Can you do anything with it?
  • Can you have a look at it?

D. To ask for recommendations.

 
  • Is there a garage near here, that can do it?
  • Is there a service station for this type of car near here?
  • Can you recommend a garage/mechanic nearby?
  • Do you know a garage/mechanic near here?

E. To ask how much and how long it will be.

 
  • When can you do it?
  • When will it be ready?
  • Can you give me an estimate?
  • How much do you think it will cost?
  • How long do you think it will take?
  • Can you give me an idea how much/how long?

F. To tell the garage when you need it.


  • Can you do it immediately?
  • I need the car tomorrow.
  • I must have it by the weekend.

G. Car Repairs: Dialogue


  • Could you look over my car?
  • What’s the matter?
  • Well, I don’t know.
  • I can look at it now if you can wait.
  • My car won’t start.
  • Press the starter button.
  • Nothing happens when I press the starter.
  • Then your battery is dead.
  • Could you help me for a moment, please?
  • What can I do for you?
  • Could you look over my radiator?
  • I’ll check it after I help that other man?
  • What’s your brother doing?
  • He’s fixing the motor of the car.
  • Does he need any help?
  • I don’t think so.
  • Could you look over my car?
  • What’s the matter?
  • Well, don’t know.
  • I can look at it now if you can wait.
  • Could you change my right tyre, please? It’s flat.
  • Certainly. Do you want us to fix it too?
  • Would you please?
  • We’ll have it ready for you tomorrow morning.

H. Driving a Car


  • Why don’t we park the car there?
  • That’s a no-parking zone.
  • There are parking meters in the next block.
  • Let’s see if we can find a space there then.
  • You’d better turn left at the next corner.
  • I can’t – no left turn.
  • Then we’ll have to drive around the block.
  • It looks like it.
  • You’re driving too fast.
  • What’s the speed limit?
  • It’s fifty miles per hour.
  • Then, I’m under the limit.
  • How do you like your new car?
  • Great! I really like the automatic shift.
  • Does it have power steering?
  • Yes, and it’s got power brakes too.
  • You drive very well.
  • Thanks. I always try to be cautious.
  • You are, but best of all, you drive very smoothly.
  • Steady pressure on the accelerator and brakes is important.


 

SPOKEN ENGLISH