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.