Speed_bump

I've been reading some articles about diagnosing issues, TSB's, and warranty work with the dealer. A couple of times now I've come across articles that suggest you do not advise your dealer of TSB's as you will come off as a nutjob, and be more likely to elicit an eyeroll than good service.

I don't understand this mentality. If I have a symptom that is difficult to replicate for the dealer, but I find a TSB that describes the symptom, why wouldn't I reference it? Providing I do it respectfully, shouldn't a service department be grateful for a customer providing this info to help narrow down possible issues? I would think this would be better than nothing.

Kingofwylietx

I wouldn't have any problem mentioning a TSB if it fit the symptoms I was seeing.

stainlessman

If I got a recall notice. And I did a few weeks ago. I'd let the dealer know. But the service bulletin is not a recall then I'd mention it. The dealer is human. Not a Ford encyclopedia of everything. I'm sure with ALL the models and issues its just not reasonable to think they know every TSB issued.

nampa45

I would have no problem mentioning a TSB to the dealer if it meets the symptoms my truck is experiencing. I don't expect a service writer to know everything and this will give him and the mechanic a point to start from and the ability to research the problem and see if it matches the TSB.

SixShooter14

I agree that the dealer service dept. should be grateful that you are helping them help you. However some people have egos and don't want you telling them how to do their job. And a lot of dealers don't exactly exude a willingness to help.

tcp2

Every "service writer" I've ever had the misfortune of meeting seems to be an ex-con just released from prison for fraud. The amount of crap that spews from their mouth sphincter, and their endless ridiculous up-selling makes me avoid dealers unless it's a safety recall issue. I've heard them tell unsuspecting customers the worst lies. They would sell their family for a buck.

All Hat No Cattle

Several posters in this thread use the term "mention a TSB". If that means handing them a printed copy of the TSB, with the appropriate parts highlighted, then that is the correct procedure. It makes it very hard to deny.

But if it means that you "mention" that you heard about the TSB, and think it applies to you, good luck with that.

If it is not in writing, it is not. Documentation Rules.

moparado

I totally agree with that. ^
Provide the service manager with a hard copy of the TSB.
Then watch him squirm and try to weasal out of performing the TSB.

All Hat No Cattle

LOL. And have a little note pad in one hand and a pen in the other. At least look like you are actively taking notes.

fang2015

And, put forth documented issues that point to that TSB. In other words, make a case for their attention. It's not getting easier with these dealers. Good luck getting a "tech" that will actually pay attention to your documentation and try to figure something out. Reliable and trustworthy Ford dealer service is getting hard to find. Disappointing to me as it wasn't that long ago (OK I am old - maybe 20 years ago) that Ford dealer service was stellar. It was a compelling reason to buy the Ford product - end up with a problem vehicle, the dealer will figure it out and fix it. On the other hand, imagine it is also very hard to figure out issues with these overly engineered and complex vehicles.