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Dear Tom and Ray:

On behalf of all women who have to fend for themselves when dealing with mechanics, I'd like some advice on how to get a modicum of respect. If I were to pull a bum off the street and have him accompany me to the mechanic, I'd get a heck of a lot more consideration than I do when I take my car to the mechanic alone. What gives with these guys? Carrisa

Ray: Well of course mechanics would be respectful if you're accompanied by a bum off the street. That's called professional courtesy. You never act disrespectfully to one of your own. That's the same reason sharks won't eat lawyers.

Tom: Seriously, Carrisa, there are plenty of shops where women are treated fairly and respectfully. And if your mechanics don't take you seriously, or act as though you can't possibly understand what's wrong with your car, then dump them. They don't deserve your business.

It's NEVER cheaper in the long run to buy a new car. Want proof? Order Tom and Ray's pamphlet How to Buy a Used Car: Things That Detroit and Tokyo Don't Want You to Know. To order, send (check or money order) to Ruin, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. You can also order online.

© 1994 by Tom and Ray Magliozzi and Doug Berman Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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