The Map Process - Overview Of Service Requirements And Suggestions

It is MAP policy that all exhaust, brake, steering, suspension, wheel alignment, drive-train, engine performance and maintenance, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and electrical services be offered and performed under the standards and procedures specified in these sections.

Before any service is performed on a vehicle, an inspection of the appropriate system must be performed. The results of this inspection must be explained to the customer and documented on an inspection form. The condition of the vehicle and its components will indicate what services/part replacements may be "Required" or "Suggested". In addition, suggestions may be made to satisfy the requests expressed by the customer.

When a component is suggested or required to be repaired or replaced, the decision to repair or replace must be made in the customer's best interest, and at his or her choice given the options available.

This section lists the various parts and conditions that indicate a required or suggested service or part replacement. Although this list is extensive, it is not fully inclusive. In addition to this list, a technician may make a suggestion. However, any suggestions must be based on substantial and informed experience or the vehicle manufacturer's recommended service interval and must be documented. However, any suggestions must be documented and must be based on substantial and informed experience or the vehicle manufacturer's recommended service interval. NOTE: Vehicle manufacturer service intervals are often categorized as either Normal or Severe. Frequently, motorists are unaware that their driving patterns and habits meet the criteria for following Severe Service schedules. Severe Service is generally defined as, but not limited to one or more of the following conditions: Driving in stop-and-go traffic; frequent short trips; high-speed driving; extreme temperatures; towing or hauling.

Some conditions indicate that service or part replacement is required because the part in question is no longer providing the function for which it is intended, does not meet a vehicle manufacturer's design specification or is missing.

• Example:  An exhaust pipe has corroded severely and has a hole in it through which exhaust gases are leaking. Replacement of the exhaust pipe in this case is required due to functional failure.
• Example:  A brake rotor has been worn to the point where it measures less than the vehicle manufacturer's discard specifications. Replacement of the rotor is required because it does not meet design specifications.

Some conditions indicate that a service or part replacement is suggested because the part is close to the end of its useful life or addresses a customer's need, convenience or request. If a customer's vehicle has one of these conditions, the procedure may be only to suggest service.

• Example:  An exhaust pipe is rusted, corroded or weak, but no leaks are present. In this case, the exhaust pipe has not failed. However, there is evidence that the pipe may need replacement in the near future. Replacement of the pipe may be suggested for the customer's convenience in avoiding a future problem.
• Example:  The customer desires improved ride and/or handling, but the vehicle's shocks or struts have not failed. In this case, replacement may be suggested to satisfy the customer's wishes. In this case, replacement of the shocks or struts may not be sold as a requirement.

A customer, of course, has the choice of whether or not a shop will service his or her vehicle. He or she may decide not to follow some of your suggestions. When a repair is required, a MAP shop must refuse partial service on that system if, in the judgment of the service provider, proceeding with the work could create or continue an unsafe condition. When a procedure states that required or suggested repair or replacement is recommended, the customer must be informed of the generally acceptable repair/replacement options whether or not performed by the shop.

The following reasons may be used for required and suggested services. These codes are shown in the "Code" column of the MAP Uniform Inspection & Communications Standards that follow: