15 hours Ago By Jack Mortimer
Drivers have been urged to learn their rights after a new study found more than half of women feel anxious taking their car to a garage for repairs . With the automotive world traditionally being particularly male-dominated, a shocking number of women feel nervous or have experienced sexism from mechanics . To boost confidence and help prevent future cases of sexism, the vehicle dealer Toyota Marin suggested that motorists avoid taking information on face value if they are uncertain, getting a second opinion to be sure.
They advised: "Knowing your rights as a consumer can protect you from being exploited. It can sometimes feel like the easiest option to simply agree with all the work you’re being told needs to be done - like if you went in for an oil change but now you’re being told you need multiple things repaired - but if you feel like you’re being quoted for repairs that seem unnecessary, you have the right to say no. "You are entitled to a clear explanation of the work that needs to be done, as well as the right to refuse unnecessary repairs, and the right to get a second opinion.
" According to to Toyota Marin's study, 60 percent of women admitted to feeling anxious when taking their car to a garage to be repaired. Shockingly, some 48 percent of female drivers said that they have experienced casual sexism from mechanics, such as false information on faults with the vehicle and personal remarks. To help women feel more confident when taking their vehicle to a mechanic and avoid sexist remarks, the dealership recommended that drivers conduct a quick Google search in a bid to understanding the fault they are experiencing.
By researching the fault, Toyota Marin stated that drivers can help to feel more confident and make mechanics think twice before making a sexist remark. They added: "Sexism often thrives on the assumption that women will be passive, so one of the best ways to combat this is to be assertive from the moment you walk in. "Speak clearly and confidently, ask about the repair process, how long it will take, and the parts that will be needed.
Ask questions, and don’t shy away from needing clarification if you don’t understand something." Toyota Marin also recommended that drivers who experience sexism at a mechanic make a report to the management of the business or via an online review. They explained: "If you’ve had a negative experience in a male-dominated space, don’t hesitate to report it.
Make a complaint to management or customer service of the business, and consider sharing your experience in an online review or on social media to warn others. Talking openly can help destigmatize the issue, and empower other women to speak up about their experiences. "But as well as reporting the negative, remember to share positive experiences you’ve had, in order to help other women find more trustworthy mechanics and reputable garages.
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