Identify the customer and vehicle
Record a customer contact and vehicle registration. Note an odometer reading when it is useful for the job and agreed with the customer.
Write the issue in the customer’s words
Separate the customer’s reported symptoms from a mechanic’s diagnosis. Keep that distinction visible so that an intake note is not mistaken for a technical conclusion.
Agree the next step before work begins
Confirm what will be inspected, how an estimate will be shared and who can approve additional work. Keep customer authorization and specialist records in the process your garage actually uses.