When a consumer finds that an item she or he bought is faulty or does not li

When a consumer finds that an item she or he bought is faulty or does not live up to the manufacturer’s (1) claim for it, the first step is to present the guarantee at the store of purchase. In most cases, this action will (2) produce results. However, if it does not, there are various means the consumer may use to gain satisfaction. A simple and common method used by many consumers is to complain directly to the store manager. In general, the “higher up” the consumer takes his or her (3) complaint, the faster he or she can expect it to be settled. In such a case, it is usually settled in the consumer’s favor, (4) assuming he or she has a just claim. Consumers should complain in (5) whenever possible, but if they cannot get to the place of purchase, it is acceptable to phone or write the complaint in a letter. Complaining is usually most effective when it is done politely but firmly, and especially when the consumer can (6) demonstrate what is wrong with the item in (7) question. If this cannot be done, the consumer will succeed best by presenting specific information as to what is wrong, (8) rather than by making general statements. The store manager may advise the consumer to write to the manufacturer. If so, the (9) consumer should do this, stating the complaint as politely and as firmly as possible. But if a polite complaint does not achieve the desired result, the consumer can go a step further. She or he can (10) threaten to take the seller to court or report the seller to a private or public organization responsible for protecting consumers’ rights.