Auto repairs can end up being very expensive. The cost of parts are significant, but the labor costs can add up as well. Do you want to save money by performing the tasks on your own? Read these tips to save yourself money on car repairs.
Get a reliable battery charger and be sure it is always in your car. Dead batteries are common, and a good battery charger will come in handy more than once. Locate the points the battery charger should be connected to so you can easily jump start your own vehicle.
You don’t always have to call a mechanic when your car is giving your problems. There are a few things that you can fix easily yourself. If you wish to take a shot at it yourself, get online and see if you’re able to figure out what’s going on. If it’s easy, you can repair the problem yourself, and save money too.
Regularly check your radiator. Allow your car to run for just a few minutes, then shut off the engine, and open up the hood. You never want to open up the radiator if your car is still running. Check the amount of fluid in your radiator with your dipstick and remember to mix the coolant with some water.
Do you understand what the estimated cost for your fix is? If you need clarification, ask the service advisor for additional information before repairs commence. You don’t want to be surprised by unexpected charges.
Be wary of unscrupulous mechanics who make unnecessary repairs to your vehicle. A reliable mechanic will tell you if any parts are worn down and need replacing. But, they should ask for your approval before replacing them. Do not take your care twice to a mechanic who performed some unnecessary repairs.
When you are experiencing car trouble, you may not have to call a mechanic. Some of the work can be done on your own, as there are problems that are relatively easy to repair. You can research the problem online in order to find out more about it. If the job is not complicated, make the repairs yourself to save money.
It is a good idea to use referrals to find a decent mechanic. See if co-workers, friends, neighbors, or family members have any recommendations. This will let you figure out what kind of price you’re dealing with and if you’ll be satisfied with the work that is done. People will let you know if their experiences were good or bad and how honest the auto repair shop was with them.
Ask for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. OEM parts are parts that are made by the manufacturer. While generic could be a cheaper option, you don’t know how they will perform in the future. It can appear like a deal right now and cost twice the amount later as OEM components to begin with.
Always be prepared for a flat tire by having a spare tire, jack and tire iron in your vehicle at all times. Nearly every car has them equipped standard. There is nothing worse than being stranded far from home and having to get an expensive tow. Changing that tire yourself can save you the cost of towing.
Basic Tools
Your repair person should be upfront and honest with you. If they do not answer you directly, you may want to find someone else. You want to be able to trust the person doing your repairs, so go elsewhere.
Assemble a DIY auto repair tool kit to keep in the trunk of your car. Make sure you have something to change a tire. You will need to get a lug wrench and a jack if you don’t already have them. Basic tools such as screw drivers, wrenches, socket wrenches, torque wrench and other basic tools are also handy to have. Never skimp when buying tools. Invest in quality tools that will not break as you perform repairs on your vehicle.
Nearly all cars will need to be repaired at some point. This does not mean you always need to hire a mechanic to get the work done. You can save a lot by performing some repairs yourself. Why not give it a shot using this advice?
Make sure your mechanic knows how to work on your make of vehicle. There can be a lot of differences between vehicles, even though the base components are similar. If you’re not sure, go to the dealership for repair.