A car can be a time and money sink if it is not taken care of properly. Other than becoming familiar with the brand and model of vehicle that you own, you have other tips and tricks to learn. Keep reading to find out more.

Prior to letting a mechanic touch your vehicle, ensure that they are A.S.E certified. This certification lets you know that your mechanic has at least 2 years of experience and has passed a test. This type of mechanic is the best choice for your vehicle.

Ask mechanics if they have worked on your particular make and model of car before contracting with them. If they have, there is a good chance they will be able to repair your car.

Each time you get your vehicle repaired, no matter what the reason, be sure you have a record of it. If you experience future problems with your vehicle, this past record will help the mechanic in diagnosing the problems. Without them, you may end up paying for more diagnostic tests, and it will be more difficult to learn where the issue is stemming from.

Pay Attention

You must keep good track of all your car records. Keep these documents in a solid folder inside your glove compartment. Auto service experts may need to refer to them. They aid in speeding up the diagnosing process.

Pay attention to any red flags involving your auto repair technician. If they talk to you in circles or they don’t pay attention to your questions, you may not be dealing with the best person. Since it is important to trust the person who is repairing your car, don’t hesitate to look elsewhere for a person to repair your vehicle.

You should always keep a jack and a spare tire with you at all times. They are usually included when you buy a car. If you get stuck in an unknown area, these items are crucial to have. It is simpler and cheaper to do the work yourself.

Test out your car before paying for its repairs. If you don’t do this, you may still have an issue after you get it home.

Tool Kit

Keep a tool kit for doing auto repairs in your trunk. The basic tools you will need include the tire changing equipment which should have come with your car. You need to get yourself a lug nut wrench and a jack, as well. Your tool kit should contain these items: socket wrenches, ratcheting tools, a wrench for torque and one that is adjustable, and both a Phillips and a flat head screwdriver as well. Never buy cheap tools. Purchase solid tools that are resistant to breakage.

Buy OEM parts. OEM parts are parts that are made by the manufacturer. Generic are cheaper, but also less reliable. What saves you a bit of money in the short term, may end up costing you dearly in the long term.

If your car needs major repairs, get multiple quotes for the necessary repair. While most mechanics can be trusted, you might wind up being charged more than is necessary. Seek out shops that are reputable and are good with your vehicle’s make and model. These shops can better understand the needed repairs for your vehicle.

Wiper Blades

Make sure the mechanic can work on your particular car. While the basic components are all the same, there is going to to be a big difference in the way say a Hummer versus a Smart car utilize the space under the hood. If you don’t think he has, go to the dealer.

Do not neglect your wiper blades. If your windshield wipers are no longer keeping the rain off your windshield, or if they make noise or leave streaks, it is time to replace them. Wiper blades ought to be replaced yearly. If your area is rainy or blades become worn, they may need to be replaced more frequently.

Keep an eye on the lights located on the dash, and make sure you are aware of what they all mean. Use them to your advantage, they’re put there to guide you. Ignoring them for extended periods of time will only make the problem much worse than it already is.

Your wiper blades should never be forgotten about. If your windshield wipers are not cleaning your windshield probably or if they make a lot of noise, you need to replace them. Wiper blades should at least be changed yearly, and sometimes you need to do this more often.

Just because it is winter does not mean you shouldn’t wash your car. Although you may think there is no point to it, your car is more likely to get damaged in the winter. Salt and sand can tear away at the surface of your car. Be sure to dry your car prior to driving your car so icing does not occur.

Whenever you get gas, check the pressure in your tires. Make sure there are no objects embedded in your tires at the same time. If there appears to be a problem, have it checked out as soon as possible. Do not take a chance by driving on damaged tires.

Try finding a reliable mechanic who works from their own garage. They may have learned through experience but still be competent, and are likely to have a lower labor rate. You can support small business and save hundreds on the cost of the repair.

As stated earlier, it can be to your benefit to learn basic auto repair techniques. In addition to being able to help others and yourself, you can save money. Keep the tips you’ve read in mind so that you can perform those repairs.