Every car owner understands the stress involved with auto repair. You either spend extra money for an auto repair shop to solve the problem, or you use your energy and time to fix it yourself. Both solutions have their pros and cons, and you should learn more about them by reading this article.
Be sure and regularly check your radiator. Let the car idle for a short period first, but only long enough to let the fluid circulate. Never, ever open the radiator while the car is still on. Look to see what the fluid level is (use a dipstick), and remember that coolant needs to have a bit of water added prior to entering your radiator.
Ask a mechanic any questions you may have regarding your car when bringing it in to their shop. You should ask things specific to the problem that has arisen and how you can take preventive action going forward. Prevention is a great way to save lots of money.
Inquire as to whether the mechanic has had previous experience working on your specific vehicle model before. If they have worked on the same type vehicle you have, they will know which areas to check first on your car.
Make sure that you wash your car frequently to reduce rust and corrosion. Cars are all destined to rust, but the process can be slowed by keeping salt and chemicals away from the paint whenever you can. Make sure you regularly wax your car so that you protect the paint.
Check the radiator regularly. Start your car, wait a few minutes and shut it off so you can safely inspect the radiator. Never open the radiator while the car is on. Check the radiator fluids using a dipstick and remember to always mix the coolant with water before putting it in the radiator.
Look up reviews online for body shops in your area. This will tell you everything you need to know about the shop. Use this information to choose a shop that you’re comfortable with giving money to.
Ask for OEM parts. Those are the original parts from the manufacturer. Generic parts may cost less, but you cannot really tell if they are the best quality. They may initially be a deal, but the generic parts may make you pay more in the long run.
Look over the manual that came with your car. If you have to get an auto repair, the mechanics will need to know specifics from the manual that are unique to your car. You could even find the answer to a problem in your car manual and fix the problem yourself.
Always try to figure out the problem with your car before you bring it in for repairs. You can save time and money if the problem is correctly diagnosed, and finding a reliable mechanic will also be easier. An unscrupulous mechanic may exaggerate the problem or diagnose nonexistent ones to charge you more.
Tool Kit
Be mindful whether additional repairs recommended are really necessary. A mechanic that is good will notify you of parts that show signs of deterioration and will soon need replacement, but they shouldn’t replace it without having your approval. Never take your vehicle to a mechanic that preforms unnecessary repairs.
Assemble a DIY auto repair tool kit to keep in the trunk of your car. You should definitely have the tools necessary to change a tire, if you need to. You will need to get a lug wrench and a jack if you don’t already have them. 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. Do not waste money by getting cheap tools. Instead, buy better quality, sturdy tools that will not break when you need them to repair something.
Never forget about your wiper blades. You need new windshield wipers if the ones you have are making noises and leaving streaks on the glass. You should replace them yearly, but you may need to do it twice a year if you are located in a rainy area.
Ask for parts that are classified as OEM parts. These parts are issued by the manufacturer of your vehicle. Generic are cheaper, but also less reliable. It can appear like a deal right now and cost twice the amount later as OEM components to begin with.
Avoid fluffy, silly keychains, or find a way to separate your auto key from that bunch of keys on the chain! You don’t want to put all that extra weight on the car’s ignition. Heavy keys become sticky keys which leads to tumbler replacement.
Do not start working on DIY projects unless you are sure of yourself. You need someone assisting you so that there is an emergency plan in place. Buy good quality tools that will not break easily. This is very important for the tools you need to change a tire. Make sure that the jack in your car can securely hold up the vehicle so you are safe while using it. Err on the side of caution with a hydraulic floor jack, specifically one that has safety-tested and approved stands.
When taking your car to the mechanic for repairs, never leave valuables in the car. The technicians may have to move out these things to fix your car, and they cannot be held liable if anything goes missing. You want to remove items from your trunk also.
Auto repairs generally are not fun, but you can make things go better than expected. Use what you’ve learned here to make your experience with auto repair a lot easier. You are going to be very pleased with the results.