Have you ever wanted to do your own auto repair? It may seem difficult to repair a car, but once you do it, it’s actually very rewarding. Not only can you save some cash, but you will be extending your car’s life. Read the following tips to see how you can do-it-yourself and enjoy repairing your own vehicle.

Only choose an A.S.E. certified mechanic. An ASE certification means your mechanic has a minimum of two years’ experience in auto repairs. This certification also requires that he or she passes a written test. That means only the best will work on your car.

You need to buy a good battery charger and have it in your vehicle at all times. Dead batteries happen more often than you imagine, and you can help other people if you take a battery charger along in your vehicle. Learn how to find connection points so that you can use the charger with ease.

Always know how much your repairs will cost before handing your car over to a service department. If you do not understand something, have it cleared up with the mechanic before he or she makes the repairs. You want to avoid being surprised with additional charges once the car is fixed.

Ask mechanics if they have worked on your particular make and model of car before contracting with them. If they say that they have, this should be a good indicator that they have some idea of what needs to be done to get your car back into shape.

Regularly check out your radiator. Allow your car to run for a bit and then turn it off and pop open the hood. Do not lift the radiator lid when the engine is running or if it is too hot. Use a dipstick to check the radiator’s fluid level, and remember to always mix water in with your coolant if need be. Some coolants come premixed.

Understand your manual and mark important pages. When you have to get repairs done on your car, you are going to need to be knowledgeable about your car’s information. What you think may be an issue, may not be at all according to the manual.

A record of maintenance and repairs should be in your car. Keeping them in the glove compartment is smart. The auto repair professionals will want to look at those records. This will facilitate quicker diagnostic processes.

Wash your car often so you can prevent rust. All cars are going to rust, so make sure that you wash your vehicle at least once a month. Waxing your car helps protect the paint.

Repair Shop

Do an online search of reviews about your local automotive repair shop. This will tell you everything you need to know about the shop. You can use online reviews to find an auto repair shop that you are comfortable giving your business to.

Keep on hand all of your car’s documentation. It is a good idea to leave these in the glove compartment because you never know when your car has to go to the shop suddenly. Repair professionals may want to see these records for repair purposes. This will facilitate quicker diagnostic processes.

Learn to change your taillights and headlights. It’s easier to do in some cars, but it’s more cost effective than hiring a mechanic. Ask someone you know if they can instruct you on how to do it.

Wiper Blades

OEM parts should be asked for. These are original components from the manufacturer. Generic parts may cost less, but you cannot really tell if they are the best quality. It may seem like you are getting a deal now, but it may end up costing you a lot in the future.

Pay attention to your wiper blades. If you notice your windshield wipers are not working properly, get new ones. You should replace wiper blades at least once a year or more often if you live in an area where rain is commonplace or if you notice your wiper blades are worn out.

Before you settle on a car repair business, talk to friends and family for recommendations. They have used mechanics before and can fill you in on their experiences. Don’t rely entirely on what your friends tell you, though; do your own research. Checking out online customer reviews for a given garage is a must, and it doesn’t take long at all.

Verify that a prospective mechanic is familiar with your specific car. There are many similarities between vehicles but some issues are specific to certain makes and models. If you don’t know, make sure you go to the dealer and pay them the extra money.

Look on your dashboard for any hazard lights that go on. They’re there to assist you, so take advantage of them. Problems will worsen if you simply ignore them.

While your car issues may seem minor, it never hurts to have them checked out by a professional. Sometimes, the smallest issue can escalate to a major problem if not attended to in a timely manner.

If your car needs major repairs, get multiple quotes for the necessary repair. Most shops are honest, but some are not. Look around for reputable shops that specialize in your car’s make. These types of shops will give you the best bang for your buck.

When you get parts replaced on your car, you should pay attention to the warranty that comes with the part. If your mechanic orders parts for you, ask about warranties. See how long they should last and request a contract, too.

If you do not have a lot of money, but need auto repairs, you can visit a vocational school in your area to have the automotive department do repairs. This gives you the option of paying less for a repair while students get the opportunity to practice under a licensed mechanic’s supervision.

Look into an auto repair person that uses their own personal garage. There are many mechanics who work from home who do excellent work and cost less to do the job. This can save you a lot of money and help out someone who may need it, instead of giving it to a big shop.

Read your owner’s manual when you get a new car. To better know your car, you should look over this manual. Maintenance is key, but can only be done if you know what is required.

When you have paid for a new part, ask the mechanic to return the old one to you. If he refuses, it may be because the part was never replaced. This is troublesome and you should tell him so.

You should not have a lot of heavy items on your keychain. The ignition in your car isn’t designed to take a bunch of weight even if your car keys don’t feel that heavy. If you have a key that’s sticking, then you are going to have to replace your tumblers and then get rid of your fun keychains.

Get a written estimate if the quote is much over one hundred dollars. Having written proof can help you in the future. In addition, your mechanic will likely not perform unnecessary repairs whenever he or she already has a written quote.

You can repair your car if you dedicate yourself to the process. While the sights under a car’s hood may seem foreign to you, a bit of education is all you need in order to do your own repairs. Keep the advice provided here nearby so that you can turn to them whenever you need assistance. Many auto repairs can be made by taking advantage of these tips.

Always know when your oil should be switched out. The oil should be replaced after so many miles, and it is important that you keep track. When you skip an oil change, your car’s life is shortened.