If you drive a car with any degree of regularity, it is important to understand the fundamentals of quality auto repair. However, a great number of people do not even know the basics of auto repair. This article contains several great tips you can use to keep your car running perfectly.
Battery Charger
Always keep and eye on the radiator to make sure that it is full. Simply run the engine a few minutes and then cut the engine and lift the hood. Don’t open your radiator if your car is running. Use a dipstick to check the amount of fluid in the radiator. You should also make sure to mix coolant fluid with water before you pour it into your radiator.
Get yourself a good battery charger, making sure to keep it inside the car. Dead batteries happen more often than you imagine, and you can help other people if you take a battery charger along in your vehicle. Before you drive again, figure out how to use it properly.
Don’t take an emergency car kit for granted. This kit should contain a number of items, including tools, flares, a gas container and an emergency battery charger. In addition, you should have a flashlight with fully charged batteries, a blanket and other things.
Ask the technician at the repair shop you are considering if they have done work on the same make and model of vehicle before. If they have, there is a better chance they can help resolve any issues you have.
You need to know about all costs before handing your keys over. If you need clarification, ask the service advisor for additional information before repairs commence. Don’t end up surprised by extra fees.
If you are considering working with a new auto repair shop, ask the mechanic if they are experienced in working with your specific vehicle. A mechanic who has experience with the make and model you are driving will be able to diagnose issues quickly.
A good referral makes it much easier to locate a trustworthy mechanic. Ask friends, family or co-workers for 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 what kind of things they had to deal with and if the person was honest.
Make sure you have both a spare tire and a jack in your trunk. Many newer cars already have them. You would hate to be stuck out in the road and be forced to spend money on a tow. You can save a lot of money by performing tasks yourself.
Put together an auto repair kit and keep it in your car. You need to include a complete tire changing kit. If you lack a lug wrench and a jack, purchase both. You should also include a screwdriver set, a ratchet set, an adjustable wrench and a torque wrench. Don’t buy inexpensive tools. Invest in high-quality tools that you will own forever.
Know your auto manual very well, or at least dog ear important pages. The auto repair shop people will ask you specific information about your car. You could even find the answer to a problem in your car manual and fix the problem yourself.
Driving cars means you must be responsible for keeping them in good condition. You need to educate yourself about auto repairs and maintenance to do a good job. Take these ideas and apply them next time you need to repair you car. You should be able to save yourself time and money in the future. Good luck.