
Knowing exactly what to do in auto repairs doesn’t just come naturally. This is why it is so important to at least understand the basics of auto repair. With your car being such an important investment, making repairs on it can be quite nerve-wracking. These tips will help you deal with the situation better if it comes up again.
Check your radiator frequently. Let the car run a while, shut off the engine and then pop the hood. Do not open the radiator if the car is running. Check the fluid in your radiator and always mix water with the coolant before adding it.
Find an ASE certified mechanic if you need some repairs. This certification guarantees that the mechanic has been tested and has more than two years of experience. This ensures that you have a capable person working on your car.
Know what your costs will be before handing your keys over to the mechanic. If you don’t understand something, clarify your concerns with the mechanic or service adviser before they work on the car. This will give you a good idea of what you will be paying.
Make sure the mechanic can work on your particular car. Cars vary greatly by make and model so it is important that your mechanic is familiar with your make and model of car. If you cannot be sure, just take the car to a dealership.
You should wash your car often to avoid rust. All cars are going to rust, so make sure that you wash your vehicle at least once a month. Make sure you regularly wax your car so that you protect the paint.
Basic Tools
Always have a repair kit located in your car; you can put one together yourself. For instance, if anything dealing with tire changes came with the car, have this in your car. Get a lug wrench and jack if you do not have one yet. Basic tools such as screw drivers, wrenches, socket wrenches, torque wrench and other basic tools are also handy to have. Avoid cheap tools. You want tools that are reliable and up to the task at hand.

Take the time to read your car manual and know the basics of how your car works. The auto repair shop people will ask you specific information about your car. You might even find some easy solutions for the issues you have been encountering.
Do not let a mechanic work on your car before knowing about their prices and how much they charge for labor. Some repair shops display their rates, so read them carefully and be sure to ask about anything you don’t fully understand. Make sure that you know exactly how you are going to be billed. Some shops provide repair time estimates established by manufacturers. You may find that a repair that is deemed minor may take all day.
Check the tire pressure each time you fill up on gas. Be sure your tires do not have something embedded in them. Any problems should be repaired pronto. Don’t drive with bad tires on your car.
Always ask your mechanic for OEM parts. This means that you are getting manufacturer made parts and not replicas. While they often cost a little more, they typically work better for longer periods of time. It might be a great deal, but if you have to continue to replace the part, it is not going to be a good deal in the long run.
When you get parts replaced on your car, you should pay attention to the warranty that comes with the part. A mechanic should be asked about if they know whether or not there’s a warranty on any of the parts they’re going to order. Inquire as to how long it is for and get a printed copy.
It’s not uncommon to drop your vehicle off at a garage, only to return and discover a few expenses have been tacked on. The purpose is to strike a bargain and convince you that you have gotten a good deal. Tell them you have to think about it before accepting the deal.
You should not leave anything inside your car if you need to take it to a repair shop. The mechanic might need to move these things so they can do the job, and they won’t assume responsibility if anything comes up missing. Remove everything from your trunk too.
Do you like the idea of a good experience when your car is in need of being fixed? You never want to hear the news that repairs are necessary, but you can handle the situation well by following the tips included in this article. Use these tips to be in control of all of your vehicle repairs.