If you own a car, you are already aware of how often a car can cause problems. Learning something about auto repair can save you a ton of money. Use these tips to better your car’s longevity. The next time you need to repair your vehicle, this advice will help you out.
Check your radiator frequently. Start your car, wait a few minutes and shut it off so you can safely inspect the radiator. Be careful not to open your radiator if the car’s running. Check the fluid in your radiator and always mix water with the coolant before adding it.
Remember that getting OEM parts is important. These are the manufacturer’s original parts. Generic parts may be cheaper, but the quality may not be the same as OEM parts. 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.
Tool Kit
Keep a DIY tool kit in your trunk. You should definitely have the tools necessary to change a tire, if you need to. If you don’t have a jack and lug wrench, get one. 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. Cheap tools are not worth your money. Get sturdy, quality tools that will not break on you.
Try looking for someone who fixes cars on their own property. For basic repairs they can charge far less and you both can be happy. You’ll be able to save quite a bit of money and will help them a little bit because you won’t be dealing with a big place.
Speak with friends and family about where they get their auto repairs done for some good ideas. The people you know can be the best help in finding a reputable mechanic. Word of mouth is important advertising. But make sure that you still do your research on anyone they mention. You should at least check out the mechanic’s reputation online.
Remove fluffy, fun key chains or have it so that your car key can be removed from the bunch. The ignition on your car is not devised to hold all the weight, even when you don’t consider it heavy. The last thing that you want is your key to stick, so try to reduce weight immediately.
Know when your oil needs changing. It is essential to have your oil changed so that your engine runs properly and and works at its peak performance. If your oil is not changed on a regular basis, your car may not last as long as it could.
Keep in mind that going to the dealer is not something you have to do if you want a vehicle fixed. There are great techs everywhere whether there’s a great shop 10 minutes from your house or whether you decide to go to the dealer further away. Find a mechanic who is certified and reliable.
Even minor problems should be checked by a mechanic. A small problem can become a big one if it is left unchecked.
When a problem is big, don’t self-diagnose it. Bear in mind that you are not trained as a mechanic. Even problems that seem simple to fix may actually be complicated, particularly in newer model cars. You can tell them your opinion, but leave the diagnosing of problems to the experts. Be knowledgeable about the details, but let the repair shop make the diagnosis.
No matter what a mechanic tells you, be aware that flushing your engine is an exceptional procedure. It is definitely not part of your car’s ordinary, routine maintenance. It is quite expensive and usually only necessary for engines in very bad shape. There is a good chance they are just trying to “pad” your bill, unless your engine is in real trouble.
Don’t fall prey to believing someone who tells you there is a lifetime guarantee for auto parts. A lot of the time they just say this so that they’re able to make more off of you. Some vehicles come with a “lifetime” fluid for your transmission. While this won’t have to be changed often, you will still have to change the fluid every 80,000 miles.
Few people take the time to go over the manual that comes with their vehicle. You need to look through this manual and know what you need to do if a problem comes about. The manual is full of key facts about your car and how to perform minor repair work.
Sometimes when you take your car in for repairs, you are told of other problems when you come to get it. They do this to make you think you’re getting a deal. Tell them that you will get back to them, then search around and see if you can get a better deal.
For simple things, such as adding oil and windshield wiper fluid to your vehicle, there is no reason that you cannot do these things on your own. It’s a myth that only professional mechanics can perform routine maintenance on a car. Learn about the process and then dive in!
When your mechanic identifies the problem, ask him to give you a few hours to think about the repairs before you have him fix it. Contact other shops or dealerships and compare what they would charge for repairs suggested by the first mechanic. If you can find a cheaper rate, pay the first mechanic for their time and take your vehicle to the cheaper shop.
It can be frustrating to have car issues. They also can be very expensive. But with the right knowledge, you can prevent many issues and even save some money when you do have to use a mechanic.
Discussion about this post