Besides becoming familiar with your car’s model, you should know a few other tricks as well. Read these tips to save yourself time and money.
Check your coolant levels frequently. Allow your car to run for just a few minutes, then shut off the engine, and open up the hood. You should never open the radiator of a car that is running. Use a dipstick to check the fluid levels, and always add the correct amount of water to your coolant before adding it to your tank.
Don’t take an emergency kit for granted. You need to have tools in your kit that will allow you to change the battery, battery charger and a gas can.
You should wash your car to keep the rust away. All cars will eventually rust out, but the process can be delayed considerably by washing off any chemicals or salt immediately. Use a decent wax for protecting paint job as much as possible.
You don’t want rust to attack your car so take the time to wash it on a regular basis. Rust will happen, but you can slow things down by keeping the car clean. Using a wax will protect the paint job significantly.
Always think of how to fix your car before trying to get it repaired. You probably already know that certain mechanics sometime engage in dishonesty if they think they can make a larger profit.
Never neglect your wiper blades. You need new windshield wipers if they are making noises or leaving streaks on the glass.
Look out for any mechanics that add unnecessary repairs. 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. Avoid mechanics that have previously done work without your go ahead.
Do not let a mechanic work on your car before knowing about their prices and the rates for labor. Some repair shops display their rates, but you should not hesitate to ask about rates if you do not see any information. You must know how you’re being billed. Some stops estimate repair times established by the manufacturers they work with. Some repairs can take all day job.
Be sure to change your oil change schedule. You have to change it regularly get the oil changed to make sure your car running smoothly. If you don’t change it, your car may not last as long as it could.
Think about finding a mechanic who does repairs in his or her own garage. As long as they have experience they can do the same work but they often charge far less for the labor. This savings in labor costs can add up to hundreds. It also supports a small independent business.
Keep in mind that any DIY repairs can be dangerous. Always have somebody nearby to help you if an emergency. Purchase quality tools you do not have to worry about breaking. This is particularly important for the tools that you need to change your tires. The jack has to be strong enough to keep the car. That’s why sometimes it’s best to get a good hydraulic floor jack with jack stands.
Even if the problem you are having seems minor to you, it pays to get it looked at just the same. A small problem can become a major one if don’t pay attention to it.
Know about car parts prior to visiting a mechanic. There are three conditions: salvage, new, and rebuilt and re-manufactured. New parts are made solely to a manufacturer’s specifications. Buying a rebuilt or reconditioned part means the part has been damaged and fixed in the past. Salvaged parts are those that have some wear and tear to them.
Check to see that your mechanic has all of the needed certifications. You might want to see if they have been approved by the ASE. This means that the technician has been properly trained and reliable.
Some unscrupulous body shops may replace your tired with even older ones. They make money from you being ignorant. Mark your tires before taking your car to an auto shop. If the chalk isn’t present when you get the car, talk to the mechanic.
Make sure that you do not get pressured into extra repairs by body shops. They will profit off of your ignorance if they can. Put chalk marks on the tires prior to bringing the car in. You have been duped if there is no chalk on the tires when you pick it up.
Learning about repairing your car just makes sense. You can teach others repair techniques and perform repairs on your own car to save money. Remember the tips in this article so you can do auto repair yourself and find the best mechanic for larger problems.