Nobody is born knowing how to repair a vehicle. This is why you must know some very basic facts. How important your car is can be enough to make you nervous when you think about repairs. However, the following tips will keep you on track.
Be sure and regularly check your radiator. Run your car, turn it off then pop the hood. Never open the radiator while the car is on. With a dipstick, check your radiator fluid. Before adding more coolant remember to mix it with water.
Always know how much your repairs will cost before handing your car over to a service department. If you need clarification, ask the service advisor for additional information before repairs commence. You want to avoid being surprised with additional charges once the car is fixed.
Go through your automobile’s manual and make sure to mark important pages. Any auto professional with a good reputation will need to know all he can about your car. You might even find some easy solutions for the issues you have been encountering.
Make sure you replace old parts with OEM parts. This means that you are getting manufacturer made parts and not replicas. Generic parts may be cheaper, but the quality may not be the same as OEM parts. Although you save money in the short term with generic parts, its not really a deal if they have to be replaced again in a few years.
Pay attention to your wiper blades. If you see that the wipers aren’t cleaning effectively, a new pair is in your future. They should be replaced yearly or more frequently if you drive in a rainy locale.
Sometimes you can find a good mechanic who works in their home garage. Provided the experience and skills are there, this may be a much less expensive option to chose from. You can support small business and save hundreds on the cost of the repair.
Keep an eye on all of the warning lights on your dashboard and know what they mean. These lights can let you know when something is wrong with your car. If you ignore them, the problem can get worse.
Be sure that you make a note of your oil change schedule. It is essential to have your oil changed so that your engine runs properly and and works at its peak performance. Neglecting this part of your car can reduce the lifespan of your car.
Mechanics should always be properly certified. Research to learn if they have been approved by the NIAE. This means that the mechanic is knowledgeable and reliable.
Test Drive
Bleed your brakes before you take your car on a test drive. Pump your brake fluid afterwards. Look for leaks and make sure the fluid will not run out. Having done all this, you are ready to start your test drive on a road with minimal traffic. Don’t drive too fast at first to make sure everything is working properly.
Look for the AAA logo if you need a reliable mechanic. AAA members have an inside track on where to get auto repairs and can often have their car towed for free. Also, they often have discounts that can save you money.
Sometimes the best choice is to use mechanics at a car dealer. Dealer technicians are specialized in your car’s model. In addition, they will better know what can go wrong and thus fix it quicker. These mechanics regularly receive additional training.
How would you like a less stressful experience the next time you need your car repaired. While there are certainly more enjoyable things to take care of, this information is practical and relevant. Use the advice you’ve learned so that you have command of your auto repair needs.