If you own a car, you know how frustrating and common car problems can be. Once you learn a few things about the auto repair game, saving money and reducing stress become simpler. Apply the tips in this article to your life. It might come in handy one day.

Do not underestimate the importance of having an emergency kit in your car. You should put together a kit that includes the tools you need to change a tire, charge your battery and put more gas in your tank. Do not forget blankets and a good flashlight with some batteries.

Check your radiator frequently. You need to allow your car to run for a couple of minutes, shut down the engine and then open up the hood. Don’t open your radiator cap if your car is on. Use a dipstick to check the fluid level in your radiator and mix some coolant with water if you need to add more fluid.

Prior to paying for any repairs you’ve had done, you should go on a drive to figure out if it was really fixed. If you don’t do this, you may not have the appropriate problem repaired.

If you think your headlines are not as bright as usual, inspect them for cleanliness. The lights can become coated with road grease and dirt, which will prevent the maximum amount of light from shining. Clean theses with a good quality glass cleaning agent to get them as clean as possible.

Check to see that your technician knows what he is doing. If a mechanic is not giving you straight answers or cannot explain repairs in details, you should keep looking. Find a mechanic who seems trustworthy and knows how to answer all your questions.

Keep a spare tire and jack handy at all times. Many cars will come with these straight off of the dealership’s floor. You wouldn’t want to get a simple flat and have to shell out lots of money to a tow truck. You can save a lot by doing it yourself.

Always get a second opinion, a reputable mechanic will not be offended because he knows his diagnosis will be confirmed. Do not pay extra money for a service that can be performed at a fraction of the cost. Find a shop that specializes in your particular make of car. These shops can better understand the needed repairs for your vehicle.

Pay attention to the condition of your car’s wiper blades. You may need new blades if they are streaking or making noises. In general, new wipers should be put on your car about every twelve months.

Keep washing your vehicle, even in winter. Although you may feel like the car just gets dirty again right after cleaning it, the winter weather is harsh on your vehicle. Sand and salt on the roads can cause rust and corrosion. Dry the car right after washing, and make sure you do it thoroughly.

A daring do-it-yourself approach isn’t always the best idea. Should something happen, be sure someone else is around. Buy quality tools that are durable and reliable. When it comes to the tools you use to change a tire, this is vital. A good quality jack is very important, particularly since you will be under the vehicle. Hydraulic floor jacks with a stand should definitely be considered for purchase.

Take photos of your car ahead of a visit to the garage. Some shops strip vehicles and resell the newer parts. You are safer if you have documentation of the condition of your car prior to having any work done on it.

A good mechanic will likely have some credentials. Look for the seal of approval from automotive institutes. A person with this certification will more than likely give you good service.

Not that many people take time to read their car’s owner’s manual. But, reading it can give you a lot of helpful information. The manual has information related to keeping the vehicle maintained, as well as on how to make small repairs.

AAA is a good company to look into when you need auto repair. They will send out a tow truck if you break down and can help you find a reputable mechanic. Also, they often have discounts that can save you money.

Going to the dealership can be costly, however it is usually the best option. This is because the mechanics are specially trained to work on your type of vehicle. This makes them better able to diagnose and fix problems quickly, getting your car back to you faster. There are many training programs that they have to pass to become certified.

If some part on your car needs to be replaced, ask the mechanic if you can have the old one. If he cannot provide this, he may not have done anything with your car. Unfortunately, this may be a warning that the mechanic is not being truthful.

All auto repair receipts you have should be kept and filed. Sort your receipts by type or date. However you organize, those receipts can help a mechanic understand the history of your car and help you find your documentation if a repair has gone wrong. All in all, it will come in handy.

If a mechanic won’t give you a written estimate, don’t get work done. If he does not do the work correctly, you will have a hard time recovering any damages, because you will have no proof of the work that he was contracted to do.

Winter does a lot of damage to a car’s interior; use heavy-duty mats made of rubber to protect the carpet. This will protect the carpet from slush, mud, salt and other debris. You have to use them when it rains or snows.

Auto issues can be annoying and aggravating. It also can be expensive. But with the right knowledge, you can prevent many issues and even save some money when you do have to use a mechanic.