Fixing your car can cost you a lot of money. It becomes so expensive because you are paying for both parts and labor. Don’t you want to actually put money back in your pocket by taking on the repairs yourself? You can now using the tips below.

Only choose an A.S.E. certified mechanic. This kind of certification tells you that whoever will be working on your car has a couple years of experience and has passed a test. This will ensure that you have the cream of the crop working on your vehicle.

A breakdown can happen at any time, so it is important to have an emergency kit somewhere in your car. This kit should include specific tools for charging your battery, changing your tire, etc. Do not forget blankets and a good flashlight with some batteries.

Always keep and eye on the radiator to make sure that it is full. Let the car idle for a short period first, but only long enough to let the fluid circulate. Never open the radiator on a running car. Use a dipstick to check the fluid level in your radiator and mix some coolant with water if you need to add more fluid.

Look for online body shop reviews for any business you’re thinking of patronizing. This can give you a good idea about how the public feels and what experience you might have yourself. This information is useful as you search for the right shop for your needs.

Take all valuable items out of your vehicle before taking it in for repairs. 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. Take all items out of your trunk, too.

Car Key

Remove fluffy, fun key chains or have it so that your car key can be removed from the bunch. The ignition cannot hold the weight of a big key chain. Once your car key begins sticking, you should immediately eliminate your heavy keychains.

Make sure that you clean your car in the winter as well. 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. After washing your car, dry it thoroughly to prevent ice formation.

Keep in mind that any DIY auto repairs can be dangerous. Always have a buddy to help you. It’s worth your money to spend more on a higher quality tool. This is very important for the tools that you use to change your tires. Make sure that the jack in your car can securely hold up the vehicle so you are safe while using it. Buy an adequate hydraulic floor jack that has approved jack stands.

You don’t want to diagnose complex auto issues on your own. Bear in mind that you are not trained as a mechanic. A minor issue can spiral into a huge dilemma. Leave the diagnosing to your auto repair shop. Just tell them the symptoms you are experiencing, including noises or the “feel” of the car, but then let them do their job.

Only use a mechanic who is certified. A NIAE seal of approval is something to look for in a mechanic. A person with this certification will more than likely give you good service.

Unfortunately, some repair shops aren’t honest. They will take off your tires, only to put others on that aren’t as good. They can make money this way. Marking your tires with chalk before taking the tires to be rotated is a good idea. Look for the chalk when you pick up your car.

Consistency is important when dealing with auto repair shops. Once you find a garage you like, stay with it. The same mechanic will know your car inside and out and will be best qualified to work on it. Many shops may charge more money and may not do a better job.

If you are worried about no one being there when you need auto repairs, sign up for AAA. This organization can help you when you need a repair or a tow. Many auto shops offer discounts to AAA members, so it’s well worth the membership.

While going to a dealer costs more, on average they are going to do a better job. This is because the mechanics are specially trained to work on your type of vehicle. It’s easy for them to diagnose and repair any problems your car may have. They also stay up to date with training.

After paying to replace old parts, make sure the mechanic gives you the old ones that were removed. If he doesn’t do this, it could be that he never replaced any part. This should be seen as a red flag and the person needs to be called out about it.

Be sure that you get a written estimate whenever your repairs will be over a couple hundred dollars. Having written documentation is useful should you need to complain down the road. It can also help avoid being overcharged if the mechanic has already given you with the written quote.

Ask Questions

Always ask questions when dealing with your mechanic. You need to get some details on the kind of repairs needed. How long is the repair going to take them? What exactly will he be doing to your car? Find out how much the new parts cost. You can ask questions that arise. This way, the mechanic will know that you are well-informed about the topic.

Cars need repairs, it’s just the way life goes. That is not to say that you must have a mechanic perform the work. The money you save could be used to pay for parts when you do your own repairs. The tips will assist you, so give it a try.