Do You Need Auto Repair? Don't Start Without Reading These Tips!
Save the receipts from all your car repairs in a single file. You can sort them chronologically or by service repair type. This ensures you have the information for your mechanic, insurance or a buyer, if necessary. This is particularly valuable when it is time to sell your car.
Tire wear is something you can avoid if your tires get rotated on a regular basis. You should have your tires rotated every 6000 miles, but this can vary depending on the make or model of the vehicle you drive. Purchase some new tires from a reliable brand and they will last you much longer.
Be sure that mechanic has certification. Have they been certified by the Automotive Excellent National Institute? It says the mechanic knows his stuff.
Keep a repair kit in the car at all times. These tools should include a tire changing kit, which comes in most cars. You should also have a lug wrench and a jack. You should also have good quality Phillips head and flat head screwdrivers, socket wrenches and a ratchet set, a torque wrench and an adjustable wrench. Avoid purchasing cheap tools. If you buy high quality tools, they will not break when you really need them.
Be sure that you get a written estimate whenever your repairs will be over a couple hundred dollars. With a written estimate, you will have proof should the work prove faulty. It can also help avoid being overcharged if the mechanic has already given you with the written quote.
Ask to have your old parts given back to you. This is a good way to ensure the repairs have indeed been performed. This isn't particularly necessary for exhaust system replacement. It's easy to tell if a new or good exhaust system has been installed.
Buy OEM parts. These parts are original and from the manufacturer. Generic parts may cost less, but you cannot really tell if they are the best quality. What saves you a bit of money in the short term, may end up costing you dearly in the long term.
You can plan ahead for rising temperatures by getting your car in shape for hot weather before summer starts. Take it to a mechanic and ask for a full service so you can monitor any issues. Hoses should be carefully examined for leaks.
Your car still needs to be washed during the winter, even though the weather makes it more difficult. Although you may think there is no point to it, your car is more likely to get damaged in the winter. Road salt and sand cause rust and abrasion. Prevent ice from forming on your car: dry it thoroughly after washing.
Even minor problems should be checked by a mechanic. A small problem can become a big one if it is left unchecked.
Look out for obvious "red flags" when dealing with a new auto repair company. If you have trouble getting a straight answer out of them, (or if, even worse, they refuse to answer questions to your satisfaction) they probably aren't the kind of people you want to work with. Having a mechanic you can trust is extremely important; don't waste your time with one who can't make you confident in his skills.
