Your vehicle is one of the most expensive purchases you can make, especially if you do not know much about it. On top of getting familiar with your specific model, you also need to learn other tricks. Read the following article to help you save both time and money.

Regularly check your radiator. Keep your car running then shut the engine for several minutes before opening the hood. Never open the radiator while the car is on. 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.

You might not need a mechanic to fix your car problem. You can fix some things easily. Try troubleshooting the issue on the Internet or talk to your friends to see if they have an idea of what could be wrong with your vehicle. If the job is a simple one, you might save a bit of money if you make repairs on your own.

Clean you car on a regular basis so it doesn’t become rusty. Every car is going to rust in the future, but this can be delayed if you just get all of the chemicals and salt off your car when you can. Wax your car to keep paint in good condition, too.

Get a referral if you want to see a reputable mechanic. Ask co-workers, friends and family for recommendations. You can find out great information about price and value that way. People will let you know what kind of things they had to deal with and if the person was honest.

Go over your owner’s manual and dog ear the most useful pages. Your mechanic will need the manual for certain information. You may also find answers to your problems, inside.

Ask for OEM parts. These are original components from the manufacturer. Generic parts may cost less, but they are not as good. A cheap, generic part is less of a bargain if it only lasts half as long as an OEM part would.

Attempt to self-diagnose ahead of going to a garage. Identifying the problem yourself can save you some money, and it can prevent you from being taken by a dishonest mechanic. You probably already know that certain mechanics will come with lies to charge more money.

If your car needs major repairs, get multiple quotes for the necessary repair. Most shops are honest, but some are not. Find a shop that has a reputation for deal with your make of car. These shops are better equipped to handle your car repairs.

Understand that visiting your dealer for auto repair work is not always necessary. There are several reputable technicians in auto shops and at dealerships. Find a mechanic who is certified and reliable.

Before you drop off your car at a repair shop, take pictures of what the car looks like beforehand. Though the majority of such shops are trustworthy, some shops strip vehicles for profit. It is wise to have proof of your car’s condition, should something unfortunate occur.

Before seeking out a mechanic, learn about car parts’ standard classifications. They’re classified as rebuilt, re-manufactured, and reconditioned, salvage, and new. Obviously, “New” components are those recently created. Used parts that have been made good as new are classified as reconditioned. They may also carry a tag as “rebuilt,” or even “re-manufactured.” “Salvage” means that it came off a car and hasn’t been fixed.

As you have likely surmised, there are many benefits to learning about auto repair. You can teach other people how to do repairs and rely on your own expertise. When performing do-it-yourself auto repairs, make use of these tips.