If you’ve ever had car trouble, you know how much of a hassle it is. How can you find a trustworthy shop? This article will tell you all about getting your car repaired right.
You should always have an emergency kit available in your vehicle. This kit will include the necessary tools for successfully charging a battery, changing a tire and adding gas to your tank. Do not forget blankets and a good flashlight with some batteries.
You don’t have to get a mechanic in for simple repairs. There are a few things that you can fix easily yourself. If you are game, then check online to research the problem. When it’s a simple fix, do it yourself!
Spare Tire
Keep a spare tire and jack in your trunk. A lot of newer vehicles are already equipped with these things. Being stuck without a spare tire and jack means you will have to get your car towed. It is simpler and cheaper to do the work yourself.
Get multiple estimates if you’re in need of major service. Although most repair shops can be trusted, you do not want to have to spend some more unnecessary repairs. Shop around for shops with a good reputation and experience in your vehicle’s make. These types of shops will give you the best bang for your buck.
Think about locating a person that fixes vehicles and owns a garage. They may have learned through experience but still be competent, and are likely to have a lower labor rate. This can help you save money but make sure that they have a good reputation.
Take all the fluffy and fun key chains off, or remove the car key. The ignition isn’t designed to hold tons of weight. It doesn’t matter if it doesn’t appear heavy to you. If your key starts sticking, you need to get new tumblers and no longer use that little troll head keychain!
Pay attention to all of the lights that flash in the dashboard, and make sure that you understand what each of them mean. These warning lights are meant to help alert you to potential problems. Do not ignore them, as this can put your safety in danger.
You do not always have to have your dealer repair your car. Good mechanics can be found elsewhere, not only at the dealer’s shop. If someone makes you comfortable, use them.
A daring do-it-yourself approach isn’t always the best idea. Have a person close by to help if an emergency occurs. It’s worth your money to spend more on a higher quality tool. This is very true for things such as tire changing tools. The jack has to be strong enough to keep the car secure above you. That’s why it’s smart to use a good hydraulic floor jack with approved jack stands.
Before taking your car to a repair shop, take pictures of the areas that need to be fixed. Some shops strip vehicles and resell the newer parts. It is wise to have proof of your car’s condition, should something unfortunate occur.
You don’t want people selling you parts that are said to be guaranteed for life. This is often just for you to have to pay them more cash. Some cars, for example, do come equipped with transmission fluid proclaiming to last a lifetime. While this won’t have to be changed often, you will still have to change the fluid every 80,000 miles.
The manufacturer is the first point of call if your new vehicle is unsafe or not performing as it should. Manufacturers will issue recalls if there are enough complaints, or if the problem endangers the safety of drivers. Your manufacturer might even cover the repairs.
If you’re concerned about your mechanic, look at AAA. Become an AAA member if you want to save on repairs or on getting your vehicle towed. You can often find discounts on an annual AAA membership if you shop around.
Simple things, like adding windshield wiping fluid or oil, is something that you can do yourself. Routine maintenance can be done by you. You should learn how to do the work, then roll up your sleeves and get dirty.
Nobody enjoys going to get a vehicle fixed, but most people do have to deal with it from time to time. When you need to make repairs to your vehicle, use the information from the article. You’ll feel better when you are certain that the company you use is a good one.