Getting a car fixed can be costly. As if the cost of parts weren’t enough, labor costs can be astronomical. Wouldn’t it be better if you could handle your car repairs yourself? The hints below can help.

Mechanics should have ASE certification before you hire them. This shows that a mechanic has passed a special test for competence and also shows he or she has at least two years experience as a mechanic. This also means that you have an experience, knowledgeable repair person working on your car.

Never underestimate the value of keeping an emergency car kit handy. 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. Also, flashlights, batteries and blankets are all crucial items as well.

Ask a mechanic any questions you may have regarding your car when bringing it in to their shop. Ask about any problems you are having, and find out if there’s anything you can do to keep your care healthy. One of the best ways to save on car maintenance is to prevent problems in the first place. A little money spent for prevention can save thousands in the future.

Inspect your radiator once in a while. Run your car, turn it off then pop the hood. Never open the radiator cap if the engine is running. Use a dipstick to check the fluid level in your radiator and mix some coolant with water if you need to add more fluid.

Know what the repair is going to cost you before handing over your keys. If you don’t understand something, talk to the mechanic first. Don’t end up surprised by extra fees.

Keep on hand all of your car’s documentation. You may want to store them in the glove compartment for easy access. Any mechanic who works on your car is going to want to see them. This will allow them to figure out what the issues are quickly.

See if you can find reviews about the body shop of your choice on the Internet. These reviews can give you a good idea of the satisfaction that the customers had. You can then use that information to pick a shop that you can feel comfortable giving your money to.

Be sure headlights are clean if they’re not shining as bright as they once did. Debris from streets can get into your lights, decreasing the light they give. Use glass cleaner to wash any dirt away from them.

Before bringing your car to a mechanic, attempt to figure out by yourself what’s wrong. If you know what the problem is, you can save money and also easily identify any repair shop that is trying to scam you. As you have probably heard, there are mechanics out there that will be dishonest so they can charge you more money.

Have a DIY kit for auto repair in your car at all times. Your tool kit should have equipment to change a tire and other necessary items. If you lack a lug wrench and a jack, purchase both. In addition, include a few different screwdrivers and wrenches. Never skimp when buying tools. Invest in high-quality tools that you will own forever.

When you need a major repair done, get numerous estimates. Although shops usually can be trusted, you could end up having to pay extra money that you don’t have. Look around for reputable shops that specialize in your car’s make. These shops can better understand the needed repairs for your vehicle.

Never attempt to diagnose complicated car problems on your own. Keep in mind that you’re not a professional. Problems can be more complicated than they initially appear. Allow the diagnosis to be made by a professional, when possible. Supply them with all the necessary information, and let them handle the final diagnosis.

Warranties are extremely important when you take your car to get repaired, especially if you get expensive parts. Talk to your repairman about the warranty parts come with. See how long that warranty lasts and get a printed copy of that contract to review it.

Bleed brakes after you’ve worked on them and before test driving them. Then pump out the brake fluid. Look for any leaks. Once you have done these things, you can take your car on a test drive; however, make sure you drive in areas without much traffic. Start your drive out at a slow pace and once everything is certain to be in working order, kick the speed up a notch or two.

Have you heard of the term OEM? Well, OEM is a term used to describe car components that come from the original manufacturer. This is good to know whenever your car or truck requires new parts. You will sound like a knowledgeable person on auto repair by telling your mechanic to install OEM parts. This could very well prevent someone from outfitting your car with old parts.

If your car is brand new and having problems, get in touch with the manufacturer. Your car may be recalled, especially if other people have complaints. Usually, manufacturers will repair your car.

When you receive a list of the issues involved in your auto repair from your mechanic, ask for some time before deciding on having the work done. Use this time to call other dealerships and garages to ask for quotes since you can accurately describe the repairs you need. If there is a cheaper price elsewhere, then you need to go to that shop.

Cars need repairs, it’s just the way life goes. Repairs can be done in the repair shop by a mechanic, or right in your own driveway if you do the work yourself. Performing the repairs yourself can save you a lot of cash. These tips can give you the ability to do the repairs yourself.