You can easily learn to fix your vehicle yourself. Sadly, most people use a mechanic and pay through the nose. Use this information to guide you in your car repairs. You can save a chunk of money, and also boost your confidence at the same time.
Mechanics should have ASE certification before you hire them. If a mechanic has this certification, then they have taken a test and have a minimum of 2 years experience. This tells you that the mechanic is qualified to work on your car.
If you hear a squealing sound when you step on your brakes, it is likely that you need new brake pads or rotors. Do not wait to have a mechanic check your brakes. There will be more damage to pay for and it is also dangerous to drive your car if your brakes are not functioning properly.
Friends and family are a good source when you are looking to get some work done on your car. Ask around to see if anyone can suggest someone to you before you go on your search. Never go with the opinion of one person. Ask a few and see what other answers you get.
If you are having work done on your car, make sure you get a written estimate beforehand. The estimate should include what is being repaired, the parts that will be needed and the anticipated cost for labor. It should also say that they will call for your approval before doing any additional work which exceeds the amount or time specified.
Contact your local Better Business Bureau if you need more information on a mechanic or a garage. If some complaints have been filed against them, your Better Business Bureau will tell you. Ask your friends and family about the different mechanics they have dealt with in the past to get some recommendations.
Keep a spare tire and jack in your trunk. A majority of cars come equipped with them. This way you won’t get stuck anywhere and need to pay someone to tow you. It is simpler and cheaper to handle it on your own.
When working on your engine be certain to wear proper safety equipment. You need ear plugs to protect your hearing, goggles to protect your vision and polyurethane or latex gloves to protect your skin from damage and injury caused by acids and other fluids. If you have long hair, be sure to secure it to avoid having it become caught in moving parts.
You do not need to purchase a new filter every time you go in to have an oil change. The auto repair person may show you a worn filter next to a new one and claim it is yours, but be firm and let them know that you do not need a new one right now.
Be sure to verify that the shop that you is properly licensed. If they are not, there is probably a reason for it, which could range from fraud to faulty repairs. Never use a shop that does not hold all of the licenses that they should in order to operate as a business.
If you can video record an issue you are having with your car, do so. That video can prove invaluable to your auto repair shop as they try to understand the issue. It’s a much better solution than you trying to describe the problem verbally. The repair team can watch the video over and over to learn what they can.
Fixing your car may seem overwhelming. That said, with the right education, you can do things on your own and know when you need expert help. Just remember to use the advice mentioned above and your car will be running like new in no time.
