If you own an automobile, you are aware of how important proper maintenance of it is. Even if you did not purchase the car new, replacing it would require a considerable expense. Learn how to properly care for your car and extend its usable life by reading the following article.
If your car door and hatch locks tend to become stiff, avoid breaking your key off in the lock by lubricating them periodically with a penetrating oil spray. You can use the plastic extender that comes with the spray can to deliver oil to the interior of the locking mechanism. If you have misplaced this extender, just spray your key liberally and turn it in the stiff lock several times.
The Automotive Service Excellence logo is a sign that you have found a good mechanic. Mechanics have to successfully pass an exam and maintain an excellent record to receive this logo. Not all good mechanics get this certification but you should still try finding a mechanic who is ASE certified.
Make sure that you always keep a spare tire and jack in your vehicle. Most vehicles come with them, but you want to check anyway. You don’t want to end up stranded somewhere and get stuck paying a lot for a tow. It will be quicker and less costly when you do it yourself.
Assemble repair tools and keep them in your car, so you are prepared at all times. You should have basic tools such as equipment to change a tire, fix a flat, add oil and a gallon of water. If you don’t have a jack and lug wrench, get one. You may ask want to get a variety of screwdrivers, ratchets, socket wrenches and the like. Never buy cheap tools. Solid and sturdy tools are ideal so you don’t have to worry about them malfunctioning.
Find a reputable auto repair shop in your area and take your car there every time it needs service. You should attempt to have the same mechanic work on your car when you take it there. This helps the mechanic to become familiar with your vehicle so he will notice problems sooner than someone else.
If you have something major that needs to be done by someone at a shop, you have to be sure you get more than just a single price. The shop you’ve gone to may be trying to rip you off. Try to find shops that are experts in fixing your specific type of car. Shops like these understand your car through and through.
Don’t have a bunch of keychains on your keyring, or make sure you can remove your key when you need it. The weight of your keychain can cause problems for your ignition. If the key starts to stick, its time to replace the tumblers and say goodbye to your troll buddy!
Before you pay the bill for any larger auto repair work, give your car a test drive. You want to make sure that the repairs were done to your satisfaction. If you haven’t paid, it makes it much easier to talk about any lingering issues that may still be around that need further fixing.
Do not worry if you find a puddle of water under your car. Puddles are usually caused by condensation from your air conditioning system. You should worry if you have not been using your air conditioning system or if you find puddles of water under your car on a regular basis.
Now that you know the basics of proper vehicle care, you can perform some simple tasks yourself. You will also know when you need the help of a mechanic to repair your car and keep it in top running condition. Follow the tips in this article to make sure your vehicle remains dependable.
