It can be costly, time-consuming and stressful to deal with auto repairs if you don’t know a lot about the subject. Besides learning about your specific car model, you should know a few other tricks as well. Read these tips to save time and money.
Be prepared for any emergency by equipping your car with a well stocked emergency kit. This kit will include the necessary tools for successfully charging a battery, changing a tire and adding gas to your tank. Consider having blankets, batteries and a flashlight for unexpected nighttime break downs.
If possible, test drive your car prior to paying for repairs. Many people don’t take this crucial step and wind up plagued by the same issue that brought them to the shop in the first place.
If you’re headlights don’t appear to be as bright as they once did, you may want to check their cleanliness. Headlights often accumulate grime and other debris during normal use. You will be able to see well when using a reliable glass cleaner.
See if you can predetermine your vehicle’s issue prior to attending at the mechanics. Knowing what your car needs can help you avoid being talked into repairs it doesn’t need. You probably already know that certain mechanics will come with lies to charge more money.
Make sure any mechanic you hire knows about your particular vehicle. Cars vary greatly by make and model so it is important that your mechanic is familiar with your make and model of car. If you’re not sure, it may be worth it to pay extra at the dealer.
You need a spare tire and jack with you all the time. Newer cars almost always have them. Having these items will allow you to change a tire and get back on the road quickly, which is helpful when you are stuck in a dangerous location. It is a whole lot easier and cheaper if you do it yourself.
Quality Tools
Always have a repair kit located in your car; you can put one together yourself. Your car came with equipment needed for changing a tire. A lug wrench and a jack are essential. You should also include a screwdriver set, a ratchet set, an adjustable wrench and a torque wrench. Don’t buy low-quality tools. Get sturdy, quality tools that will not break on you.
Look into an auto repair person that uses their own personal garage. These types of mechanics are sometimes not licensed or insured, but charge much less and can do really great work. You could save a lot of money this way.
Know when your oil needs changing. Look at your car’s manual to see when the manufacturer recommends oil changes. If you do not have your oil changed on a regular basis, you are risking serious damage to your engine. Try to remind yourself every 3,000 miles.
Make sure that you clean your car in the winter as well. Winter can be the most damage causing time of the year for your car. Exposure to the elements can cause rust and abrasion. Wash your car thoroughly and dry it to keep ice from forming on it.
Every time you get gas, you should also check the pressure of your tires. Check for foreign debris that may be embedded in your tires too. If you spot an issue, don’t put off getting it repaired. You don’t want to have to drive around with bad tires.
As you can now see, knowing auto repair basics will prove to be very beneficial. Besides teaching others and relying on yourself when you’re having car issues, you can save tons of cash. Utilize these tips the next time you need to do your own auto repairs.