Auto Repair 101: The Basics Of Your Car
It's not easy to figure out how to fix your car. Don't get off track when you first start and begin by learning whatever you can from the article that you're about to read. You are going to learn so much that it will surprise you.
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Make sure you get quality parts to fix your car. You can usually get better prices if you get used parts from a junk yard but there is no way of knowing how long these parts will last. Do not hesitate to spend more on brand new parts that come with a guarantee.
If any parts of your car need to be replaced, make sure you ask for the (OEM) Original Equipment Manufacturer parts instead of generic parts. Keeping the exact specifications required by the manufacturer is essential in having optimum performance. Although generic parts are cheaper, spending a little more on OEM parts will make a big impact on your car's longevity.
Be sure to read your owner's manual to find out what kinds of fluids (oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, steering fluid) your car needs and to learn how to check and top these off yourself. Keep a few bottles of each fluid in the trunk of your car in case of emergencies.
When you are going to get your car repaired at a shop, ask the technician what type of parts they plan to use to get the job done. Many places use refurbished parts, but they would be willing to use new parts if you wanted to pay the extra money.
Do not assume you have been ripped-off by your mechanic because of the high price of your bill. Some parts are very expensive to replace, including engines, transmission systems or dashboard computers. You should ask your mechanic about the cost of the parts he had to put in your car.
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.
Always ask about the certification and the insurance of a mechanic before letting them fix your car. If something goes wrong, the mechanic's insurance will cover damages and usually provides you with a car you can drive until yours is fixed. A mechanic who is not certified does not have an insurance either.
If you're having serious repairs done on your vehicle, make sure to get multiple estimates. Most shops are reliable but some mechanics will find additional repairs to charge you more. Find a shop that specializes in your particular make of car. These types of shops will give you the best bang for your buck.
Don't forget about your windshield wipers. If your wipers don't do a good job, you need to replace them. Wiper blades ought to be replaced yearly. If your area is rainy or blades become worn, they may need to be replaced more frequently.
If you have a serious automobile issue, take it to a professional. Remember, you are not an expert! Modern cars include complex computer systems, and problems that were simple in the past are no longer so easy to fix. Let the mechanic diagnose the problem. You should inform them about what you know, but let them diagnose it.
Remember, you are owed an estimate before any work occurs on your car. If you did not receive an estimate and work did begin, do not feel obligated to move forward with any sort of payment. Move onto a more reputable auto shop as soon as possible if this occurs.
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.
There is nothing routine about flushing your engine. This is a costly service and not something that is typically done during the course of normal maintenance.
Always get a second opinion before you have an expensive repair done. No one is perfect, so there is a chance that the shop is wrong about what is needed done. Additionally, you may be able to find someone to do the work for a far cheaper price than what your original shop quoted you.
Use these tips the next time your car needs repairing. Don't let an ignorance of the subject make the experience a miserable one. Take control of your situation with the advice you've learned so that you can get the right deal.