Cars, Trucks And SUVs - Repair Tips To Help

When it comes to fixing cars, you may feel like you are totally clueless. If so, you don't need to worry any longer. 

Keep reading to learn how you can take control of dealing with auto repairs this next time around. Make sure that you do not neglect the radiator in your car. Let the car run a couple minutes, shut your engine and open up your hood. 

Do not lift the radiator lid when the engine is running or if it is too hot. Use your dipstick to check fluid levels and mix water with coolant ahead of pouring it in. 

Keeping your car washed will help prevent rust. All cars eventually get rusted, but the process can be delayed considerably by washing off any chemicals or salt immediately. 

Protect your paint with regular waxing. If you have to take your vehicle to a repair shop, arm yourself with information and ask questions. You should ask things specific to the problem that has arisen and how you can take preventive action going forward. If you prevent issues from happening, you can save money on repairs. Test your car out after a repair has been done by a mechanic. 

Make sure it is operating correctly before full payment is made. Skipping this step is a common error that causes folks to end up with the same issue they have paid to have fixed. Be aware of a mechanic who makes unneeded repairs to your car. 

They should contact you before doing any extra work. If you notice a mechanic has made unnecessary repairs to your vehicle, do not go to the same one next time. Ask for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. These parts are issued by the manufacturer of your vehicle. 

Generic are cheaper, but also less reliable. They may initially be a deal, but the generic parts may make you pay more in the long run. Ensure you regularly inspect your radiator. Start your car, wait a few minutes and shut it off so you can safely inspect the radiator. 

Then check the coolant level, but while the car is not running. You do not want the coolant to get hot; it is dangerous. Use a dipstick to check the amount of fluid in the radiator. You should also make sure to mix coolant fluid with water before you pour it into your radiator. 

Watch out for mechanics that don't know what they're doing. If they give you the runaround or ignore any questions, you may not want them. Having a mechanic you can trust is extremely important; don't waste your time with one who can't make you confident in his skills. 

Assemble an auto repair kit and put it inside of your trunk. Basic tools that should be included are tire changing tools. A car jack and a lug wrench are essential tools to have. You may ask want to get a variety of screwdrivers, ratchets, socket wrenches and the like. Don't waste your money by purchasing cheap tools. Get good, sturdy tools that won't break when you need them the most.

Windshield Wipers

Referrals are a great method for finding a great auto mechanic. Talk to your friends and family and ask if they have any recommendations. You can find out about the quality of service and the costs. Their experiences can be a huge help. 

Don't forget about your windshield wipers. If your windshield wipers cause streaks or make noises, they may need replacing. Get new wipers blades yearly or on a more regular basis if there is often rain or snow where you live. Remove unnecessary key chains. 

Your car's ignition is simply not designed to hold all that weight, even if it may not seem that heavy to you. If your key starts sticking, you need to change the tumblers and eliminate the troll buddy that's weighing down your keychain! Remember that you don't have to go to your dealer to get auto repair work done. Good mechanics are all around you. 

You need to use a mechanic that you feel completely comfortable with. Take the time to read your car manual and know the basics of how your car works. During auto repair visits, your mechanic will probably need to gather some information from you, about your vehicle. 

Sometimes you may find things that you can easily fix yourself and do not require a trip to the dealership. If you're not able to get your vehicle fixed because you're tight on funds, see if you can get in contact with someone at a vocational school. Students can do car repairs under the guidance of their licensed mechanic/instructor, and you can save a lot money having your car fixed there. 

Don't let anyone tell you that getting an engine flushed is something that normally needs to be done during maintenance. This service is expensive and it may not be necessary.

Transmission Fluid

Try to get OEM parts for your car. These parts are the genuine article, produced by your car's original manufacturer. It can cost a lot less to use parts that are generic, but you won't get the most out of these things after a while. 

What is a cheap option now could be an expensive option later. Do not believe claims that any auto part will last for a lifetime. This may simply be a money making racket. A common example is a car that has "lifetime" transmission fluid. Transmission fluid needs to be changed every 80K miles or so. 

You can handle your car the next time there is a problem. When your car breaks down, use these tips to get it back into running condition. Read on and learn everything you need to know about auto repair.