Expert Auto Repair Advice From People Who Know!

You depend on your car to be able to go to work, run errands and do many other things. Perhaps you're not educated on cars, but would like to learn more. If this applies to you, this article will teach you auto repair basics.

Be sure your mechanic has an A.S.E. certification prior to letting them fix your car. An ASE certification means your mechanic has a minimum of two years' experience in auto repairs. This certification also requires that he or she passes a written test. When a mechanic has this certification, you are ensured that a qualified individual is repairing your car.

Always carry a good emergency kit in the trunk of your car. You need to have tools in your kit that will allow you to change the battery, help you get some extra gas and tire changing tools as well. A few blankets, flashlights and spare batteries are also great to have.

See if the prospective mechanic has experience with your type of car. If they have before, then they are likely going to be able to also fix your car easily enough.

Be careful of mechanics who will do unnecessary work on your vehicle. Make sure that you give your approval first before a repair is done. Never return to a mechanic that ripped you off.

Always think of how to fix your car's problems yourself before trying to get it repaired. Knowing what your car needs can help you avoid being talked into repairs it doesn't need. Some mechanics are dishonest and will say the problem is more serious than it actually is.

Be sure that the mechanic is experienced working on your model of vehicle. While basic components may be the same, there are differences between cars due to the amount of space beneath the hood. If you're not sure, go to the dealership for repair.

Put together an auto repair kit and keep it in your car. The basic tools you will need include the tire changing equipment which should have come with your car. If you don't have a jack and lug wrench, get one. Also, it is wise to have screwdrivers, a ratchet set, Phillips head screwdrivers and wrenches. Don't buy poor-quality tools. You want tools that are reliable and up to the task at hand.

Learn to change your taillights and headlights. While it's easier in some vehicles than others, it's a whole lot cheaper to do it yourself. Ask someone you trust if he can teach you how to fix these problems.

Before you decide on an auto shop, ask your friends to talk about their car repair experiences. You may get a few recommendations from your friends and family that make your search easier. You'll still need to do some investigating. Read online reviews, and check with the Better Business Bureau as well.

Take off all of your keychain charms; just use your key. Ignitions are not meant to hold so much weight. If your keys starts sticking, you need the tumblers replaced.

Don't let a mechanic tell you that flushing your engine is routine maintenance. Flushing an engine can be expensive and is only needed in cases where the engine is in bad shape.

Sometimes when you take your car in for repairs, you are told of other problems when you come to get it. Some shops use this tactic to try and get you to spend more money. Let them know that you'll think about it, and then look around for an even better deal.

You should always care for your car. Just knowing the basics is a big deal and can help keep the cost of repairs down. Implement what you have just read the next time you need your car repaired.