If you own a vehicle, you realize how frustrating car trouble can be. When you understand simple repairs, you can save lots of money and reduce a lot of stress. Use these awesome tips to better your car’s longevity. It will be handy the next time your car breaks down.
Make sure that you often check the radiator. You need to allow your car to run for a couple of minutes, shut the engine and open your hood. You never open up the radiator if your car is still running. Check the radiator fluid by using a dipstick and remember to always mix the coolant with water prior to adding it.
Ask your mechanic if they have experience with working on your car. If so, there is a better chance they can help resolve any issues you have.
You should wash your car to keep the rust away. All cars will rust up eventually, but the process can be delayed considerably by washing off any chemicals or salt immediately. A good wax can help you keep your best friend: a friend that will protect that shiny new paint job protected well.
Always keep a record of any maintenance done to your car is repaired. If the car has other issues later, your mechanic will appreciate having access to your past records.
Never leave any valuables in your car when dropping it off for repairs. Mechanics might have to empty the inside of your vehicle and they aren’t responsible if you discover something missing. You want to remove all the items from your trunk.
Always think of how to fix your car before trying to get it repaired. You probably already know that a few mechanics will come with lies to charge more money.
Make sure the mechanic you hire knows about your particular car.If you aren’t sure, spend the extra money and go to an authorized dealer.
Tool Kit
Assemble a DIY auto repair tool kit and put it inside of your trunk. Your tool kit should have equipment needed for changing a tire and other necessary items. You will need to get a lug wrench and a jack if you do not have them. You should probably get a Phillips and flat head screwdriver and several types of wrenches.
The ignition cannot hold the weight of your keychain can cause problems for your ignition.If your key begins to stick, the tumblers need replacing.
Take pictures of your entire vehicle prior to bringing it into any shop. Some unethical shops strip parts off your vehicle and resell them. You need to be able to document the vehicle looks like in case you experience this terrible thing.
Don’t try to diagnose and fix complex auto repair issues. What may seem like a simple problem to fix can be quite complex, especially if you own one of the newer vehicles equipped with a computer. Let repair shop diagnose the problem. Let them know about any sounds you heard or what problems you have been having, but allow them to diagnose the final issue.
Some unscrupulous body shops replace your tires with even older ones. They do this to make money off of your ignorance if they can. Mark your tires before taking your car off. If you find the chalk is missing later on, talk to the mechanic.
It is not uncommon to find out about other problems when they pick up their vehicle from an auto shop. They do this to make you think you’re getting a good deal from them. Tell them that you’re going to have to talk to them later so that you want to take a few hours to make a decision and then call around for quotes from other shops.
Car issues can ruin your day. They can also be very costly. But with the right knowledge, you can prevent many issues and even save some money when you do have to use a mechanic.