Your Car Does Not Have To Cost You A Fortune To Repair
Have you ever desired to better handle your own vehicle situations? Have you considered making repairs on your own? Maybe you just want to learn the best way to select a mechanic. Read on to find out what choices you have.
Do not let mechanics do repairs that are not warranted on your car. A mechanic that is good will notify you of parts that show signs of deterioration and will soon need replacement, but they shouldn't replace it without having your approval. If an auto technician performs unnecessary repairs or repairs that were not agreed upon beforehand, don't return to them for further services.
Do not hover over the technician while they are trying to do work on your car. It is important that you spend time with them to explain what the problem is with your vehicle, but once you have done that, leave them alone so they can do their job without any interruptions.
Ask your mechanic if he's worked on a vehicle similar to yours. There are many similarities between vehicles but some issues are specific to certain makes and models. If you aren't sure, take your car to get serviced at the dealer.
You may want to get your car repaired by a person who does work out of their own garage. For basic repairs they can charge far less and you both can be happy. You can support small business and save hundreds on the cost of the repair.
There are no standard warranties on repairs. Make sure you are aware of what your warranty covers and that you have it in writing. Warranties may have limitations such as deductibles, mileage, time, businesses authorized to do the warranty work or special steps needed to get reimbursement. Know your warranty rights.
Even if you aren't particularly handy, there are a few DIY repairs that almost anyone can do. For example, changing the windshield wiper blades is really just a matter of snapping off one set and snapping on another. Look in your user's manual or use a measuring tape to determine what size you need. Don't be dismayed if the store where you purchase your windshield wiper blades only has one in the right size. You can use one that is an inch shorter on the passenger side of your windshield without causing any problems.
Have a repair shop in mind before you run into trouble. If you wait until an emergency, you may end up going with a shady mechanic who is convenient because you are desperate. Ask friends for a mechanic with a good reputation. Then when you run into repair problems, you can trust you won't be ripped off.
If you have a maintenance log, devote yourself to keeping it up-to-date. If it isn't, your car may undergo repairs that are not necessary and do nothing to help you. Further, this log is an indication to those working on your car that you expect the best for your vehicle.
Make sure that the technician working on your car is knowledgeable on the make and model. Cars very greatly from one brand to the other. The only way to get the best service is to work with a technician that is well versed on the inner works of your specific automobile.
Understand the billing process at the auto repair shop you go to. In many cases, you could get a bill for labor based on how long the manufacturer thinks it will take to repair your car. Be clear about how it works at whatever shop you take your car to.
Keep an eye on the wet puddles under your car. Color and consistency may help you figure out the issue. If it's pastel blue, yellow-green or fluorescent-orange, it may be an antifreeze leak due to a bad hose, leaking radiator, or water pump, or an overheated engine. Dark brown or black oily puddles can mean a bad gasket or seal is causing the leak. Red oily puddles are usually caused by a power-steering or transmission fluid leak. Clear puddles usually aren't anything to worry about, as they may be condensation from the vehicle.
Don't let a mechanic insist that an engine flush is part of a normal maintenance visit. This service is very expensive and it isn't necessary unless you have neglected engine care for some time.
Ask about the warranties associated with any new parts going into your car. Most new parts will include a warranty. If something goes wrong with that part after the repair, you'll be covered for the replacement. Know how long the warranty is good for and if there are any stipulations tied to it.
Educating yourself about car maintenance can give you the confidence you need to handle minor problems. Use the tips here to handle some simpler jobs yourself, and to better pick a good mechanic when you need their services. There are plenty of small repairs you can easily fix without spending money on a mechanic.