Has your car broken down recently? If so, you are probably in need of some repair. Depending on your...

1. Automobile Repair And You: Advice
Has your car broken down recently? If so, you are probably in need of some repair. Depending on
your problem however, it may be in your best interest to tackle the problem yourself. The following
article will teach you everything you need to know about making your own auto repairs.
Check the fluids in your car regularly. Check the oil level with the dipstick you can find under your
hood. The dipstick should have a mark on it to indicate the ideal oil level. Add a quart of oil if you
need to and check the level again after letting your car run for a few minutes.
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.
In addition to basic tire changing equipment, keep a plastic tote filled with DIY auto repair supplies
in the trunk of your car in case of emergencies. Fill it with at least a quart each of motor oil,
transmission fluid, steering fluid, and brake fluid and a gallon of water. Add a can of penetrating oil
spray, a roll of duct tape, twine, bungee cords and basic tools so that you can manage minor repairs
on the road.
When you are in need of an auto repair, shop around to make sure that you get the best deal. Go to
at least three different repair shops to get a quote. If anyone charges something that is
unrealistically low or high, you should seek someone else to do the job.
If you feel pressured by the garage or dealership you visit to get your car maintained or repaired, do
not hesitate to leave. Reliable mechanics will not put any pressure on their customers and will focus
on providing quality service. Follow your gut feeling and stay away from the mechanics who do not
seem trustworthy.
Prior to allowing an auto repair shop to fix your car,
get a written estimate of how much everything will
cost. While the actual total may vary, this will give
you some idea of what to expect. Ask questions about
anything you don't understand. It is important to be
knowledgeable when it comes to what is happening
with your car.
Your car key should not have tons of fluffy keychains
on it. Ignitions are not meant to hold so much weight.
If your keys stick, take off some of the charms!
Pay attention to
http://MOBILE.tribe.net/template/pub%2Coc%2CDetail.vm?topicid=15706aba-2d76-4843-8961-854d
13e6d31a&plugin=blog&inst=42837028 your wiper blades. If your windshield wipers are not
cleaning your windshield probably or if they make a lot of noise, you need to replace them. Wiper
blades should at least be changed yearly, and sometimes you need to do this more often.

2. Do your research prior to choosing any auto repair company. Don't trust solely the company's
website. Look to auto forums and be wary of any complaints you may see. Also take into
consideration any rave reviews the auto shop receives. These are typically objective reviews, so you
can trust them more than what the shop's materials may say.
Listen to your gut. If you bring your car into the shop and the technician doesn't seem to be on the
up and up, consider going somewhere else. At the very least, the person probably doesn't care that
much about you and your car, and you deserve better service than that.
When looking for a reputable automotive repair facility, only consider certified repair shops.
Certifications, such as the seal for Automotive Service Excellence, are an indication that the shop
has demonstrated a basic level of competence in the field of automobile repair. While such
certifications are never an absolute guarantee of good service, the odds are much higher when the
establishment is certified.
Don't self diagnose complex auto repair issues. You aren't an expert! It could seem simple, but it
may be a complex issue. This is particularly true in new computerized vehicles. Let the professionals
do the diagnosing. Give your mechanic plenty of details on the issues you are encountering but do
not diagnose the issue yourself.
Probably the most important component of your vehicle is the brakes. Without them, you are not
going to be able to drive. If they are damaged, this can be extremely dangerous for you. Therefore,
whenever you experience brake problems, immediately see a mechanic to have them replaced. To do
this yourself, you must use rubber boots to remove the bolts and loosen the brake pads. Then, install
new brakes. However, if you are not comfortable doing this, it is best to see a mechanic. You do not
want to take chances when it comes to brakes.
Listen to your gut. If you bring your car into the shop and the technician doesn't seem to be on the
up and up, consider going somewhere else. At the very least, the person probably doesn't care that
much about you and your car, and you deserve better service than that.
Do not get any diagnostics done at a repair shop unless you can trust the people working there to be
honest. There are a lot of dishonest people out there that will damage your vehicle then claim that
you need to get it repaired soon or you will be in danger.
Properly preserve your vehicle if you know that you won't be driving it for some extended period of
time. This involves filling the gas tank to prevent unwanted condensation, waxing the body and
windows, and disengaging the parking brake. This keeps all the different components in the best
possible condition until you return to driving.
Clean your fabric upholstery thoroughly and then apply a coating of sealant, such as Scotchguard for
best results. In the future, you will be able to
http://fern4knox8.jigsy.com/entries/general/face-car-difficulty-use-these-tips wipe the surface clean
with less effort. This should be done early on, during the break-in period of your vehicle, shortly
after leaving the dealership.
If you use everything you have learned here, you are going to benefit next time you face making
decisions regarding auto repairs. Know one wants to pay too much or be sitting with a car that isn't
working. Instead, you want to know that your car is in good hands.