Tips For Cheap And Easy Auto Repairs

When you need your car fixed, you usually need it done as soon as you can. That's why it's important for you to not only know what needs to be done, but how you will get it repaired. Whether you will do the repairs or plan to take it to a mechanic, here are some smart auto repair tips.

Check the transmission fluid every two to three months. Let your engine run and open the hood of your car. Use the transmission dipstick to check the fluid levels. If there is not enough fluid in your transmission you probably have a leak somewhere in your system. It is best to take the car to a mechanic so he can locate the leak.

Be aware of all of the costs prior to handing your keys over to the mechanic. When you're not sure, ask until you feel clear. Being hit with additional fees is something that you don't want to be surprised with.

It is not always necessary to call a repairman when you have car trouble. Many things are able to be fixed easily. You can take your chances by going on the Internet to find some information to see if you can locate the problem. If the job is not too complicated, you will save money by attempting the repairs yourself.

When you are going to get your car repaired at a shop, ask the technician what type of parts they plan to use to get the job done. Many places use refurbished parts, but they would be willing to use new parts if you wanted to pay the extra money.

Get OEM components. These parts are issued by the manufacturer of your vehicle. While they often cost a little more, they typically work better for longer periods of time. Generic parts could end up costing you more in the long run.

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. You may already know that a few mechanics sometime engage in dishonesty if they think they can make a larger profit.

Do not neglect your wiper blades. If the wipers are streaking, you may need a replacement. You should replace wiper blades at least once a year or more often if you live in an area where rain is commonplace or if you notice your wiper blades are worn out.

Clean your car regularly, even in the winter. Although you may feel like the car just gets dirty again right after cleaning it, the winter weather is harsh on your vehicle. Roads filled with sand and salt can really do some corrosive damage to your car. Take care to dry your vehicle before driving it again. You wouldn't want ice to form.

You can fix small dents with a suction cup dent puller. This usually works for very small dents that can easily be covered with the suction cup. If the cup does not work, you will have to apply some filler into the dent, sand and paint until it becomes invisible.

Never leave valuables in your vehicle when you bring it to be repaired. It is true that most shops have very trust worthy employees, but not all do, and you do not want to be a victim of theft. Instead, protect yourself by cleaning your vehicle and removing anything that is not attached to the car.

Pay attention to any fluids that pool under you car when parked. Small spots may not mean very much, but take note of what the fluid is. Plain water is usually just condensation that builds up on a car naturally. But bright green or orange fluid is the cooling system. Oily fluids are those like engine oil, or transmission fluid. These are warning signs.

Avoid being run over by your own car! When you jack your car up, be sure to set your emergency brake. Place bricks behind the tires you are not working on to keep your car from rolling. Keep a set of wedges or three or four bricks in the trunk of your car in case you have to change a flat tire on a hill.

Be sure to keep the area where you are working on your car free of hazards. Keep your tools and spare parts picked up so that you and others will not trip over them. Be sure to work in an area with good ventilation so that you won't be overcome by potentially toxic fumes. Have a bag of cat litter on hand to clean up spills quickly to avoid slipping.

Be sure to get a written estimate from your auto mechanic before he does nay work on your car. Even if he tells you a price verbally, you should try getting it down on paper. Many states do not allow anyone to charge too much more than the estimate given at the beginning.

The weather conditions in your area can have an impact on your vehicle. If you live in a very dusty area or if it is often below freezing during the winter, you will probably have to get your vehicle serviced more often. It is best to invest in a robust vehicle in the first place.

Don't necessarily take your car to the most convenient place for repairs. This typically leads you to bring the vehicle somewhere that you wouldn't ordinarily go to, and you probably won't get the service that you deserve. If you aren't sure about a shop, go in and have them do something small first. If you are satisfied, consider using them again.

With these tips, you should feel more comfortable about fixing your car. You should know have some ideas that can help you to get your automobile repaired quickly, so that you can go on with your life. Don't wait until you have a problem with your car; keep this information on hand so you have somewhere to start.