Excellent Information About Auto Repair In The Article Below

Your car is probably one of your most important possessions, since you depend on it to get you to and from work (among other places). You might not know too much about cars, but want to become better educated on their care and repair. If that is the case, continue reading to learn simple maintenance tips.

Check for A.S.E. certification before you choose a mechanic. This shows that a mechanic has passed a special test for competence and also shows he or she has at least two years experience as a mechanic. This means you will have an expert working on your car.

Before you pay for repairs, take the car out for a spin to make sure things are working as they should. Most people do not do this and end up with the same issues that previously existed.

Watch out for mechanics who perform unnecessary repairs on your car. A reliable mechanic will tell you if any parts are worn down and need replacing. But, they should ask for your approval before replacing them. Never give your repeat business to a auto technician who preforms unnecessary repairs.

Make sure that you specifically request OEM parts. OEM parts are parts that are made by the manufacturer. It's cheaper to get the generic parts, but the quality may not be the same. What is a cheap option now could be an expensive option later.

Be sure that you know whether or not you have a mechanic that can help you with your vehicle. While all cars have the same basic components, there are big differences as to how they are attached and located under the hood. If you are unsure, pay the extra to have a dealer do the repairs.

Keep a DIY tool kit in your trunk. You need to have tools to change a tire, which have come along with your car. If you don't have a jack and lug wrench, get one. You should also have good quality Phillips head and flat head screwdrivers, socket wrenches and a ratchet set, a torque wrench and an adjustable wrench. You should not have cheap tools. Instead, you should obtain solid tools that don't break whenever you really need them.

Try finding a reliable mechanic who works from their own garage. These types of mechanics are sometimes not licensed or insured, but charge much less and can do really great work. Next time your car is in need of repairs, ask around for referrals for an unlicensed but fabulous mechanic.

Know when your oil needs changing. Oil changes are important so your car can run smoothly. Be sure to remember this, because making sure you get an oil change on time can help extend your vehicle's life.

Keep washing your car throughout the winter. Winter can be the most damage causing time of the year for your car. Roads filled with sand and salt can really do some corrosive damage to your car. Just make sure you dry the car thoroughly before heading back out onto the roads to prevent icing.

You should always care for your car. Even learning simple maintenance can save you a lot of money from going to the mechanic. Keep this advice in mind when your car next gives you trouble.