How To Avoid Common Auto Repair Mistakes
Are you a car owner? Certainly you have seen times in which repairs are needed. Locating a good mechanic can drive one batty. This article is filled with tips you can use to keep your vehicle in good shape and find a reliable mechanic.
Make sure the oil in your vehicle is changed about every 3,000 miles. Waiting longer for an oil change can result in dirt and debris fouling your oil and that can damage your engine. If you use synthetic oil in your vehicle, you only need to change the filter every other oil change.
Ensure you regularly inspect your radiator. Let the car idle for a short period first, but only long enough to let the fluid circulate. Don't open your radiator if your car is running. Look to see what the fluid level is (use a dipstick), and remember that coolant needs to have a bit of water added prior to entering your radiator.
Protect your car from water damage. Take the time to make sure all windows and doors are properly closed. Keep your car on higher ground if you live in an area that's easily flooded. If you have sandbags, build a wall around your car. Don't drive in areas with high water levels. Don't start your car if it's been exposed to flood waters.
Keep a spare tire and jack handy at all times. The majority of new cars have them automatically. You never want to be without them, as you could end up having to pay for an expensive tow. It's far more convenient and less costly to take care of it yourself.
Monitor your dashboard lights regularly. They were put there for your assistance, so use them for that. When you ignore them, you'll pay for it.
Ask for a guarantee when you get your car repaired. Make sure you get it in writing and that you understand what it covers. You may also want to pay a little more at a dealership to have big jobs done, such as a transmission overhaul. This guarantees your work will be covered regardless of where you are.
Always research the reputation of any auto repair shop you are considering using to have your car serviced. If you are a AAA member, you can find a list of approved shops on their website. You can also download an app for your smartphone like Repairpal to view ratings for different repair shops.
Make sure that the auto repair shop you go to offers a warranty on their services. There are plenty of repair shops that will do a shoddy job, and there is nothing you can do about that if you have no warranty. A warranty will give you the opportunity to get the problem fixed for no charge.
Before you pay the bill for any larger auto repair work, give your car a test drive. You want to make sure that the repairs were done to your satisfaction. If you haven't paid, it makes it much easier to talk about any lingering issues that may still be around that need further fixing.
Invest in a detailed repair manual for your vehicle. Even if you are not comfortable enough to fix your car yourself, you will at least get a better idea of how your car runs and perhaps diagnose a few problems yourself. Being knowledgeable will help you recognize an honest mechanic too.
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.
Top mechanics advise that you look for a mechanic who displays an honest demeanor. They say that, in addition to good BBB ratings and proper licensing and certification, a good mechanic is simply "up-front". Mechanics who avoid eye contact, don't give straight answers and disregard your concerns should be avoided.
Discuss what type of guarantee an auto repair shop offers. Make sure you have a piece of paper that states this guarantee, and be clear about what it excludes. You may need to go somewhere more expensive in order to get the warranty that you want, particularly if you are going to be spending a large some of money either way.
If you go to a auto body shop and they do good work, go there every time that you need work done. One of the ways to save money on car repairs is to establish a relationship with a good mechanic. Because you are a repeat customer, you might get some kind of discount.
There are many bad shops out there, so it can seem very difficult finding a good one. Be sure to use the tips mentioned when you are in need of a good mechanic. The right initial effort can prevent much stress later on.