Did you know there are many car repairs that you can perform yourself? These days, people tend to go to mechanics for simple minor repairs. The article that follows can help you to fix your vehicle’s problems. Not only will you save some money, but you will also feel great about yourself.

Be prepared for any emergency by equipping your car with a well stocked emergency kit. You need to have tools in your kit that will allow you to change the battery, help you get some extra gas and tire changing tools as well. Blankets may be added, some batteries and a flashlight for if you have a trouble with your car at night.

Ask the tech if they’ve done work on your model and make of car before. If they say that they have, this should be a good indicator that they have some idea of what needs to be done to get your car back into shape.

In order to prevent rust to your car, wash it on a regular basis. Salt and other harmful chemicals will speed up the rusting process. If you want to avoid rust at all costs, do your best to clean the car thoroughly after contact with these substances. Protect your paint with good wax.

Record each repair that you have done on your car. Future problems can be easily solved when auto technicians have access to past records. Not having any repair history on the vehicle can lead to more problems for the mechanic.

Try to get OEM parts for your car. These are original manufacturer parts. It may be cheaper to take generic parts, but there’s no knowing the true quality of those parts over the many years to come. Although you save money in the short term with generic parts, its not really a deal if they have to be replaced again in a few years.

Look for signs that should serve as a warning that your repair man is no good. If they are talking in circles and avoiding your questions, you should take your business elsewhere. Having a mechanic you can trust is extremely important; don’t waste your time with one who can’t make you confident in his skills.

You may not be a mechanic, but your trunk should always have a spare tire and a jack at the very least. Modern cars come equipped with them already. You will have to spend a lot to get your car towed if you cannot change the tire right away. You can save a lot by doing it yourself.

Car Needs

If the repairs your car needs are major, get several quotes before hiring a mechanic. Do not pay extra money for a service that can be performed at a fraction of the cost. Find shops that specialize in the job that your car needs. They may have an easier time understanding what needs to be done to your car.

When your headlights or taillights burn out, you can save a lot of money on repairs if you do it yourself. Doing so is easier in some cars than others, but it is still cheaper than paying a mechanic to make the replacement. Ask whether someone you know can show you how to fix it.

Don’t forget about your windshield wipers. If your windshield wipers are no longer keeping the rain off your windshield, or if they make noise or leave streaks, it is time to replace them. Wiper blades should be replaced when they wear out, or at least once per year. This can be more often if your location receives a lot of rain.

Some shops steal your tires and use old tires to replace them! They can make money this way. Prior to entering, mark your tires with chalk. If the marks are gone when you get your vehicle back, you have probably been swindled.

Fixing your vehicle yourself can be challenging at first. But the basics of car repair are not that hard, and beyond that you just need a good idea of how to find a good mechanic. Just do not forget the tips here and your car problems will be fixed.