Having to get your vehicle repaired can be very frustrating. It is hard to distinguish the dishonest mechanics from the good ones. Luckily, the article that follows can help you.

Make sure there is an emergency kit located in your vehicle at all times. This kit should have the tools to change your tires in the case of an accident. Do not forget blankets and a good flashlight with some batteries.

Wash your car often so you can prevent rust. All cars eventually get rusted, but the process can be delayed considerably by washing off any chemicals or salt immediately. Protect your paint with regular waxing.

Keep a record of any vehicle repairs. If you have problems with your vehicle later on, you will find it helpful to have some records for the next technician to look at. You might end up paying more if you don’t have them, because it will be more difficult to diagnose the issue.

Before you pay the mechanic, test drive the car to be sure that it is actually fixed. If you don’t, you may find that you paid for nothing.

You should always keep a jack and a spare tire with you at all times. A majority of cars come equipped with them. Having these items will allow you to change a tire and get back on the road quickly, which is helpful when you are stuck in a dangerous location. It is much easier and inexpensive to do it yourself.

A dealer isn’t your only option for auto repair. Great mechanics are everywhere, regardless of whether you visit a local mechanic or drive out of town to visit your dealer. If you feel comfortable with someone, use them.

Take pictures of your entire vehicle before taking it to the shop to get repaired. Sometimes shady mechanics supplement their income by stripping a car of its more expensive parts. This can give you proper documentation in the case of an accident.

You should know things about the inner workings of a vehicle before taking your car to the mechanic. There are three conditions: salvage, new, and rebuilt and re-manufactured. “New” means the part was made to the manufacturer’s specs, by the maker or by an independent retailer. Refurbished or reconditioned parts ate those that have been restored to working condition. Salvage means that they are used and they have not been altered.

Make sure that your technician has the proper certification. You might want to see if they have received approval from the NIAE. This is a sign that the mechanic is knowledgeable, and it should give you confidence in their ability to provide excellent service.

Transmission Fluid

Don’t allow people to sell auto parts to you that say they’re going to last forever. Often, this is how businesses try to reel you in. There are some cars that proclaim a “lifetime guarantee” for their transmission fluid: this is a perfect example. While the transmission fluid will last quite a while, it won’t last forever. It is best to change it at the 80,000 mile mark.

Consistency is key when it comes to vehicle repairs and maintenance. If you have a mechanic that you trust, then stick with them. If you go to several different shops, you are likely to get several different diagnosis. Prices will also vary, which can lead to a higher overall cost for car repairs.

Once a mechanic diagnoses your car, ask if you can take some time to consider whether or not you want to hire them. Contact other shops or dealerships and compare what they would charge for repairs suggested by the first mechanic. If another place can fix it cheaper, pay the first place their fee for the diagnostic and have your car fixed somewhere else.

It costs a lot to use the mechanics at the car’s dealer, but can often be the best choice. The dealer mechanics are specialists concerning your type of vehicle. This makes them better able to diagnose and fix problems quickly, getting your car back to you faster. There are many training programs that they have to pass to become certified.

Auto Repair

Have a plastic accordion file to put all auto repair receipts inside. Organize them chronologically or by kind of repair or maintenance so you can easily find a specific receipt. Either way, you will have a complete record of your car’s maintenance that will be helpful to your mechanic when more repairs are needed and helpful to you if you are dissatisfied with a repair. This is important to have when you get your auto repair done to save money.

Request a written estimate from mechanics that charge you over $200. Getting the estimate in writing can help you if ever you have to complain about the mechanic. They’ll be much less likely to tack on unnecessary repairs to a bill where they’ve already given you a written quote.

Pay attention to any sounds coming from your car. Noises can help diagnose a problem. If you can tell your mechanic what the car sounds like, you can help him diagnose the problem easier, and perhaps save you some money.

When your mechanic hems and haws over a written estimate, don’t use him. You’ll have no written word of work done.

Do you want your dealer to fix your car or a local mechanic? Dealerships can be quite costly, but they are staffed with technicians specialized in servicing your particular vehicle. Smaller shops might be cheaper, but they can be harder to assess.

Not having a running vehicle can be quite a nuisance! Whenever you have to service your car, be sure that you reference this article before the car needs to be repaired. Doing things right the first time will relieve your stress in the long run.