Welcome to Gaia! :: View User's Journal | Gaia Journals

It happens to all of us; our vehicle breaks down or is just not running properly. You know that it needs repairs. But, what does it take to get these repairs done the right way. Whether you will be doing the repairs yourself or you will bring it to a shop, you need to know certain things, which is the point of the following article.



Be very careful when touching the electronic parts on your car. You should not touch http://www.dallasnews.com/news/dallas-city-hall/2016/04/20/dallas-auto-mechanic-was-a-hero-for-property-rights-turns-out-hes-in-a-battle-with-a-former-business-partner unless the entire system is turned off. You should pay attention to the warning labels on the different parts of your car; touching some parts can be dangerous even when your car is turned off.



If you are having work done on your car, make sure you get a written estimate beforehand. The estimate should include what is being repaired, the parts that will be needed and the anticipated cost for labor. It should also say that they will call for your approval before doing any additional work which exceeds the amount or time specified.



Don't neglect your regular maintenance. These scheduled visits are not there just to get more money from you. They are designed to make sure maintenance is done on specific components before you end up stranded on the side of the road. While you might be able to skip one or two and be okay, the damage will shorten the life of your car.











Don't ignore small annoying sounds or problems. These tiny annoyances, such as noisy brakes, are usually cheap to fix. If ignored, however, they can usually lead to much more extensive problems and expensive repairs. Replacing worn brake pads now is much cheaper than having to replace the pads, rotors, brake lines, and calipers later.






<img src="http://rlv.zcache.ca/cool_retro_auto_detailing_auto_body_repair_business_card-rd14758a5274c4c56a4e3895cdd8f78a2_i579t_8byvr_1200.jpg?view_padding=%5B0.452380952380952%2C0%2C0.452380952380952%2C0%5D" />

Save some money by using your local auto parts store's diagnostic equiptment. Many are more than happy to let their customers use it because you may then purchase parts at their store. You benefit because you may have a small problem you can fix or you can just tell your mechanic what you want done.



If you need major repair work done, make sure to solicit multiple price quotes. Most shops are reliable but some mechanics will find additional repairs to charge you more. Try and locate a shop that specializes in servicing your particular type of car. These shops can better understand the needed repairs for your vehicle.



Think about snapping some photos of your entire car prior to bringing it in for repairs somewhere. While most shops would never strip your vehicle, some do this to increase their income. Keep track of serial numbers on parts, just in case.



Unless it is required by your car's warranty, don't feel obligated to use Read Even more at the dealership. There are many reputable independent auto repair shops and they are often cheaper. Ask your friends and family members for a recommendation if you are unsure which shops in your area are trustworthy.



You do not have to have repairs done at the auto dealer. There are independent mechanics all over the place. Consider using one if they appear to be good.



Some unscrupulous body shops may replace your tires with older ones. This is a money making tactic that allows them to make money off of people that are not wise enough to look into things. Mark your tires with some chalks before taking your car to an auto shop. If there is no chalk when your service is complete, you've been had.



Take photos of your car ahead of a visit to the garage. While many shops won't strip your car, some will in order to make more money. It is better to document what your vehicle looks like just in case this horrible thing happens to you.



Some examples of things you can do on your own is adding windshield wiper fluid or oil to your vehicle. Routine maintenance can be done by you. Find out how to perform a repair and get down to it.



If you want to know how to diagnose problems with your vehicle, then you should learn a few things about its critical components. It may even be a good idea to take a car repair class at the local community college. While this does require a bit of an investment, you should save money later on because you will have some idea of what is going on with your car. That way, you can find problems before they get too bad, and that will help with the life of your car.



Always ask in advance how much labor costs at that particular shop. In fact, do not give them your keys until you have a clear understanding of what you will be charged. Many times, this information is not posted in an obvious place, so it is important to know what you are getting yourself into.



Be certain that the mechanic who performs your auto repairs is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. ASE certification is offered two times a year to mechanics who have two years of experience working as auto mechanics. It is a written test that helps identify competent auto mechanics.



Keep an eye on the wet puddles under your car. Color and consistency may help you figure out the issue. If it's pastel blue, yellow-green or fluorescent-orange, it may be an antifreeze leak due to a bad hose, leaking radiator, or water pump, or an overheated engine. Dark brown or black oily puddles can mean a bad gasket or seal is causing the leak. Red oily puddles are usually caused by a power-steering or transmission fluid leak. Clear puddles usually aren't anything to worry about, as they may be condensation from the vehicle.



Never feel like you have to go to your dealer for any sort of auto repairs or maintenance. In fact, the dealer could be rather pricey compared an unaffiliated (yet still quality) local auto repair shop. Do your homework about where you are considering going, and then make the best call for yourself.



Feel more confident now that you have the proper information to help guide you through your next car repair. You don't want to get in a web of destruction which comes from making the wrong decisions. Instead, you want to be on top of your game with the information that you've been given.