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The subject of auto repair is something that has proved elusive to many people who would prefer to cross their fingers and hope their car keeps running smoothly. The key to automotive confidence lies within the acquisition of a good body of knowledge when it comes to car repairs and maintenance. The article that follows below serves as a good starting http://www.usnews.com/news/business/articles/2016-06-01/us-auto-sales-expected-to-fall-in-may-as-growth-slows for learning about this important topic.



Make sure you get quality parts to fix your car. You can usually get better prices if you get used parts from a junk yard but there is no way of knowing how long these parts will last. Do not hesitate to spend more on brand new parts that come with a guarantee.



If you have issues with your car, you can fix it yourself. Many things are able to be fixed easily. If you want to take a chance, you can go online and do some research to pinpoint what the problem is. When it's a simple fix, do it yourself!



Ask your friends and family for advice on a trust worthy auto body shop. It can be very hard to find a shop that will not rip you off or produce poor quality work. Asking for advice can save you from a lot of wasted money and time trying to do more info on your own.



Before taking your vehicle to an auto repair shop, check out their online reviews. This will also allow you to know what the public thinks of how they handle customers and how good they are at solving any problem you may encounter. Use this information to choose a shop that you're comfortable with giving money to.



When bringing your car to a mechanic, tell them you want OEM parts. These are original components from the manufacturer. Generic parts may cost less, but they are not as good. What could be a good deal in the present won't always be the best thing to for you later, so try using OEM parts when you're able to.



Pay attention to the signs a potential mechanic gives to you. If he cannot give exhaust system repair MTT , rushes his words, or avoids answering any questions you have for him, he may be trying to hide something. Perhaps he does not really know what he is doing or is lying about something else. If this is the case, go with another mechanic.



Keep accurate records on what work has been done on your car and when. Many repair shops will keep this information for you, but that only works if you see them for everything for major breakdowns to oil changes. This can help in diagnosing problems, as you can show what fixes have already been attempted.



Before you take your car in to the shop, learn about the standard classifications for auto parts. Parts are classified as new, re-manufactured, rebuilt, and reconditioned, and salvage. New parts are newly created to the specifications of the manufacturer. &Refurbished&, &rebuilt&, etc. mean that the part is like new, and potentially even better than new, as it has been renovated and tested repeatedly. Salvage parts are used.



You do not need to purchase a new filter every time you go in to have an oil change. The auto repair person may show you a worn filter next to a new one and claim it is yours, but be firm and let them know that you do not need a new one right now.



Pick up a book on simple auto repairs. You may find that some smaller repairs you can do at home, especially if you are mechanically inclined. Though, don't go crazy! If it's an advanced issue, get your car to a legitimate repair shop as soon as you can. Don't make the problem worse with a shoddy repair job.




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Whenever you are working on your car's electrical system, you should make certain the battery is disconnected. Failing to do so could cause you to receive an electrical shock. If you aren't certain whether or not the area you intend to work on has electrical components, play it save and disconnect your battery.



There are some shady mechanics out there, and they will resort to extreme lows to get your money. If a mechanic tells you that your axle boot is torn, ask to see it. A legitimate tear will be jagged and greasy. If it is a straight cut, let them know that you know they did the damage and you will contact a lawyer if they don't fix it for free.



If a part on your car has to be replaced, get an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part. If you want your car to run at the highest possible level, it is important not to just put any old generic part in your vehicle. While OEM parts cost more, they are worth it in the end.



When you purchase certain items at auto parts stores, they will install them for free. Keep this in mind when you go and pick them up. For example, a new set of windshield wipers is around five dollars. An auto parts store will usually install them for you for free, while an auto body shop will charge you around $50.



Working on your car can make you feel uneasy, especially if you are new to auto repair. However, if you use the tips mentioned in the article above, there is no reason why you can't successfully repair your auto problems. This way, you'll save money, and feel great about tackling a problem yourself.