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

 
 

View User's Journal

inkface86podany
Wear and tear on your car can quickly become an expensive disaster if you aren't sure how to do simple maintenance. In the case that you have to fix something, doing it yourself can save money. Read this tips in this article so you can learn simple and useful auto repair.



Inquire as to whether the mechanic has had previous experience working on your specific vehicle model before. If they have, you should feel better about their ability to solve your problem.



When you are going to get your car repaired at a shop, ask the technician what type of parts they plan to use to get the job done. Many places use refurbished parts, but they would be willing to use new parts if you wanted to pay the extra money.




<img src="http://carindustryanalysis.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/chrysler-200c-ev-concept-car.jpg" />











When trying to get an estimate for the cost of your auto repairs, ask the technician how they calculate the cost. There are some shops that charge your a flat rate for parts and labors, but others will try and charge you a fee for each hour they spend fixing your car.



In addition to basic tire changing equipment, keep a plastic tote filled with DIY auto repair supplies in the trunk of your car in case of emergencies. Fill it with at simply click the up coming site of motor oil, transmission fluid, steering fluid, and brake fluid and a gallon of water. Add a can of penetrating oil spray, a roll of duct tape, twine, bungee cords and basic tools so that you can manage minor repairs on the road.



If your vehicle seems to be leaking fluids, start by replacing the gaskets and seals. The most common area for leaks is where different parts join together. You may not need an expensive repair if the leak stems from one of these easily replaceable areas. If the leak continues after replacement, you may have a more extensive leak.



Be careful of mechanics that do unnecessary repairs to the car. Mechanics may make recommendations, but they should never make repairs without your authorization. Never bring your car to someone who doesn't do the right kinds of repairs.



In addition to basic tire changing equipment, keep a plastic tote filled with DIY auto repair supplies in the trunk of your car in case of emergencies. Fill it with at least a quart each of motor oil, transmission fluid, steering fluid, and brake fluid and a gallon of water. Add a can of penetrating oil spray, a roll of duct tape, twine, bungee cords and basic tools so that you can manage minor repairs on the road.



Always exercise the highest level of caution when working with your car's fuel system. Never work around fuel tanks, fuel lines or pumps with sources of ignition such as cigarettes or anything that could produce a spark. Wipe up any fuel spills immediately, and protect yourself by wearing fuel-resistant gloves and eyewear.



Keep your car manual in your car. In fact, keep the manual and any other documentation your car may have, including details on past repairs, tune-ups and more. The more data points your auto repair shop has to look into an issue, the better chance that they'll be able to give you a strong idea about what is going on with your car.



Don't put off washing your vehicle during the winter time. While it probably doesn't seem like there's a point, winter time can be damaging to your vehicle. Roads filled with sand and salt can really do some corrosive damage to your car. If you take the time to dry the vehicle well before hitting the road again, you can stop icing from occurring.



Before you drop off your car at a repair shop, take pictures of what the car looks like beforehand. Though the majority of such shops are trustworthy, some shops strip vehicles for profit. Because of this, it is advisable to get proof of what you vehicle looked like before it goes to the shop, just in case.



Go to a repair shop you are considering for the long haul with a smaller job first. It can be something as simple as an oil change or a tire rotation. This will give you at least a better hint of their capabilities, workmanship and friendliness before a bigger issue occurs.



If you are paying to have new parts installed in your car, ask http://www.leadertelegram.com/News/Front-Page/2016/08/30/lt-div-class-libPageBodyLinebreak-gt-Crashing-stereotypes-lt-div-gt.html if you can see them. There is no reason why he should refuse to let you see what you have paid for. If you have any indication that the items are not new, tell the mechanic that you will be getting the work done elsewhere.



Don't ignore a &Check Engine& light. Many people think it's ok since they continue to run their car with no obvious issues. But a check engine light would have never appeared unless some internal check failed. It's best to get it looked into immediately, or you run the risk of a larger problem down the road.



Check a variety of sources of information before attempting an auto repair for the first time. Do a good online search, watch instructional videos and seek out books at your local library and take time to talk with an experienced mechanic before you dive in to try that repair. Once you feel comfortable with the concept, make a list of the things you need and the steps you will need to take to make the repair successfully.



Keep an accordion file in the car to keep receipts. Have them divided by the kind of repairs done or put them in chronological order, with the newest receipts first. Keeping a detailed record of all the repairs made is very useful and can help your mechanic diagnose recurring issues very quickly. This can be priceless.



The subject of auto repair is a mystery to many, despite the essential role reliable transportation plays in the lives of almost everyone. By understanding how to perform or secure quality auto repair work, it is important to have a solid understanding of some fundamental concepts. Keep the above information in mind, and you are sure to keep your car in good repair for years to come.





 
 
Manage Your Items
Other Stuff
Get GCash
Offers
Get Items
More Items
Where Everyone Hangs Out
Other Community Areas
Virtual Spaces
Fun Stuff
Gaia's Games
Mini-Games
Play with GCash
Play with Platinum