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Owning a car gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want. However, owning a car also means that you have to keep your vehicle in good working order. By learning some of the basics of auto repair, you can make sure that your car is always running smoothly.



There are many how-to videos that you can turn to for auto repairs. Everything from a simple tire change to changing your fuel filter can be found in video form. These videos will take you through each step in making the repair and will save you the time and the cost of taking it to a mechanic.











Checking and repairing the air conditioning in your car is click over here now . If you need to have it checked or fixed, find a mechanic with an air conditioning certification. The gas used for air conditioning is potentially dangerous and this system is a lot more complex than the other parts in your vehicle.



Wash your car regularly to prevent rust from becoming a problem. Although all cars rust at some point in time, it is possible to delay this from occurring by washing off salt and chemicals immediately. A good wax can help you keep your paint job protected well.



Consider using OEM parts. These are the manufacturer's original parts. Generic parts may cost less, but they are not as good. They may initially be a deal, but the generic parts may make you pay more in the long run.



Do not assume you have been ripped-off by your mechanic because of the high price of your bill. Some parts are very expensive to replace, including engines, transmission systems or dashboard computers. You should ask your mechanic about the cost of the parts he had to put in your car.






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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.



If your car door and hatch locks tend to become stiff, avoid breaking your key off in the lock by lubricating them periodically with a penetrating oil spray. You can use the plastic extender that comes with the spray can to deliver oil to the interior of the locking mechanism. If you have misplaced this extender, just spray your key liberally and turn it in the stiff lock several times.



Be wary of mechanics that try and make unnecessary repairs to your car. A reputable mechanic will let you know when they see something else wrong with your vehicle and they'll give you options as to how to proceed. Do not take your care twice to a mechanic who performed some unnecessary repairs.



Remember, you are owed an estimate before any work occurs on your car. If you did not receive an estimate and work did begin, do not feel obligated to move forward with any sort of payment. Move onto a more reputable auto shop as soon as possible if this occurs.



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.



If you need to get your vehicle fixed, choose a garage or a dealership that hires certified technicians. The person who runs the place might have a certification but this does not mean that certified people will work on your car. Choosing certified technicians is a good way of making sure qualified people are fixing your car.



Take your owner's manual with you when you go to the auto repair shop to get work done. If someone tells you that you need to get a service after a certain amount of miles, check and see if that matches what is in the manual. If it does not, let them know that you decline that particular service.



Always bleed your brakes if you have been working on them. After you do this you should pump your brake fluid. Check for leaks. After this, you can test your car in light traffic. Go slowly at first until Recommended Browsing has been made properly.



Be sure to keep the area where you are working on your car free of hazards. Keep your tools and spare parts picked up so that you and others will not trip over them. Be sure to work in an area with good ventilation so that you won't be overcome by potentially toxic fumes. Have a bag of cat litter on hand to clean up spills quickly to avoid slipping.



Given its significant function in your daily life, your car is almost another member of your family. When breakdowns occur, you want to be certain your car is getting the attention and care it deserves. If you keep the above tips close by at all times, you will never be at a loss when it comes to getting the repair work your car needs.