Having your car suddenly stall and die while driving, especially on the highway, is not a pleasant feeling. Along with immediate hazards, you’ll need to find a mechanic to repair it. Do you know how to find a good mechanic or deal with repair problems? Use the tips described to help you find the right mechanic.

An emergency kit is a crucial item to have handy in your car. This kit will include the necessary tools for successfully charging a battery, changing a tire and adding gas to your tank. Add some blankets, a flashlight and some batteries in case your car breaks down at night.

Purchase motor oil on sale and in discount stores and keep two or three bottles in the trunk of your car. Check your oil every time you fill your gas tank. If you find that your oil level is low, you will save lots of money by having your own oil on hand rather than purchasing it at a gas station for inflated prices.

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.

If you’re performing your own repairs underneath a car and have it raised in the air, ensure that the lifting device you use is secure. Never lift a car that is not on level ground or on a firm surface. Always use jackstands in the proper position and never solely rely on a jack to keep a car raised off the ground.

The Automotive Service Excellence logo is a sign that you have found a good mechanic. Mechanics have to successfully pass an exam and maintain an excellent record to receive this logo. Not all good mechanics get this certification but you should still try finding a mechanic who is ASE certified.

A spare tire and a jack are essential items to keep in your trunk. The majority of new cars have them automatically. You would hate to be stuck out in the road and be forced to spend money on a tow. Changing your tire is a simple process that can save you an expensive visit from an auto service club.

Understand how the repair shop you are considering charges before signing any agreements. Some shops will charge a flat fee for labor, while others base it off of time. Some will opt for original parts, while others will use generics. Know what you have ahead of you before being accountable.

Learn how to perform basic maintenance on your vehicle. It is very easy to do a tune up or change your oil so there really is no reason to bring your car to an auto repair shop to have these things done. Instead, just watch tutorials online to learn what you need to do it on your own.

Before you go somewhere to take care of your automobile problems, learn what you can about car-part classifications. There are three conditions: salvage, new, and rebuilt and re-manufactured. Insist on new parts for all your repairs. Parts that are listed as “re-manufactured, rebuilt and reconditioned” means that the parts are used but restored to original condition. However, salvage is simply another word for a used part.

Choosing an auto repair company can be difficult. But, it can be a lot less hassle when you have the right information to hand. Asking the right questions and understanding red flags is key. Keep this information in mind, and use it whenever you experience car trouble.