When your vehicle breaks down, getting it running again should be your priority. If you don’t have a working car, it can be hard to travel. That said, you can keep costs to a minimum. You can perform many simple repairs yourself, as well as find a way to save money on auto repair shops whenever they are necessary.

You want to be sure that the mechanic working on your vehicle is A.S.E certified. This certification means that the technician has passed a written test and has over 2 years of experience under his or her belt. This will ensure that you have the cream of the crop working on your vehicle.

If any parts of your car need to be replaced, make sure you ask for the (OEM) Original Equipment Manufacturer parts instead of generic parts. Keeping the exact specifications required by the manufacturer is essential in having optimum performance. Although generic parts are cheaper, spending a little more on OEM parts will make a big impact on your car’s longevity.

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.

When searching for an auto repair shop, you should choose one that specializes in the brand of vehicle you have. While there are probably many trustworthy shops in your area, going with one specializing in your car makes it more likely that the technician knows what they are doing. They will also probably have many parts needed for your car.

It is important to be aware of mechanics who make repairs that are not necessary. Good mechanics will tell you about worn down pieces without replacing them automatically. If a mechanic performed a repair you did not authorize, you should not take your vehicle to them twice.

Your car owners manual is actually a valuable guide to the workings of your car. That means that you should not trash it as soon as you leave the dealer. It can tell you everything from what that light on your dash means, to how to perform basic maintenance on your particular model.

Keep an eye on the lights located on the dash, and make sure you are aware of what they all mean. They are located there to assist you, so use them to your advantage. Do not ignore these lights or you might have to pay for more expensive repairs later on.

When it is time to bring your car in for work, think carefully about whether you want to go to the dealer or a local repairman. The dealer often knows the most about your particular type of vehicle, but they generally cost the most as a result. Weigh your options and go with what is right for you.

Unless it is required by your car’s warranty, don’t feel obligated to use the repair shop 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.

Watch out for the type of shop that will take off your good tires and put old ones on. Shops will do this to take advantage of those who are not wise enough to catch them. Prior to taking your car to the garage, use chalk to mark your tires. If the marks are gone, talk to the mechanic.

There are many things, such as changing oil, checking fluids and changing tires that can be easily within your skill level. For the most part, you can resolve car issues at your own home. Use the info you’ve learned from this article the next time your car starts giving you problems.