If car trouble is something you’ve dealt with, and you probably have in the past, you need to know what to do when looking for repairs. It is hard to distinguish the dishonest mechanics from the good ones. Use this article to guide you in finding that honest repair shop.

Don’t sign anything until you know the total cost of repairs. If you don’t understand something, make sure to clarify it first. Don’t be surprised with extra costs when the car has been fixed.

Avoid unexpected auto repair problems while driving by performing a basic safety check before you set out in your car. Start your engine, turn on your lights and your flashers and walk all the way around your car. Check your tires and make sure your lights and flashers are working properly. This simple check will ensure a safer ride and help you avoid the need for emergency repairs.

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.

Know your car before taking it in for any auto repairs. If you have little knowledge on the specs of your model car, you may end up being taken for a ride without you knowing it. Read through your manual at the bare minimum before going for any larger repairs.

Don’t get sucked into to the lure of aftermarket parts for new cars. You want your baby to run as well as possible for as long as possible, and that means spending the extra to get parts that match the ones already in your car. Trying to get that clunker to run just a few more miles? Save the money and take the aftermarket versions.

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.

Before you pay the bill for any larger auto repair work, give your car a test drive. You want to make sure that the repairs were done to your satisfaction. If you haven’t paid, it makes it much easier to talk about any lingering issues that may still be around that need further fixing.

Avoid being run over by your own car! When you jack your car up, be sure to set your emergency brake. Place bricks behind the tires you are not working on to keep your car from rolling. Keep a set of wedges or three or four bricks in the trunk of your car in case you have to change a flat tire on a hill.

It is common for folks to seek repairs for one issue, only to be told that their car has additional problems. They do this to make you think you are getting a great deal. Tell them that you will get back to them, then search around and see if you can get a better deal.

Dealing with car problems is a hassle, but it is an unfortunate fact of life for most everyone. When an accident occurs the next time, think back to the advice you were given in this article. You’ll feel better when you are certain that the company you use is a good one.