If you own a vehicle, you need to learn a few things about auto repairs and maintenance. However, you may not know anything about the subject. This article contains some great tips for you when your car is need of repair.

Mechanics should have ASE certification before you hire them. An ASE certification means your mechanic has a minimum of two years’ experience in auto repairs. This certification also requires that he or she passes a written test. This is one good way to separate the wheat from the chaff when picking a good mechanic.

You don’t always have to call a mechanic when your car is giving your problems. Some jobs are simple and do not need to be taken to the auto shop. If you’d like, you could always conduct some research online to see if you can determine the problem. When it’s a simple fix, do it yourself!

Inquire as to whether the mechanic has had previous experience working on your specific vehicle model before. If the answer is yes, that’s a very good thing.

You should keep your car’s records in a handy location. It’s wise to keep them in your glove compartment in case you need to go to a auto repair shop on the fly. Auto service experts may need to refer to them. It will aid them in figuring out any issues.

Use the Internet to find reviews on an auto repair shop. This lets you know how other customers have felt. Use this information to choose a shop that you’re comfortable with giving money to.

You may not be a mechanic, but your trunk should always have a spare tire and a jack at the very least. Many newer cars already have them. You never want to be without them, as you could end up having to pay for an expensive tow. You do the job yourself with less time and expense.

Assemble a DIY auto repair tool kit to keep in the trunk of your car. The basic tools you will need include the tire changing equipment which should have come with your car. If you lack a lug wrench and a jack, purchase both. Also, it is wise to have screwdrivers, a ratchet set, Phillips head screwdrivers and wrenches. Never skimp when buying tools. Get high quality tools that will be able to withstand the test of time.

Look into an auto repair person that uses their own personal garage. You want to make sure the person is qualified, of course, but home mechanics can save you money on labor costs. This may result in substantial savings, and you can also provide such mechanics with much-needed work.

Speak with friends about auto shop recommendations before you pick a shop. Your relatives or friends may be able to tell you what they recommend so you can locate service more easily. That said, check up on who they refer as well. Read online reviews, and check with the Better Business Bureau as well.

Find technicians to do your auto repair tasks instead of your dealer. You can find a good technician anywhere by following good guidelines. Check out all of your options and go with the mechanic that you feel most comfortable with.

Never let a mechanic tell you that you need to have your entire engine flushed as normal maintenance. This service is very expensive and it isn’t necessary unless you have neglected engine care for some time.

Serious and potentially dangerous issues with a new car should be brought to the attention of the manufacturer Manufacturers issue recalls for some vehicles that have recurring issues and you can get your manufacturer to consider recalling the vehicle if other people run into the same problem. With a new car, the problem will generally be covered by the warranty, and the dealer will fix it.

A portion of auto repair comes from consistency. Find one shop that you like and stick with them. You may get different diagnoses of your car’s issues if you go to different places. The amount that they charge can be different and may cost you more.

Although dealer mechanics can be pricy, most of the time they offer the best experience. A dealer’s mechanic will know your car type inside and out. They are able to quickly diagnose your problems and are familiar with common issues to your vehicle’s make. They are also trained regularly.

You should always get back the old part a mechanic has removed after a new part has been installed. If they refuse, this could mean that they didn’t replace anything. If this happens, you need to challenge the mechanic and look for someone else in the future.

Put all the receipts you have for auto repairs in a plastic file, and keep this file inside your car. Divide them by repair, preventative care and maintenance or a chronology system. Whatever you choose, you’ll have a detailed records of your cars maintenance history which will be helpful for future repairs. It is just a helpful thing to do.

Mechanics that estimate over $200 for service should be asked for a written statement. Getting the estimate in writing can help you if ever you have to complain about the mechanic. Also, if there is already a written estimate in place, mechanics are less likely to start padding the bill.

Your financial responsibilities are only just beginning when you purchase a car. However, quite a few people aren’t aware that they can really learn how to take care of their vehicles. Take a second to read over all of the concepts discussed above and you will have what is required to maintain a running vehicle for years to come.