You probably think of your vehicle as one of the best things in your life because you need it to to go places. Maybe you wish to learn more about cars and their repair. If this is true, then you have found a great article on how you can do some simple car maintenance.

Mechanics should have ASE certification before you hire them. This indicates passage of written testing and experience of no less than two years. This is a good way of finding a qualified mechanic who will care about doing a good job so they can keep their certification.

Be sure and regularly check your radiator. Run your engine for several minutes, and then turn it off and pop your hood. Refrain from opening the radiator when your car is on. Check radiator fluid by using a dipstick and remember to dilute coolant with water prior to adding it.

Do not give your keys to your mechanic before knowing more about the cost of the repairs. If you don’t understand something, clarify your concerns with the mechanic or service adviser before they work on the car. This will give you a good idea of what you will be paying.

Check out reviews about body shops online. These reviews will inform you of the company’s quality, customer service satisfaction rates, etc. You can use the information to find a place you’ll feel comfortable spending your money at.

Ask your mechanic to use OEM parts. These are original manufacturer parts. It can cost a lot less to use parts that are generic, but you won’t get the most out of these things after a while. What saves you a bit of money in the short term, may end up costing you dearly in the long term.

Check and make sure that your mechanic is familiar with working on your type of car. Basic components are usually the same, but things like hood space vary by brand. It may be worth the extra cost to have a specialized dealer fix a major problem with your car.

If you notice your vehicle’s headlights or taillights have blown out, then it is possible to repair these issues yourself rather than visiting a mechanic in order to save money. Having a mechanic do it is horribly expensive. Ask someone you trust if he can teach you how to fix these problems.

Ask about prices and labor rates before you give your keys to a mechanic. Make sure you’re asking questions if you’re not sure about the shop’s rates. You will need to know what to expect on the final bill. Some service shops have estimated times for repair, establish by the manufacturers. A manufacturer may consider a relatively minor repair to be an all day job.

When you fill your car with gas, check tire pressure. Inspect your tires and look for embedded rocks or small objects. If you notice a problem with your tires, get it fixed immediately. Driving with faulty tires is extremely dangerous.

Since your car is so important, taking care of it is crucial. Simple maintenance tips can help you save so much money and keep you out of the auto repair shop. Use the information you’ve learned for the next time you find your car is in need of repair.