The freedom that comes with owning a car can be exhilarating. Whatever you want to do, you can get there with ease. The flip side of this coin, is the possibility of unexpected breakdowns and inconvenience. The following tips will assist you in getting your car working once again.

Be sure that you have an A.S.E. certified mechanic before they are allowed to work on your vehicle. 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 type of mechanic is the best choice for your vehicle.

Keep an eye on your radiator levels. Allow your car to run for a bit and then turn it off and pop open the hood. Do not open the radiator if the car is running. Check the amount of fluid in your radiator with your dipstick and remember to mix the coolant with some water.

Find a mechanic who has experience with the make and model you drive. Cars can differ significantly, even if the general mechanical principles are the same. A luxury SUV is quite different from a hybrid Prius, for example. If you are unsure, pay the extra to have a dealer do the repairs.

If the repairs your car needs are major, get several quotes before hiring a mechanic. While you can usually trust an auto repair shop, you don’t want to be paying too much money for the repairs needed. Search for a reliable shops that is knowledgeable with your kind of car. You will get much better results if you go to a reliable auto shop.

It’s a great idea to consult with your friends and acquaintances when you’re in the market for a new garage or service center. Personal recommendations are usually honest and forthright. You should still always do some research on the person they tell you about. At least look for reviews online.

Know when your oil needs changing. Your vehicle may mot run smoothly or efficiently if you do not take this important step. If you don’t get an oil change then your vehicle’s life could be shorter so you have to be sure to remind yourself.

Remember you don’t need to use a mechanic for car problems. There are quite a few mechanics out there, whether you get your car into one of them or do things at home yourself there are many options. If someone makes you comfortable, use them.

Before you drop off your car at a repair shop, take pictures of what the car looks like beforehand. This way if you suspect something has been removed without your approval, you have photographic proof. To keep from having this horrible experience, make sure you document all area of your vehicle by taking clear and dated pictures.

Don’t try and figure out what is wrong with your car by yourself. Keep in mind that you are not a professional. Even problems that seem simple to fix may actually be complicated, particularly in newer model cars. Let repair shops diagnose your vehicle. Provide them with every detail of what happened and what was heard, but let them provide the final diagnosis.

You do not need to spend a fortune to get your car fixed if it breaks down. Most of the time, you should be able to repair your car yourself. Just use the tips you have read here to get your vehicle running again.