When a person needs auto repairs, they may be scared. You need to learn more about auto repairs to make sure you are taking good care of your vehicle. Read this article to get a good basic knowledge before seeking out repair help.

Do not underestimate the importance of having an emergency kit in your car. This kit should include specific tools for charging your battery, changing your tire, etc. Also pack a few blankets, some batteries, and a good flashlight.

You don’t want rust to attack your car so take the time to wash it on a regular basis. All cars eventually get rusted, but the process can be delayed considerably by washing off any chemicals or salt immediately. Wax your car often to protect the paint, as often as you can.

Go over your owner’s manual and dog ear the most useful pages. When you show up to a mechanic’s shop, you are going to have to explain some information about your car. What you think may be an issue, may not be at all according to the manual.

Test drive your vehicle after repairs before paying the auto repair shop. If you don’t, you may find that you paid for nothing.

Ask for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. These are the manufacturer’s original parts. While they often cost a little more, they typically work better for longer periods of time. Getting a good deal on generic parts means you might have to purchase the same parts again and pay a mechanic to change them within the next few years.

If you need major repair work done, make sure to solicit multiple price quotes. The shop you’ve gone to may be trying to rip you off. Look around for reputable shops that specialize in your car’s make. There’s a good chance that these shops will know how to repair your car.

Replacing your own taillights and headlights is an easy way to save money. It’s simpler in some vehicles than others, but doing it yourself is much cheaper than hiring a mechanic. Ask someone you trust if he can teach you how to fix these problems.

Use your friends as referrals before you choose an auto repair shop. They can help point you in the right direction if so. Still, you should do some research on the shops they recommend. At least look for reviews online.

Avoid attaching your car keys to a heavy key chain or detach your keys every time you drive. This can help you drive safer and more secure. If your keys stick, take off some of the charms!

Do not hand the keys over until you have talked both price and the rates for labor. Make sure you’re asking questions if you’re not sure about the shop’s rates. It is crucial that you understand exactly how you will be billed for repairs. Many car dealerships may charge by “book time” which is a set rate based on how long the repair should take to do. Repairs that seem minor may take all day long.

If someone claims the parts they sell last a lifetime, run away. Often, that’s their way of getting more money out of you. Lifetime deals are typically not legitimate. It is true that this fluid lasts much longer than standard transmission fluid, but you will still need to change it out at around 80,000 miles.

It can cause major disruptions in your life when you are having car problems. However, if you’re able to keep just a little bit of information in mind and know what you’re doing, worrying will be the least of your problems. Keep this article handy, and you are going to have good information to help you handle the next problem.