Following along with your instincts when fixing a vehicle is not always the best thing to do. This is why it is so important to at least understand the basics of auto repair. The importance of a vehicle to your life can make thinking about expensive repairs a nerve wracking experience. However, these tips can help you have a smoother experience.

A breakdown can happen at any time, so it is important to have an emergency kit somewhere in your car. Be sure the kit has tools for charging the battery, adding gas to the tank, and changing tires. Blankets may be added, some batteries and a flashlight for if you have a trouble with your car at night.

Regularly check your radiator. Keep your car running then shut the engine for several minutes before opening the hood. Refrain from opening the radiator when your car is on. Use a dipstick to gauge how much radiator fluid you have, keeping in mind that most types need to be diluted with water.

See if the prospective mechanic has experience with your type of car. If the mechanic says they have, then they are likely aware of just what repairs need to performed in order to have your car operating well again.

Do an online search of reviews about your local automotive repair shop. These reviews will inform you of the company’s quality, customer service satisfaction rates, etc. This information is useful as you search for the right shop for your needs.

Before paying your mechanic for any work done, make sure to take it for a short test drive first, to make sure everything is working as it should. If you do not do this, you may have the same issue when you get home.

OEM parts should be asked for. OEM parts are parts that are made by the manufacturer. Generic may be cheaper, but you don’t know the quality of these parts as time goes on. 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.

A spare tire and a jack are valuable items to have in case of an emergency. Most of the new cars of today have them in the trunk. You would hate to be stuck out in the road and be forced to spend money on a tow. It’s cheaper to do on your own.

Think about using a mechanic who fixes cars in his own garage. If they possess sufficient experience, they can typically do jobs for far less cost. You may save a lot of money by going down this route.

Make sure that you clean your car in the winter as well. Your car may get dirty again quickly, but all that buildup is terrible for your car. The sand and salt from winter leads to rust and abrasion. Take care to dry your vehicle before driving it again. You wouldn’t want ice to form.

Wouldn’t you like to have better and more reliable auto repair experiences? Just like the dentist, no one wants to have their car fixed, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use these tips to improve your experience. Take the information to heart, and get your car back in working order.