Vehicle issues can be an incredible nuisance, and often strike out of nowhere. If you learn a little about repairs and the inner workings of your car, you should be able to save yourself some money and stress. Use the tips here to make repairs yourself when feasible. Use the tips for finding a good mechanic. They will help you tremendously next time you need mechanical help.

You should always have an emergency kit available in your vehicle. Your kit should include jumper cables, tire changing tools and maybe some extra gas. For night time breakdowns, make sure to include warm blankets and a flashlight with extra batteries.

Make sure you often check the radiator. Start your car, wait a few minutes and shut it off so you can safely inspect the radiator. Never open your radiator if your vehicle is running. With a dipstick, check your radiator fluid. Before adding more coolant remember to mix it with water.

A record of maintenance and repairs should be in your car. You want these with you when you go to get repairs done; a great place to store them is the glove compartment. Professional mechanics will ask to review the records. The records can help them figure out the problem.

Use the Internet to search for local auto body shop reviews. This will let you know how others feel about the services they provide. Use this information to choose a shop that you’re comfortable with giving money to.

Ask for OEM parts. These are original parts direct from the manufacturer. Generic parts may cost less, but you cannot really tell if they are the best quality. It can appear like a deal right now and cost twice the amount later as OEM components to begin with.

A spare tire and a jack are essential items to keep in your trunk. Most new cars come with them. You’re not going to want to be paying money for being rescued by a tow truck after finding yourself stuck. Changing your tire is a simple process that can save you an expensive visit from an auto service club.

Sometimes you can find a good mechanic who works in their home garage. For basic repairs they can charge far less and you both can be happy. You may save a lot of money by going down this route.

Before you decide on an auto shop, ask your friends to talk about their car repair experiences. Personal recommendations are usually honest and forthright. You should still do your research however. You should at least look for the company on the Internet so you can figure out how other people have felt about their services.

In the winter, you still need to wash your car. Winter can ruin the quality of your car with constant precipitation. In particular, it can cause the car to rust. Take care to dry your vehicle before driving it again. You wouldn’t want ice to form.

You do not always have to have your dealer repair your car. 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. Check out all of your options and go with the mechanic that you feel most comfortable with.

Car repairs can be overwhelming. It also can be expensive. You will save both time and money with a little knowledge regarding car maintenance and repairs.