Nothing is worse than the feeling you get if your car breaks down on the highway. Besides immediate hazards, it can be annoying to find a reliable mechanic. How can you know which mechanic is the best? The following advice will help you get the best service.

Have records for your car on hand. You may want to have them in the glove compartment, so you can get to them easily if you need an emergency repair. The auto mechanic will need to refer to these records. This can make the process go more smoothly.

Before taking your vehicle to an auto repair shop, check out their online reviews. This will also allow you to know what the public thinks of how they handle customers and how good they are at solving any problem you may encounter. This can play a big part in the shop you eventually choose to do your car repair work.

Ask for OEM parts. This means that you are getting manufacturer made parts and not replicas. Generic are cheaper, but also less reliable. Though you may think you are getting a deal with generic parts, in the long run, you will end up paying double than you would have if you had gotten OEM parts.

If you notice your headlights do not shine as brightly as they used to, check to make sure they are clean. Headlights often accumulate grime and other debris during normal use. Use a quality glass cleaner to keep your lights clean.

Get multiple estimates if you’re in need of major service. Although most repair shops can be trusted, you do not want to have to spend some more unnecessary repairs. Search for trustworthy shops that are experienced in repairing your car’s make. These shops can better understand the needed repairs for your vehicle.

Check around for a reputable mechanic by asking friends who are happy with their mechanic. As long as he knows what he is doing, he can charge less for the same work. This savings in labor costs can add up to hundreds. It also supports a small independent business.

Speak with friends about auto shop recommendations before you pick a shop. They can help point you in the right direction if so. That said, check up on who they refer as well. At least try to find some online reviews on the shops that they recommend.

Avoid fluffy, silly keychains, or find a way to separate your auto key from that bunch of keys on the chain! The ignition on your car is not devised to hold all the weight, even when you don’t consider it heavy. When the key begins to stick in position, you have to replace all of the tumblers or endure more serious damage.

Be sure you know how often the oil needs changing. In order for your vehicle to run as well as possible, you need to have the oil changed regularly. 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.

You do not necessarily have to go through your dealership if repairs are needed. There are many shops where skilled auto technicians reside. If you feel a good comfort level with someone, you should hire them.

Picking out the best auto repair mechanic may be hard. Dealing with auto repairs will be much easier once you learn more about this topic. Your experience will clearly be better when you know exactly what to ask and what you need to expect. Remember the tips in this piece anytime your car breaks down.