It’s not easy to figure out how to fix your car. Get on the right track from the start and read this article for some helpful tips. Your skills may blow your mind.

Ensure you regularly inspect your radiator. Allow your car to run for just a few minutes, then shut off the engine, and open up the hood. Never open the radiator while the car is on. Check your radiator fluid and remember to mix water with coolant before filling your radiator.

The best way to find a good auto mechanic is getting referrals. Look to your family, friends, and colleagues for their suggestions. You can find out about a mechanics quality of work, their price, and overall satisfaction. Their experiences can be a huge help.

Once a repair shop has finished with your car, go on a quick spin to make sure things are working properly. People often don’t do this, realizing afterward that the problem still persists.

Consider using OEM parts. These are original parts direct from the manufacturer. Generic are cheaper, but also less reliable. What is a cheap option now could be an expensive option later.

Before dropping your car off for repairs, remove any valuables. The mechanic may find that these things get in the way and they may get misplaced to where they cannot be located later. Also, be sure to remove everything from the trunk.

If you’re headlights are giving off dull light, they may just be dirty. Sometimes a greasy residue from the road can be deposited one the lights and hold dirt that reduces the amount of light they put out. Wash them with glass cleaner and you should be able to see better.

Check with your mechanic to see of they have experience working with the make of your vehicle. While basic components may be the same, there are differences between cars due to the amount of space beneath the hood. It may be worth the extra cost to have a specialized dealer fix a major problem with your car.

Keep a spare tire and jack handy at all times. Many cars will come with these straight off of the dealership’s floor. You do not want to stuck in the middle of nowhere and have to pay a ton of money for a tow. You can save a lot of money by performing tasks yourself.

Tool Kit

Put together a small tool kit for your car and keep it in your trunk. The tools you need include tire changing equipment, which usually come with a car. If you don’t have a jack and lug wrench, get one. Your tool kit should contain these items: socket wrenches, ratcheting tools, a wrench for torque and one that is adjustable, and both a Phillips and a flat head screwdriver as well. Don’t buy inexpensive tools. Choose tools which will last the test of time, especially when they’re required.

Ask people you know about experiences they have had with repairing their cars. Their thoughts can make the whole search a lot simpler. You should still always do some research on the person they tell you about. At least look for reviews online.

Use the tips above when you next have a problem with your car. Don’t let a lack of the right knowledge end up costing you too much money. Take charge of your auto issues, and you’ll make wise decisions going forward.