If you drive a car with any degree of regularity, it is important to understand the fundamentals of quality auto repair. That said, many people don’t know the basics. Thankfully, the tips below are a great start.

Prior to having your car repaired, ask how much you will have to pay. If you don’t understand something, clarify your concerns with the mechanic or service adviser before they work on the car. You don’t want to get the car back, only to be shocked at how much the repairs cost you.

You don’t always have to call a mechanic when your car is giving your problems. Some car repairs are easy to do yourself. Try troubleshooting the issue on the Internet or talk to your friends to see if they have an idea of what could be wrong with your vehicle. If it is a simple fix, you can usually do it yourself.

Take the time to read your car manual and know the basics of how your car works. When you do have to deal with a mechanic, you can show him the copy of the manual, which can help him. You may figure out, that when the manual is read that your issue is something you may be able to fix on your own.

A spare tire and a jack are essential items to keep in your trunk. A lot of newer vehicles are already equipped with these things. You’re not going to want to be paying money for being rescued by a tow truck after finding yourself stuck. It is simpler and cheaper to do the work yourself.

You should have basic tools in your car at all times. You will want to have the tools necessary to change a tire, and they likely came with the vehicle. If you don’t have a jack and lug wrench, get one. You should have a Phillips and flat head screwdriver and several types of wrenches. Do not waste money by getting cheap tools. Instead, buy better quality, sturdy tools that will not break when you need them to repair something.

If you’re having major service performed by an auto repair shop, always get more than one estimate for the job being done. Although most auto shops are reliable, you don’t want to pay too much. Try to find shops that are experts in fixing your specific type of car. Shops like these understand your car through and through.

When you have a burnt out light on your car, it can save you some money if you’re able to repair it yourself. It’s easy in some vehicles, and it’s a lot cheaper than having someone else do it. If you are not confident, ask a friend or family member if they can help you.

Oil Needs

Make sure that you remind yourself of how often your oil needs to be changed. If you want your car to run the way it should, its oil needs to be changed regularly. If you don’t change it, your car could stop working much earlier than expected.

Keeping your car in proper running order is a necessary chore of life for most people. Not everyone knows how to find a good mechanic or do their own repairs. Use the information given in this article and you are sure to have your car running smoothly.