Whenever you experience car problems, you should not take them lightly. Because your car is a significant cost, you need to be equipped with a lot of knowledge on protecting this huge investment. This article can help you the next time vehicle problems arise.

Keeping a battery charger in your car is a good safety investment. Batteries die all the time, but you won’t be in trouble if you can charge it. Familiarize yourself with how the charger hooks up to your battery.

Inspect your radiator once in a while. Run your car, turn it off then pop the hood. Do not open the radiator if the car is running. Use a dipstick to gauge how much radiator fluid you have, keeping in mind that most types need to be diluted with water.

You don’t always need a mechanic when you have trouble with your car. Some car repairs are easy to do yourself. If you want to take a chance, you can go online and do some research to pinpoint what the problem is. If it is not a very difficult job, you can save some money by doing the repairs yourself.

It is important to be aware of mechanics who make repairs that are not necessary. Make sure that you give your approval first before a repair is done. Don’t go back to mechanics who made unneeded repairs.

Assemble a DIY auto repair tool kit to keep in the trunk of your car. You need to include a complete tire changing kit. A lug wrench and a jack are essential. You should also include a screwdriver set, a ratchet set, an adjustable wrench and a torque wrench. Don’t buy inexpensive tools. If you buy high quality tools, they will not break when you really need them.

When you need a major repair done, get numerous estimates. Most shops are on the up and up, but some will charge you for things that aren’t necessary. Look around for reputable shops that specialize in your car’s make. These shops can better understand the needed repairs for your vehicle.

You do not necessarily have to go through your dealership if repairs are needed. There are great technicians everywhere, whether you take your car to the shop ten minutes from your home or whether you go on in to your dealer. If you find someone that you’re comfortable with, they should be used.

It is important to get a warranty on your car when it gets repaired. This is even more important if the parts put in are pricy. Ask the mechanic beforehand what the warranty will be for any part, but especially the expensive ones. Ask how long it lasts, and request a physical copy of the contract.

Believe it or not, there are a few shady auto repair businesses that will take your newer tires and switch them with older tires. They are attempting to make money this way. Put chalk marks on the tires prior to bringing the car in. Look for the chalk when you pick up your car.

Do not believe claims that any auto part will last for a lifetime. Most of the time this is just a way for them to get their hands on more of your money. A common example is a car that has “lifetime” transmission fluid. It does not last a lifetime and has to be changed every 80k miles.

You should now have information that will help you when it comes to auto repair. You should feel more confident about handling auto repairs after going over these tips. Remember what you have learned so that you know what to do when your car needs repairing.