When your car next needs repairs, would you like to do them yourself? Nowadays, the smallest of problems causes car owners to run to their mechanic. This article can be a useful guideline if you need to get your car repaired. The tips below can help you save money and feel good about doing it.

Make sure that your mechanic is A.S.E certified before you let them work on your car. They have passed tests and have at least two years experience under their hat. This type of mechanic is the best choice for your vehicle.

Bring a battery charger with you in your trunk. People commonly experience dead batteries, making battery chargers good for helping stranded drivers. Familiarize yourself with how the charger hooks up to your battery.

Prior to having your car repaired, ask how much you will have to pay. When you’re not sure, ask until you feel clear. Don’t find yourself stuck with extra charges later.

Watch out for mechanics who perform unnecessary repairs on your car. A mechanic that is good will notify you of parts that show signs of deterioration and will soon need replacement, but they shouldn’t replace it without having your approval. If a mechanic tries to charge you for unneeded repairs, find another mechanic.

Always have a repair kit located in your car; you can put one together yourself. The basic tools you will need include the tire changing equipment which should have come with your car. You need to purchase a lug wrench and a jack if you do not have them. Also, you need Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers, a ratchet set, and various types of wrenches. Avoid cheap tools. Invest in quality tools that don’t break in the middle of a critical repair.

See if any of your friends or family members have had a positive experience at a particular auto shop. Your relatives or friends may be able to tell you what they recommend so you can locate service more easily. You’ll still need to do some investigating. Use online resources to see feedback from others as well.

Always keep a clear and easy path to your key on the keychain. It is advised that you remove any and all fluffy keychains from the ring. The ignition is not suited to that weight, even when you think it isn’t much. If your keys starts sticking, you need the tumblers replaced.

Know what your dashboard warning lights mean, and keep an eye on them. These symbols light up to warn you of a problem. If you ignore them, the problem can get worse.

Make sure you become knowledgeable on standard car-part classifications before visiting a mechanic. Learn the difference between rebuilt parts, salvage parts, and new parts. New parts just mean that they are designed according to the specifications of the manufacturer. Used parts that have been made good as new are classified as reconditioned. They may also carry a tag as “rebuilt,” or even “re-manufactured.” “Salvage” refers to used parts that aren’t altered.

A warranty is one of the most important things you’ll need for car repairs. Ask the mechanic about the parts’ warranty. Inquire as to how long it is for and get a printed copy.

Sometimes a mechanic will recommend you do an engine flush, but this is not usually a required maintenance procedure. This expensive service is only necessary if you have introduced the wrong fluids into your system or have not been changing the oil often enough.

Problems seem to crop up only when the car is left with a mechanic. Some shops use this tactic to try and get you to spend more money. Tell the mechanic that you will need to think about it, then shop around for a better price.

OEM also known as original equipment manufacturer. This can be helpful if parts are being replaced on your car. If you walk in and tell the mechanic that you want OEM parts, you will sound knowledgeable. As a result, the mechanic will be less likely to take advantage of you.

The thought of doing auto repair can be difficult to understand. Through a little effort and knowledge, minor repairs can be made to your car. Take the above advice into consideration and keep your vehicle purring like a kitty.