Saturday, June 22, 2013

Terrific Guidance You Can Use When Seeking Auto Repairs

By Fred Gagnon


Everyone has to deal with automobile problems at one time or another. Don't let car breakdowns stress you out. This article is loaded with useful information concerning auto repair. Keep it handy and apply all of the great auto tips and advice the next time your car starts giving you trouble.

When trying to get an estimate for the cost of your auto repairs, ask the technician how they calculate the cost. There are some shops that charge you a flat rate for parts and labors, but others will try and charge you a fee for each hour they spend fixing your car.

Make sure your auto technician is qualified to work on your specific car. Motor vehicles are complex machines and each brand has unique characteristics. Some brands require special tools, parts, and procedures. Many standard auto technicians either lack these items or don't have them easily available. Without these items, they can't fix your vehicle.

Record each repair that you have done on your car. If your car has issues in the future, it is useful to be able to give your mechanic all such records. These records will make identifying issues much easier to diagnose and will save you time and money.

Make sure you are receiving OEM parts. OEM parts means that part was produced by the manufacturer specifically for your make and model of vehicle. While generics are much cheaper, they are not held to the same quality standards. You may save in the short term, but additional failures could end up costing you big time.

There are no standard warranties on repairs. Make sure you are aware of what your warranty covers and that you have it in writing. Warranties may have limitations such as deductibles, mileage, time, businesses authorized to do the warranty work or special steps needed to get reimbursement. Know your warranty rights.

If you're performing your own repairs underneath a car and have it raised in the air, ensure that the lifting device you use is secure. Never lift a car that is not on level ground or on a firm surface. Always use jack stands in the proper position and never solely rely on a jack to keep a car raised off the ground.

Alternator

Get to know the dash board of your automobile. Your dashboard should reveal 5 different kinds of warning, like the check engine light, oil pressure warning, an alternator caution, a temperature warning and then a brake warning. Know how to distinguish these different lights in order to easily detect what really needs your attention.

Automotive problems are a frustrating and all too common part of life. At some point in time your car will break down on you. Armed with the knowledgeable tips and advice you have learned from reading this article you should be able to handle any minor auto problems yourself and avoid overspending on repairs.




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