Helpful Auto Repair Tips For You

Car owners understand that vehicles break down every once in awhile. Most of us simply take our vehicles to an auto repair station no matter how small the problem is. Wouldn't you like to fix your car yourself? The following article will teach you the ins and outs of auto repair.

Check the fluids in your car regularly. Check the oil level with the dipstick you can find under your hood. The dipstick should have a mark on it to indicate the ideal oil level. Add a quart of oil if you need to and check the level again after letting your car run for a few minutes.

Be sure to read your owner's manual to find out what kinds of fluids (oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, steering fluid) your car needs and to learn how to check and top these off yourself. Keep a few bottles of each fluid in the trunk of your car in case of emergencies.

Independent garages and mechanics are usually much cheaper than dealerships. You might get a discount at your dealership if you purchased your car recently but do not make a habit of going to your dealership if you find their prices too expensive. Find out about local independent garages with a good reputation instead.

Always ask lots of questions when you take your car to get repaired. Don't let the mechanic intimidate you. Ask why something needs to be fixed or how it will be done. If the mechanic tries to brush you off, doesn't look at you, or refuses to answer your questions, consider taking your car to someone else.

Water Pump

Check the wet messes beneath your vehicle. Color and structure may help you find out the issue. When it is pale blue, yellow green or fluorescent-orange, it can be an antifreeze leak resulting from a bad hose, leaking radiator, or water pump, or a too hot engine. Dark brown or black oily messes could mean a bad gasket or seal is creating the leak. Red oily puddles are frequently the result of a power-steering or transmission fluid drip. Transparent puddles normally are not to fear of, simply because they could possibly be empilement from the automobile.

Working on your car can be an extremely rewarding experience. Not only do you save money, but it feels great as well. Be sure and use the advice mentioned in the article above the next time something on your car needs fixing. While it may be scary at first, the end result is priceless.