Content author-Dam Cole

Everyone has to deal with automobile problems at one time or another. Don't let car breakdowns stress you out. Pro tech transmission 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 taking your car to a repair service, make sure that you have all documentation handy. This is important as you do not want the mechanic to do tasks that have already been performed on your car. This can help you save a lot of time and money with your 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.

If any parts of your car need to be replaced, make sure you ask for the (OEM) Original Equipment Manufacturer parts instead of generic parts. Keeping the exact specifications required by the manufacturer is essential in having optimum performance. Although generic parts are cheaper, spending a little more on OEM parts will make a big impact on your car's longevity.

If you are having work done on your car, make sure you get a written estimate beforehand. The estimate should include what is being repaired, the parts that will be needed and the anticipated cost for labor. It should also say that they will call for your approval before doing any additional work which exceeds the amount or time specified.

You should have basic tools in your car at all times. Basic tools that should be included are tire changing tools. You will need to get a lug wrench and a jack if you don't already have them. You will need several screwdrivers, ratchets, socket wrenches, an adjustable wrench and a torque wrench. Don't waste your money on bad quality tools. Purchase solid tools that are resistant to breakage.







Changing a car battery is quick and easy. It usually involves unfastening a clip on top of the battery and using a wrench to loosen and remove the connectors. (Naturally, you should do this with your engine off!) Brush the connectors clean with a wire brush. Lift out https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OdQkU8Dce4wPM1qb8aK0i2eN1Fcc_VjP7JhLEPzL7Ms/edit and put the new battery in its place. Fasten the connectors securely and refasten the clasp. You should be good to go!

Before you pay the bill for any larger auto repair work, give your car a test drive. You want to make sure that the repairs were done to your satisfaction. If you haven't paid, it makes it much easier to talk about any lingering issues that may still be around that need further fixing.

Keep a log that includes information on any maintenance that you have ever done on your car. To make things easy, put this log in your glove compartment box. If there is an issue with your car, this information can help the technician figure out what is going on much more quickly.

Be wary of auto repair shops that try to pressure you into getting repairs done. You may go into a shop for one thing, and the mechanic will tell you that you have other problems. It's fine if a mechanic informs you of any possible work that may need to be done, but when they try to turn it into a requirement, rather than an option, it's time to find a new mechanic.

After fixing the brakes but before you test drive it, bleed the brakes. Pump your brake fluid afterwards. Make sure there are no leaks causing you to lose valuable brake fluid. Now you can take your car out for a test drive on roads with light traffic. Don't drive too fast at first to make sure everything is working properly.

If you need new tires, do not get used ones from a garage or a junk yard. Used tires are not a good choice since they might be worn thin or have already been patched. Brand new tires are expensive but they are a good investment and will help you remain safe.

If you see a small problem in your vehicle, you should take your car in to check it out anyway. Often times, ignoring small issues lead directly to more serious ones.

Keep in mind that you don't need the dealer for auto repairs. You should be able to find reliable mechanics in your area, either by going to a repair shop or an independent garage. If you are more comfortable with one of them, by all means use them.

Be sure to get a written estimate from your auto mechanic before he does nay work on your car. Even if he tells you a price verbally, you should try getting it down on paper. Many states do not allow anyone to charge too much more than the estimate given at the beginning.

When you take your car to an auto repair shop, try to have a good description of the problem. Just telling the mechanic the car is screwed up won't help him or her to solve the problem. Provide details. You should know how long the problem has existed and when it occurs. Note whether or not dashboard warning lights are illuminated. Describe any sounds, smells or vibrations that accompany the problem.

If you pull up to a gas station while their tankers are still there, pull-out and come back another day. The initial day while tankers are still filling the tanks at the gas station, the pressure will stir up the dirt and debris at the bottom of the underground tank.

Have your break pads replaced regularly. You can change them yourself if you know how to take them apart but it is best to have a professional do it for you if you have no experience with replacing break pads. Invest in quality break pads to replace your old ones.

Find out about labor rates before you let a mechanic work on your car. You should have your mechanic diagnose the issues and assess how much work will be needed. Make sure you understand how the mechanic will bill you and have a manager give you an estimate of how much labor time is needed instead of trusting a technician who is not responsible for giving quotes.

Car trouble does not have to be as scary or time consuming as it was in the past, if you know how to fix basic things. By knowing how to fix small repairs and which mechanic to select for the larger repairs, you can save yourself a lot of time and money. So keep these tips in mind if your car develops problems again.