Protect yourself: Have them show you each needed item before and after repair; get written estimate; get second opinion before; verify repairs after; get old parts.
Because a car is mechanical, it can develop noises or vibrations when something is wrong.
What kind of noise is your car making? Don't be afraid to make the same noise for your technician (even if it's humerous)...Clicky clicky, squeal, groaning, etc.
The best solution is to note when it makes the noise or vibration...
All the latest diagnostic equipment is worthless without a trained and informed diagnostician. Today's diagnosticians must keep abreast with rapidly changing technology if they want to remain in the field.
The average student coming out of an automotive technical college needs two years to get 'up to speed' after joining the workforce. Diagnosticians must have access to over a million pages of technical information to fix computer-related problems.
How do you know if your car is overheating?
What should you do?
What should I do if my engine has overheated?
We have ALL experienced a dead battery, whether in the cold weather or not. Cold weather is the time most car batteries fail, but battery failure is not exclusive to the cold!
A battery service and test is the best insurance you can buy to keep you form being stranded next winter!
THE PROBLEM
Extreme temperatures stress your car -- especially the starting system. In the winter, when you have a cold engine, cold oil and a cold battery...well, it's a bad combination.
Weak batteries are caused by
If your car has driveability problems (stalling, bad mileage, roughness, etc.), a diagnosis is ALWAYS in order.
Did you know that today's cars can have as many as 3 computers each controlling separate systems? If it's not already obvious, this is NOT a job for discount tire and brake shops! Specialized equipment and training is required, and you would be wise to seek out a shop with ASE Master Technicians!
I recently came up with a list for travel safety for my car. I think it's a pretty complete list for just about any car trip you can take!
Got any kids coming along, too?
Basic Training - In addition to driver's education, teach them how things work and what to expect:
You should also get a complete safety inspection on your new driver's car and go over it with them. They will gain more:
Many people don't understand the importance of reacting quickly to cars messages. Cars give messages to us by way of warning lights and gauges. How quickly you react to a check engine light can often determine the cost of repair!
As a result of not reacting quickly to this warning light, a $150 valve cover gasket repair can turn into a $2500 head job.