Are you interested in need of auto repair yourself? Fixing a car can be intimidating, but it is a very rewarding experience. Not only will it save you some serious money, your car will last longer since it is well cared for. Use the tips below to help you do your own car repairs.

The mechanic that you use should be A.S.E certified. This certification means that the technician has passed a written test and has over 2 years of experience under his or her belt. This means you have the best mechanic performing maintenance on your automobile.

Don’t underestimate how important it is to keep an emergency kit inside your car. This kit should include specific tools for charging your battery, changing your tire, etc. A few blankets, flashlights and spare batteries are also great to have.

You don’t always need a mechanic when your car is having problems. Some of the work can be done on your own, as there are problems that are relatively easy to repair. Check online to find out what might be wrong with your car. If the job is not too complicated, you will save money by attempting the repairs yourself.

Make sure the repair shop technician is familiar with the particular model of your vehicle. If the mechanic says they have, then they are likely aware of just what repairs need to performed in order to have your car operating well again.

Make sure that you wash your car frequently to reduce rust and corrosion. Cars are all destined to rust, but the process can be slowed by keeping salt and chemicals away from the paint whenever you can. A good wax is your best friend: a friend that will protect that shiny new paint job for a long time.

Every time your car is repaired, no matter why it is, keep a record of the repair. If you have problems later, it may help the mechanic to see these notes. If you lack such records, you may end up paying more money for diagnostic work.

Buy OEM parts. These are original manufacturer parts. While generics are much cheaper, they are not held to the same quality standards. It might be a great deal, but if you have to continue to replace the part, it is not going to be a good deal in the long run.

When your headlights or taillights burn out, you can save a lot of money on repairs if you do it yourself. It’s easier to do in some cars, but it’s more cost effective than hiring a mechanic. Ask for help from friends and family.

Put reminders on your calendar that tell you when to have your oil changed. Oil changes are important so your car can run smoothly. Most mechanics will place a sticker inside your vehicle to remind you of when the next oil change is due, but you should write down when you changed the oil if you do this yourself.

It is just as important to get your car washed in winter as it is in summer. Winter is actually the season when your car’s exterior gets the most damage. Sand and salt on the roads can cause rust and corrosion. Be sure to dry your car prior to driving your car so icing does not occur.

Don’t be intimidated by the subject of need auto repair. While the parts of your car may look confusing, you can start getting to know them better so that you can make the repairs. Remember this article if you need to refer to it. They will help you envision the possibility of fixing your car.