Few things are as frustrating as having your car break down far away from home. You have to worry about the immediate affects, in addition to having to locate a mechanic. How do you pick the right mechanic? Use the following tips to find the right auto repair service.

You do not have to contact a mechanic every time your car has problems. Some of the work can be done on your own, as there are problems that are relatively easy to repair. If you'd like, you could always conduct some research online to see if you can determine the problem. If the job is a simple one, you might save a used Mercedes vans bit of money if you make repairs on your own.

Always ask your mechanic for OEM parts. These parts are original and from the manufacturer. Generic parts may cost less, but you cannot really tell if they are the best quality. What could be a good deal in the present won't always be the best thing to for you later, so try using OEM parts when you're able to.

Inspect your manual so that you know what each dashboard light represents. They were put there for your assistance, so use them for that. Don't ignore any dashboard lights that come on, as the problem may grow worse if it's ignored.

Always know when your oil should be switched out. It is essential to have your oil changed so that your engine runs properly and and works at its peak performance. If you don't get an oil change then your vehicle's life could be shorter so you have to be sure to remind yourself.

Keep in mind that it's not always safe to do some auto repairs. Work with someone nearby if you do plan to work on your car. Purchase good quality tools that you do not have to worry about breaking. This is the case especially when you are investing in equipment to change your tires. The jack needs to be reliable so you are safe when you go under the car. A hydraulic floor jack featuring approved stands is best for these situations.

It may be a good idea to fully photograph your car internally and externally prior to taking it in for repairs. Though the majority of such shops are trustworthy, some shops strip vehicles for profit. You should document what the vehicle looks like in case you experience this terrible thing.

Do not diagnose car problems yourself. Remember, you're not a professional. Problems can be more complicated than they initially appear. Let the mechanic diagnose the problem. Tell them what you've observed, and then let them do their job.

Don't allow auto mechanics to persuade you that getting an engine flushed is normal maintenance. Flushing an engine can be expensive and is only needed in cases where the engine is in bad shape.

If your car is new, contact the dealer who sold it to you if you find a serious safety concern. Your car may be recalled, especially if other people have complaints. Sometimes, you will get the auto repair for free.

AAA is an excellent ally to have on your side when you've got auto repair issues. Having AAA comes in handy regarding towing needs or a good deal worked out with a mechanic. Many times, AAA have set discounts to decrease your costs.

Sometimes it can be rather costly to pay the dealer mechanics, but this can be your absolute best option. Mechanics who work at a dealership often know a certain model really well. They can figure out what's wrong quickly. There are many training programs that they have to pass to become certified.

Have your mechanic give you any original parts that are replaced. If the mechanic does not give you your old part, then this is a good indicator that it actually wasn't replaced. This should raise warning flags that should be confronted.

Selecting the right company to repair your car is often difficult. When you have proper information, doing it is a lot easier. Understanding what things you need to look out for and what questions you should ask will give you a big advantage. Make use of the tips from this article when you next face car repairs.