Are you looking for specific automotive resources? Here’s our comprehensive collection of our posts on all things automotive! From information on how engines work to instructions for how to rent a limo, we pride ourselves in offering useful resources from all across the automotive industry. Browse our collection or search to find your topic of interest.
As this list compiles information from a wide variety of sources, it may seem overwhelming. That said, as you browse, you may notice a helpful pattern! Here are a few of the different types of articles you’ll come across most often.
Unsure what information you’re looking for? Feel free to browse our extensive listings to see what you can find. From how refrigerator trailers work to tips for transmission care, we aim to provide you with all the automotive information you need.
On this page, you'll find quality resources for automotive topics. Anyone who owns a car knows they are going to have to complete repairs on it over time. Maintenance, including oil changes, is a part of the process. Yet, most cars will need more substantial repairs over time, and sometimes, it’s hard to spot the signs that your car needs to go in for repairs. Take a look at some of the most common signs your car needs a repair.
One of the most common signs of a problem is that the check engine light is on. This indicator shows up on the dashboard when there is a sensor within the engine that is warning you that there is a problem. It could be due to inefficiencies in oxygen or fuel or many other concerns. Other components of your vehicle also have lights like this, including the brakes. If these indicators come on, that’s a sign you should contact your mechanic for repairs right away. Don’t keep driving your car with these lights on because that could lead to a more serious problem, a breakdown, or even a fire.
Your car is dependent on a variety of fluids to keep it moving. If you notice any type of fluid under your vehicle when you pull away, it’s time to bring it in for repairs. Typically, dark stains are signs of an oil leak, which is problematic for the engine. You may also notice red fluid under your car. That indicates a potential problem with the transmission. Any time there’s fluid under the car that’s not water from the air conditioner that’s been running, don’t wait too long to bring your car to a repair technician.
Listen to your vehicle to pinpoint any problems with the car. The way it sounds when operating normally is an important distinction to make. If you hear squealing, a revving sound, or other sounds that are not normal, that indicates something is not working the way it should. You may have a simple problem, like a hose that has come loose. Other times, the problem may be due to metal-on-metal wear, which is never safe. Listen to what the new sound is, try to pinpoint where on the vehicle it is coming from or when it occurs, and then contact your repair technician.
As you’re driving your car, you may notice some changes in the way the vehicle moves. Steering can become hard to do, an indication that there’s a lack of power steering fluid or a problem with the system. You may have other times when the steering seems to be shaky, or the steering wheel seems to jump or vibrate. These are all signs that you need to have the engine and steering system inspected by a licensed professional before a failure occurs.
Have you noticed you have to go to the gas station more often? You may not be driving any more than you were before, but your car could be going through more gas as it gets you to and from work or school. A change in fuel economy can indicate a problem with various components of your vehicle. Updates and regular oil changes could actually improve your fuel economy, too, which could mean that your car’s getting more miles for every gallon of fuel you put into it.
Your car’s brakes are one of the most important safety features on it. Any time you notice a change in the brakes, get your vehicle in for repairs. Don’t wait until brake warning lights come on for a brake inspection either. If you notice squealing from the brakes, or it takes longer for the car to stop when you press the brakes, that creates a risk of a brake failure. You may also feel vibrations under the pedals or the brakes may jump. All of these require repairs from an automotive specialist.
It’s not uncommon for people to struggle to find a mechanic they feel safe with on an ongoing basis. There are various reasons for this, including the simple fact that cars are complex. You need someone who knows how to handle all types of vehicle problems as well as someone who can be honest with you about what needs to be done. More so, there are a lot of great companies out there that seem to be expensive. Most drivers want affordability from the mechanic they trust as well. How do you choose who to work with then? Consider these tips.
Look for an ASE-certified mechanic when possible. Any type of certification the company has can be an indication of the good work they can provide. More specifically, be sure the mechanic who is actually working on your vehicle has these certifications (not just the shop itself). That can help to ensure you are working with a highly trained professional who can help you make wise decisions about maintaining your vehicle and prolonging its life.
Another important consideration when hiring a mechanic is how well they are able to help with the specific types of auto repairs you need. Do they specialize in any area? If you need to have a larger project completed, such as replacing the transmission or repairing the engine, you want to know they have the knowledge to do the best possible job. You also want to be sure they are going to use the specific equipment the manufacturer requires to handle those repairs. If not, look for a mechanic that can provide you with these services.
Choose a mechanic that offers some type of guarantee on their workmanship. If someone installs something improperly or there is a secondary problem that develops later, you want to be sure the company is going to make the repairs necessary. At the same time, you also want to be sure they are using high-quality parts and that those parts come with their own warranty. That can give you peace of mind when it comes to having your car repaired. Be sure you know what to do if the problem continues after the repair.
For most vehicle owners, costs are a big deal. You want to be sure you are not overpaying for the service. First, choose a mechanic that is willing to provide you with a free estimate on the work that needs to be done. If the estimate will require a lot of pre-work, expect to pay a fee for this. You also want to be sure that you know if you are being charged a flat rate or an hourly rate. Ask the company what factors play a role in the cost you will have to pay.
Also note that prices are not always negotiable, but most quality mechanics will provide you with options when it is possible. Ask them about ways you can save money when having the repairs done, but don’t expect to haggle the rate significantly. Remember, too, that mechanics have a very specific skill set that’s quite valuable, and you are paying for that expertise when you choose that company.