Prevent budget-busting car repairs

A visit to a repair shop can be more painful and costly than a root canal. But there are easy ways to avoid a visit to the repair shop and some simple steps to follow if your car does end up needing service. The best thing is that neither requires daily flossing.

Avoiding Repairs

The best way to avoid the pain of car repairs is to prevent the need for them. Here are a few easy and inexpensive ways to significantly reduce potential problems:

•Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. The optimum maintenance schedule for your car is the one recommended by the manufacturer. Additionally, failing to follow manufacturers’ maintenance schedules may void your warranty. So it’s critical that you change fluids, filters and items such as spark plugs at the frequency recommended by the manufacturer.

•Upgrade your motor oil. If you needed a blood transfusion, would you ask for the best blood or the cheapest? Motor oil is the lifeblood of your car, and the same mindset should apply. Upgrading to high performance synthetic oil can help prevent potential problems and improve the performance of your vehicle.

•Keep your tires properly inflated. Tires that are under-inflated or over-inflated may wear out prematurely or potentially blow out and cause an accident. Ideally, tire pressure should be checked every time you fill up your gas tank. By keeping your tires properly inflated, you’ll also help reduce fuel consumption. The U.S. Energy Department reports that under-inflated tires can actually increase fuel consumption by up to six percent.

If Repairs are Needed

Despite the best maintenance practices, problems may still occur with your car. Follow these simple steps to minimize their impact:

•Check your owner’s manual. Unusual noises may be perfectly normal and/or easy to fix. Your owner’s manual can help you to determine whether a trip to the repair shop is really necessary and whether or not repairs must be preformed by a certified technician to comply with any warranty you may have.

•Find a reputable repair shop. Ask family, friends and coworkers for recommendations. You should also check with your local Better Business Bureau to verify the shop’s reliability. Look for a shop whose mechanics are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. ASE-certified mechanics have passed rigorous industry tests and receive ongoing up-to-date training.

•Get a written estimate and a second opinion. Always ask for a written estimate of the repair costs. In some areas, state law requires that a written estimate be given. A reputable shop will guarantee that costs will not exceed the estimate by more than 10 percent and ensure that costs greater than the estimate are approved by you prior to work.

Rule of thumb: If you car is drivable, always get a second opinion from another repair shop.

The pain of car repairs can be excruciating and costly. Avoiding the pain altogether is always preferred. Like good dental hygiene, it just requires a little effort.