Affordable Auto Repair

You take it for granted that your car will start when you turn the key. But, Beth Epstein knows better. When her car wouldn't start recently, she had to find a mechanic. She learned from the experience -- and says it's key to find a mechanic you can trust. We have some suggestions on how to do just that.

Wanted: A Good Mechanic

Referrals
Ask friends or neighbors for suggestions on good mechanics. Chances are they've gone to a mechanic in the past, and they can tell you whether it was a good experience and if they'll ever go back.

Check around
Call the Better Business Bureau or another consumer agency to see if there are any complaints against the mechanic you are considering using.

Start small
Stephen Brobeck with the Consumer Federation of America says it's smart to start small when it comes to car repairs. He says, "Don't go to them initially with a rebuilding your engine job. Go there asking him to do a tune up and see how they do first."

Watch for surprises
Set a dollar amount for work you're willing to have done. If it's any more than that, have the mechanic call you to approve repairs.

How can you protect yourself against disreputable car repair shops? Here are some tips from the Better Business Bureau.

>>If you don't know much about automobiles, be quiet about your lack of knowledge.

>>Don't leave your valuables in the car while it's being worked on.

>>Don't get taken by common scams. Dishonest mechanics can make the car appear to have more problems than it really does. For example, simply switching the spark plug connections can make a car have trouble starting.

>>Check out the mechanic with the Better Business Bureau and find out if there have been any complaints.

And remember, you don't always have to take your car to a mechanic when problems creep up on you. Pat Goss of Motorweek says you can save money by doing certain projects right at home. All you need is a little know-how.

Repair Rules

Bulbs

Replacing the bulbs in your headlights is no big deal. Simply turn them counter clockwise to remove. Then, turn clockwise when inserting the new ones. But there's a secret to saving money here, if you touch the bulb make sure to wipe it with an alcohol swab. Otherwise the life of the bulb will only be a matter of minutes, says Goss.

Tire Pressure

Taking your tire pressure is easier than you may think. Just check the sticker inside your car door for the amount of pressure the tire should have. Then, take the valve cap off and use a good quality tire gauge. However, make sure you don't take the reading after you've been driving around for a while. The tires must be cold.

Windshield Wipers

Replacing windshield wipers is just as easy a task. Goss says they typically slide right out. Then, when you put the new ones on, make sure they click into place.

Fluids

It's also a good idea to keep an eye on your car's various liquids like: coolant, oil, and brake and power steering fluids. With some, you can see the level though the clear plastic. If not, it's simply a matter of removing the cap and looking at the dipstick.

Don't Get Taken

Goss says most other repairs require special tools, where it generally does not pay to do it yourself. For this maintenance, you're better off heading to a good mechanic.

Read more smart consumer tips and strategies
from Fox11 Eyewitness News Online

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