How to save money on car repairs-Get a check-up before you travel

Part VII- Get a check-up before you travel.

Have your mechanic inspect your vehicle in advance of a trip. After all, you don't want your car to break down in an unfamiliar place and be towed to a mechanic you don't know if you can trust.

Anytime you end up in a shop you haven't researched-or in an emergency situation when you can't compare repair prices-you risk spending more than necessary and getting shoddy service
 For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456

How to save money on car repars-Baby Your Car

Part VI- Baby your car.

Have your vehicle thoroughly washed and detailed every few months. It may sound silly, but car owners tend to drive more gently and get repairs faster if their ride looks nice.

 A good-looking car also discourages fellow drivers from casually dinging your door in the parking lot. Likewise, be picky about where you park-even if you have to walk a bit farther to your destination-so you avoid careless drivers and scratchy bushes that may send you to the body shop.

 For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456

How to save money on car repairs-Pay attention to warnings your car gives you.

Part V: Pay attention to warnings your car gives you.

They're your vehicle's way of telling you it needs some TLC. Ignoring those signals puts you at risk for doing major, expensive damage.

So if your check-engine light comes on, get it evaluated at a reputable shop within a few days. I

f that light flashes, don't drive at all-get your car towed instead. If your oil light comes on, immediately call for a tow.

Hearing an odd sound? Take the car in. If it's a simple fix, you'll get it taken care of before it morphs into a more expensive repair.


For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456

How to save money on car repairs-Do your homework and ask educated questions.

Part IV- Do your homework and ask educated questions.

Prepare your questions. The shop's staff will respect you for being a good researcher and consumer.

A reputable shop should be willing to explain in lay language-and even show you-what's going on with your car.

If the owner or mechanic is annoyed by your questions or talks over your head, he or she may be trying to intimidate you, sell you unnecessary services or overcharge you. Find a new shop, pronto.
 For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456

How to save money on car repairs-Stick with Independent shops

Part III: Stick with independent shops.

While these smaller outfits charge close to the same as dealers for parts and labor, you'll save because they won't sell you unnecessary repairs and services.

Since dealer service managers often work on commission, it benefits them to sell you as many services as possible-whether or not you need them.

For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456

How to save money on car repairs-Find a Reputable Shop and be Loyal

Part II:  Find a Reputable Shop

Never pick a repair shop out of the phone book or based on an ad.

Ask for recommendations from friends, family or coworkers. And once you find a good shop, stay with it.

"Shops tend to offer regular customers special money-saving coupons and breaks on repair costs because they know you'll return.

 For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456

How to save money on car repairs-Maintain and Prevent

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 Part I: Maintain and Prevent

The number-one way to pay less on car repairs is to avoid them in the first place. Keep your ride in prime shape by following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

Major & minor services are usually suggested every 15,000 to 30,000 miles & you'll find it in your car owner's manual (lost yours? find it on Edmunds.com).

For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456.