Car repairs are inevitable, but they don't always have to drill a hole in your wallet. The American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates the average car repair cost to be around $700 for a single visit to the auto repair shop.
Your car's repair costs can be much more expensive, especially with the rising inflation rate. Fortunately, at Orthodox Auto Company, we've learned a few tricks for saving money on car repairs. We recommend taking these steps to save money when maintaining your car.
13 Ways to Save Money on Car Repairs
Basic Upkeep is Key
Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotation, and annual tune-ups, can help you save money on big, expensive repairs. A properly cared for car will run better, last longer, and have fewer major issues.
Use Reputable Car Repair Shops
Always use an experienced and reputable mechanic when your car is down. Finding the right auto repair shop can be a hassle; however, these tips can make it a breeze.
Ask People You Trust: Ask friends, family, colleagues, or neighbors for their mechanic or auto repair shop recommendations. You're sure to get a ton of useful information.
Read Online Reviews: Filter the recommendations based on the reviews you can see online about each auto repair shop. The reviews can help you build an opinion about each auto mechanic.
Contact Auto Repair Shops: Talk to the auto mechanics you feel the most confident in. This can further solidify your opinion and help you choose the right auto repair shop for your vehicle repair and maintenance needs.
Shop Around for Estimates
When your car is not working, you usually need it fixed immediately. This sense of urgency can push you into paying more for quick service instead of shopping around for better estimates. You can save hundreds of dollars on vehicle maintenance and auto repairs by comparing quotes from two or more mechanics. You'll also likely get more value in terms of warranties on parts or labor when you shop around.
Read About Common Car Problems
You'd be amazed at the wealth of information about your vehicle in the owner's manual. The manual often contains details for preventative maintenance and small vehicle repairs. Asides from this, you can also read online and offline to educate yourself on common car problems you're experiencing and how to fix them. Doing this can help you save hundreds of dollars annually in mechanic consultation.
Some common places to consult when your vehicle is in disrepair include;
Vehicle's Owner's Manual: The owner's manual contains every piece of information you need to know about your vehicle, including how to maintain it and prevent hazards. Read the manual to familiarize yourself with your vehicle's functions, features, and maintenance needs.
Search the Internet for Specific Issues: The internet has a ton of resources from vehicle owners with similar vehicle make and model. Use the internet to your advantage by searching for the specific car issue plus your vehicle's model in the query. You may be lucky to find discussion forums where such issues are thoroughly addressed.
Use YouTube Learning: Sometimes, graphic explanations are much better than reading texts. Leverage free auto repair channels on YouTube and other hosting platforms to troubleshoot vehicle repair problems.
Buy Used Auto Parts
Many people don't realize they can purchase quality used auto car parts at a significantly lower price than new parts. At Orthodox Auto Company, we buy accident cars or old cars at cash value. We remove the remaining quality, usable car parts, make sure they're in good condition, and then sell them to customers like you for a fraction of the cost of a new part.
Don't Ignore Warning Lights
Warning lights on your dashboard indicate an abnormality with your car's function and features. Ignoring them can further damage your car and cost you a lot of money to fix. Has the check engine light come on? Is there an unexplained light on your dashboard? Consult with your vehicle's owner's manual or search for it online.
Attempt Minor DIYs
Certain vehicle problems can be fixed DIY without visiting the mechanic. DIY-ing small car repair problems can save you a lot of money and overall improve your car repair knowledge.
Below are 10 car repairs you can DIY to save money;
Vehicle jumpstarting
Wiper blade replacement
Air filter replacement
Car battery change
Head or tail light replacement
Removing paint scratches
Changing or topping up the oil
Changing spark plugs
Changing flat tires
Brake pad replacement
You've probably heard the saying that your new vehicle loses a significant percentage of its value the minute you drive off the lot. It loses another 15 – 20% of its value every year. Sooner or later, it'll need some repairs. At Orthodox Auto Company of Philadelphia, we know the value of each dollar.
Want to find out more about our used auto parts or our easy 4-step process for selling your junk car? Contact Orthodox Auto Company today at (215) 608-3270, or you can stop by our Philadelphia location anytime to talk to our staff.