Article created for Walletpop.com

1. What's the first thing you should do when your car breaks down? Are there any general tips students can use to diagnose problems themselves so they know what they're in for.
 
Answer: The first thing to do when your car breaks down is to isolate the system that is causing the malfunction. Though there are simple and difficult scenarios in all aspects of car repair, inspection is a good way to narrow down the malfunctioning system. Here is a basic check for a popular malfunction:
 
Problem: Check engine light has come on while driving
Answer: Scan the PCM (powertrain control module) for trouble codes to identify the system that has malfunctioned. Replace the shorted sensor or repair the system as needed and clear the trouble codes to recheck the system.
 
 
2. How can a student find a good mechanic and avoid getting ripped off? What should make them suspicious that they might be paying too much? What questions should they ask before, during and after a repair appointment?
 
Answer: By Law the repair estimate cannot cost more than 5% of the original estimate not including tax. All cost overruns must be approved by the customer before the repair can proceed. Be informed on how a car works is the only way to know for sure if what they are telling you is the truth. The internet is one of the best tools to achieve this, websites such as 2carpros.com can help you understand the repair in question. Always ask for all parts involved and also have them explain why the particular part has failed. Always inform the repair shop that you would like to have the parts returned to you at the time the work order is placed. Also ask for the old part(s) in the box of the new part that was installed on your vehicle. This will help you determine the quality level of the replacement part. Ask them to explain in detail why the part has failed. Some parts cannot be returned such as gaskets that need to be scrapped off to be replaced, you would just get back a handful of gasket shavings with no evidence of failure. In this case a personal inspection is required before the work has begun.
 
3. How might a student who doesn't know much about cars go about learning basic D-I-Y repairs? What are the most affordable and least time-consuming ways to get more educated about how your car works and how you can fix it? Which repairs should you not try and do yourself?
 
Answer: The internet is one of the best ways to be informed on how a car works and what to look for when a particular malfunction has occurred. Most air conditioner, transmission, suspension and engine repair should not done by a novice DIY'er
 
 
4. What do you recommend for the most cost-effective course of preventive automobile maintenance? How can students take better care of their cars without spending too much money? Which products and treatments will save money in the long run, and which ones is a waste?
 
Answer: All service intervals must be followed per the manufactures recommendations to ensure vehicle longevity. To save money on service a DIY'er can perform them personally to save money. Always use high quality filters and lubricants and dispose of waste oil and filter properly.
 
5. Many students I know drive older or high-mileage cars. What's the best way to take care of these vehicles and avoid repairs? And at what point are they not worth fixing anymore? When things just keep going wrong with your car, how do you know when to draw the line and walk away from it? 
 
Answer:  When servicing your car prevention is your best weapon against repair costs. Today’s’ automobiles are subject to higher temperatures and harder driving conditions than ever before. Clean fluids such as engine oil and coolant help the engine run efficiently for many miles down the road. Servicing other components such as the transmission, air conditioner and differential will help your car live a long and happy life. It is also beneficial to find a repair shop you can trust, you can do this by contacting the better business bureau in your area and inquire about any complaints the shop might have filled against them. It is hard to tell when a car has simply had enough; there is no crystal ball that will tell you what will break down next. It is always a judgment call on the car owner.