Most auto mechanics are honest and trustworthy when giving proper maintenance and repair advice. Some dishonest mechanics take advantage of car owners to earn a profit by recommending unnecessary auto repairs. The repairs that mechanics often recommend line their pockets at the expense of trusting consumers
1. Change your tire when you get a flat
If you run over a nail on the road, some auto repair shops will tell you it’s necessary to discard your old tire and buy a new one. It is false – if a common nail or screw pierces the tread of your tire, it’s almost always repairable. The tire can be removed, patched from the inside, and mounted back on your vehicle – good as new.
2. Always replace tires in pairs
If you need to replace one tire for some reason, some repair shops say you must replace the one on the other side. It is true if your other tire is going bald, but replacing a tire in good shape is generally unnecessary. If one tire is new and the other tire has 75% tread, you’re better off saving money and keeping the 75% tire on it.
3. Replace your coolant when you change your oil
Coolant does not get dirty and contaminated nearly as quickly as oil does, and it’s unnecessary to change coolant very often. Coolant is usually only replaced if there is a leak in a car’s cooling system. Otherwise, it can last for 5 years or more.
4. Replace your motor oil every 3,000 miles
The tradition of replacing oil every 3,000 miles fails to consider the improvements in modern engines and lubricants. Technological advancements have made the 3,000-mile oil change obsolete, yet many car owners discard perfect motor oil. If your car uses synthetic oil, you can drive up to 15,000 miles between changes. No matter what type of vehicle you own, do your research before going in for your following oil change.
5. Install a name-brand battery for better performance
When your battery comes up for replacement, some mechanics always insist on a high-priced dealer or name-brand battery. In reality, many off-brand batteries are made by the same manufacturers as name-brand batteries, and many marketing dollars are behind them. Before you agree to a costly replacement, research alternatives that can save you money.
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