Car Care Advice to Save Money on Car Repair Tools

Many of us consider our car to be one of our most important investments. Having a vehicle means freedom, convenience, and are a way to get around at will. You must have worked hard to put enough money away for a down payment. Each month you have to keep covering the costs of insurance and your car payment. However, when your car needs auto care, the extra expenditure can throw your budget off. That’s why these tricks for getting low-cost auto parts and auto body repair tools can make a big difference in your month-end finances.Spending Less on Regular Repairs and Engine Repair ToolsIf you have a maintenance issue, such as an oil change, brake pad replacement, or burned-out light, why not save money and do it yourself? There are many "how-to" online tutorials and printed books that can show you step-by-step. The bonus is that you’ll only be spending money on the parts and supplies.. At the repair facility, you’re paying more for everything because they have specialized auto repair tools, plus, it can cost $65 or more per hour to have their employees do the work. If you aren’t comfortable with doing any of these tasks yourself, ask your family or friends if they can help you out or if they know someone who can help at a low rate. Many friends and family are glad to help out and can be paid for their time with a six-pack or a pizza lunch; training schools offer ultra-low-cost repairs that really save you money.Car Care Costs: Automotive Parts and Services for LessSome other minor repairs necessitate special tools or expertise, but still can be done by you. Take, for example, diagnosing an engine code, getting your rotors resurfaced, changing out your spark plugs, or rotating your tires. Local discount auto parts stores often times provide services for a nominal cost that would otherwise cost you hundreds of dollars or more if you took it to an auto repair shop. Diagnosing engine codes can be especially frustrating. In some states, auto parts suppliers have the tools to help diagnose problems on the spot. Nevertheless, in some states they don’t allow this, but the diagnostic tool is only a nominal cost at around $200. It can cost $90 or so to have your dealer run a diagnostic test on your car’s computer. However, you can add this useful piece to your home auto repair tools and it will pay for itself with only 2 uses! Basic Maintenance and Car Care Don’t Have to Break the BankResurfacing rotors can be tricky because they have to have enough “meat” on them before they can be resurfaced. A minimum millimeter of metal is required to remain at a safe depth. Don’t worry, however, because the resurfacing shops will tell you on the spot if they meet the thickness requirements. Moreover, they will either resurface them for you or can help you purchase new rotors. In an equally easy manner, spark plugs are available for purchase at the car care and supply store and the necessary gap is stated clearly on the package. If you need a gapping tool, they are available for under $5. A jack and some muscle are all you need to easily rotate any of your tires.It is possible for you to save major cash by doing the minor repairs on your automobile or truck. You can make your car last longer while making your dollars go even farther, and use the left over cash to spend more time having fun with family and friends!