Issue Date: July 19, 2009
MoneySmart |
WALECIA KONRAD |
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Three ways to save on auto repairs
If you're like many people, you're hanging onto your old car longer -- and that can mean more repairs.--
Choose your repair shop carefully. Ask friends and family where they get good service and a fair deal. Check assuredperformancecare.com for independent shops that meet certain quality standards. Have a foreign car? Be sure the shop is certified to do repairs on your make/model.
Keep up with routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tuneups, to avoid big, expensive repairs down the road. "Every dollar you cut back on now will cost you an average of $8 down the line," estimates Pat Goss, who hosts "MotorWeek" TV and radio shows. Check your newspaper for coupons from dealer service shops and chains such as Jiffy Lube.
Learn to do some work yourself. Community centers and adult education programs often offer basic auto repair classes. About.com has excellent step-by-step instructions, and Edmunds.com has a few instructional videos.
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