Breaking Down Auto Parts One By One
I just want to caution you. Please do not go to your dealer for parts. Obviously, you want to go there to get your basic maintenance taken care of and that should be just fine. But for more serious servicing you should stay as far away from your dealer as humanly possible. At least as far as your TDI car parts are concerned. Many dealers actually mark up their prices by as much as 300%, and will let you pay the price without batting an eye.
Without further ado, here are a few names for car parts that might make you think twice if you heard them from your mechanic! Take some time to review them so if your mechanic mentions them during your next maintenance visit, you won't be completely confused, or worse, think he or she is making names of car parts up on the spot!
If what you are hunting has small parts like screws and washers, take a Ziploc baggy with you too. This will make sure you don't lose them somewhere in the junkyard!
Retail stores: Before searching for automotive parts at distant places, it is better to look around the corner to locate a nearest store, which deals in auto parts. Franchisee stores make available the parts on cheaper rates and serve a variety of automobile replacement parts for their customers. These retail stores are usually engaged in selling generic auto accessories such as windshield wipers and oil filters.
If you know enough about cars, you can probably fix a good amount of problems with your car on your own. But if it is a major problem, it is probably good to see a specialist. You may be able to fix smaller problems with your car in your very own garage! If you don't mind getting a little dirty and greasy, then get down on your hands and knees and get to work! You probably already have a bunch of dirty rags in your garage, oil, water, and some basic car fixing tools.
You can try joining auto clubs and ask around with other members who own the same vehicle as you. That way, you can ask them where they get their replacement parts. You can search for such auto clubs using car magazines or you can search through the Internet for them.
Changing the brake pads is the next step. Remember that there are books at your local auto parts remain, on eBay, and at any bookstore that you can also buy. These will give you step by step instructions along with picture illustrations as to how to change and maintain brake pads.
Most of us get all our car repairs done at the local garage, or if you're lucky, you might have a mechanic or car fanatic neighbour who can help you out.
Car dealer - your first stop could be your very own car dealer. He was the one who got you all the information and details when you were making the purchase. He is also well qualified and equipped to provide you information or even the product itself. He may not have it ready right then, but can easily fetch it for you. The downside is the high price which is mostly because of the middlemen involved in the process.
There are often many junk yards in any town that will offer "you pull it" service. This means you can get a better price on 2nd hand car parts if you bring your own tools and remove the part yourself. You will also have a better chance to inspect and decide whether or not the part is in good enough condition for your use.
