I don’t know about you, but although my car is my best friend, I must confess I know little about it. I know where it hangs out, that it always looks good and that it never fails me; I can tell a steering wheel from a tyre, yet if it starts to cough or to choke and I need to take a peek under the hood, I have to admit I’m a bit lost. I can’t seem to become my best friend’s super-hero, so how am I supposed to rescue it if it gets into trouble?
Simple answer: by avoiding trouble!
Apart from regular maintenance and the mandatory inspections, the first thing you need to look out for are the panel lights: if they’re off, hit the road; if one (or more) is on, hit the brakes: your car is trying to reach out to you. Grab the manual that you should keep inside the glove compartment (if you’re old school) or simply grab your smartphone and browse the symptom. At this point, you’ll be fully aware of the benefits of communication in a relationship.
Now, while some lights have just one meaning, others might have more than one significance (pretty much like words). In any case, you will be able to tell, on the spot, if you need to call for someone or if you are still able to drive to the nearest help.
It gets a bit trickier when you don’t see any panel lights on, but start hearing sounds that are not supposed to be there.
That is often when you get the distinct feeling your mechanic will have himself a nice day because he’s the one who usually works the magic. However, after some research, I found out it’s not that hard to figure out which piece goes where (it’s not rocket science!), and the replacement process is often a miracle you can perform by yourself.
Be advised, local sellers are aware of this, so you need to check the price on the car parts, otherwise you might get somewhat scammed. Make sure to compare prices, check with the car manufacturer to get a reference, if needed. Talk to the sellers to show you’re not completely clueless, so you won’t be taken advantage of.
If you need professional advice, know there is always one or two swell partners you can count on, such as tirendo and oleo-do-motor.pt.
Last but the least, if you’re best friend is so special that it requires special parts, make sure to the matter in your own hands. Prepare to go out on a field trip and explore the junkyards. This last resort may save you money, but it won’t save you time.
The best way your car won’t fail you is for you to get it right!
