Use our free search to find local car repair services. We have 35 categories to help you with your search. We offer searches to locate general car repair shops and towing companies, including wrecker recovery, flatbed towing and medium and heavy duty towing and recovery. We have tire shops for new, used and retread tires, brake repair shops for servicing one of the most important parts of your vehicle, and collision repair shops to restore your vehicle to its original condition after a collision. These are just a few of the services you can find with just a few clicks of your mouse.

Auto repair shops, please check out our contact and advertise pages to find out how to place an ad to help boost your auto repair business. Computers and smart phones have made the phone book a thing of the past because it is much faster and easier to look it up on the internet. Our sites are designed to make it fast and easy to find almost anything for your automobile and home needs. Click here for any home repair services you might need.

Accessories:

Accessories are important to most of us.  We all like to add that personal touch to our vehicles, even though they operate well with or without accessories.  Accessories may possibly void your factory warranty so it is important that you check with the manufacturer before adding an accessory.  Accessories may cause damage to components on your vehicle, and you should take caution when adding something that will make such a dramatic change to your vehicle.  Proper installation is a key factor in determining whether or not the accessory will damage your vehicle.  Without proper knowledge of the accessory and the proper tools for installation, your accessory could cause more headaches than you intended when you purchased the accessory.  Our free search can assist you in finding a professional to perform installation of your desired accessory with just one click of your mouse.

Tires and wheels are the most commonly changed accessory on a vehicle.  Tires and wheels should be sized properly and should not be so big as to rub the vehicle’s body parts.  Tires that are too big or rub on the vehicle’s body parts can damage new tires, front-end steering components, and/or other body parts.  Your speedometer can be affected when you change the tires and wheels on your vehicle.  It can read too fast or too slow.  Each vehicle is manufactured to maximize the mileage and any addition of aftermarket accessories, such as bumpers, body kits, tires, engine performance parts, lift kits and almost any exterior accessory, can have an affect on the fuel mileage of your vehicle.  As with any change, the decision will need to be made whether the accessory is important enough to affect your warranty and/or your vehicle’s mileage.  You decide what is more important to you and your needs.

As with anything aftermarket, it is best to have accessories installed by a professional who has the knowledge and proper tools for correct installation.  You must be confident that the accessory fits properly and is installed correctly to avoid any future problems with the accessory.  If you are installing the accessory yourself, be sure that you have the proper tools to install the accessory correctly, and ask questions when purchasing the accessory so you know enough about it to know what to expect when installing it.

Auctions:

Auctions are held all over large cities.  They are a great source for purchasing a motorcycle, boat, car, truck, or auto parts.  Sometimes the tricky part is finding an auction, which we would like to make easier for you on our site.  Click on your city and state to find auctions near you.  Most of our providers will have a link to their website, which will provide you with further information about each auction, including what’s being sold, where the auction will be held and where it will be located. 

Once you arrive at the auction, you will be able to register with the auctioneer as a buyer.  They will ask for some identifying information as well as a security deposit.  The deposit helps the auctioneer feel confident that you are a serious buyer and will not be bidding on something you don’t really want.  It also encourages you, the buyer, to pay close attention to the bidding so that you aren’t bidding on something you can’t afford or don’t really want.  Once your bid has been accepted, it is your vehicle no matter what.  If you choose not to pay, your deposit will not be returned and you may not be welcomed back to the auction.

Auctions move at a quick pace and can get very confusing.  It is easy to lose track of which vehicle is actually being auctioned, so it is important that you know what you are bidding on.  Arrive in time to give yourself the ability to preview the vehicles before the auction starts.  You want to be able to look the vehicle over real well and identify which vehicle or vehicles you wish to purchase.  Print out the checklist below, found in our Auto Sales category, to help locate any possible problems with the vehicle.  Our checklist provides many items that most people simply forget to check out when looking to purchase a vehicle.

Most auctioneers will start and move the vehicles.  This gives you an opportunity to find out if the vehicle starts easy, will pull forward and reverse, and if the vehicle smokes or makes any unordinary noises.  Once the car is parked for the auction to begin, check the tires.  You want to check to see if the tires are wearing unevenly, as this can be a sign of possible alignment problems or worn out front-end components.

When you have made your purchase and the bidding is over, make sure that you receive all the paperwork you will need to get the vehicle titled in your name.  Verify that the paperwork shows the correct VIN number, year, make and model of the vehicle, and that everything is an exact match to the vehicle.

Most auctioneers expect purchased vehicles to be moved once they are purchased.  However, some will offer a reasonable time limit to remove the vehicle.  You will most likely be charged for storage if you exceed the given time limits.  These are just a few things to keep in mind when buying a vehicle at an auction.  Auction cars are not going to be perfect, but it is your money, so you should feel comfortable about the money you spend and what you get in return.

Auto Sales:

When purchasing a vehicle, new or used, it is important to be knowledgeable about every aspect of the process.  You can do this by researching the vehicle you are interested in purchasing.  The first thing you must do is decide what type of vehicle you want and how that vehicle will fit your needs.  Although most of want the biggest and the baddest vehicle out there, that is usually not practical for what we really need.  Narrow your choice of vehicle by the year, the make, the model and even the color you prefer. 

Do your best to limit your search to dealers and individuals close to your work or home.  Most of us don’t realize it, but the time and effort spent driving all over town or to other cities looking for the vehicle we intend to purchase actually increases the total cost of the vehicle. 

If you have located a vehicle you wish to purchase, print our two-page checklist below to identify the overall condition of the vehicle.  We suggest putting a Ö in the boxes that are okay and an X in the boxes where there are problems.  We have also provided a notes section for you to jot down a description of the items about which you place an X in a box.  This checklist is helpful with new cars as well because you can’t just assume that a new vehicle will be without damage or will work properly.

Exterior Vehicle Condition:

Interior Vehicle Condition

 
These are just some of the things to look for when purchasing a vehicle.  This will help you identify possible problems, get advice on repair costs of those items, and help you make an informed decision about the vehicle prior to making the purchase. 

Brake Repair: 

The most important repair you can perform on your vehicle just may be the brakes.  Improperly working brakes can cause serious problems with your vehicle and possibly your wallet.  If you choose to work on your brakes yourself, be prepared with the proper tools, parts and knowledge to perform the work correctly.  Never allow someone who is not qualified to perform the brake repair on your vehicle.

Brake pads and brake shoes are repaired more than any other brake part.  They are designed to wear out over time, but it is best to replace brake pads and brake shoes before they are worn out completely.  Changing them will keep the cost of brake repairs down and save you from unfortunate problems in the long run.  Brake pads have a piece of metal on them, and when they are reaching the end of their life, the brake pads will begin to make a scraping sound that can’t be missed.  This sound indicates that you must repair the brakes immediately.  Have your brakes inspected regularly to avoid waiting until the metal is scraping.  Replacement of worn brake pads and brake shoes if fairly inexpensive if done before they are worn out completely, but waiting too long could cost you quite a bit more money because the wait could result in damage to other brake parts or components such as the rotors, calibers, brake cylinders, etc.  This will be a mistake you only make once because it will likely be very expensive.

Car Shows:

Classic cars, new cars, low riders, trucks, big rigs, etc. can all be found at Car Shows, sometimes called Swap Meets or Rallies, too. These shows are where the information and new ideas run abundant and the fun never ends.  The activities are endless, too.  You can see beautiful women, beautiful cars and trucks, and enter any one of them in a beauty contest fit for each category.  You can buy, sell or trade parts for your car or truck, or just wander around and enjoy the sights around you.  You can mix and mingle with vendors, customers, and everyone in between, learning about all the new things yet to come and getting new ideas for your own pride and joy.  At any given time or place, these shows can guarantee great fun, great food, beautiful women, beautiful cars and trucks, and so much more.  Click on your city and state to find cars shows coming to your area soon.  Grab a friend or bring the whole family so no one will be left out of the fun of a car show.

Collision Repair:

A collision is the most dreaded thing that could happen to our vehicles.  It is a stressful situation for all parties involved, but our site hopes to help ease some of the stress and take care of your collision needs.  If you have had a collision, there are several things you need to take care of and decisions to be made.  Of course, the first thing you should do is make sure that you, your passengers and your occupants are okay, and the police have taken their report.  Once the police give permission, you will need to remove the vehicle from the wreck.  If it is too damaged to drive, you will need to find a towing company to remove your vehicle and transport it to a collision repair center.  So, the next decision to be made is which towing company to use.  See our Towing and Recovery category to find towing companies near you. 

Once the vehicle has been removed from the wreck, you will need to obtain a rental car to drive while your vehicle is in the collision repair shop.  We hope that our rental/leasing section can help you find a rental car company that will fit your automotive needs.

The collision repair shop should be a place in which you are comfortable leaving your vehicle for repairs.  Find out if they are going to complete all of the work on site, or if they will be outsourcing the repairs.  Find out where your vehicle will be at all times, especially if the work is being outsourced.  Ask enough questions to be an informed consumer.  You need to get an idea about parts they will use to repair your vehicle; you need to know if they will be genuine or aftermarket parts, new parts, used parts or rebuilt parts.  Get information about the warranties, policies and limitations for all parts used on your vehicle, as well as labor to repair or install them.  Ask the collision repair shop what they will do should you take delivery of your vehicle and find something wrong with parts or items they have repaired.  You do not want to be “stuck” with problems or issues that you may not have seen upon delivery, just because you accepted delivery and have left the premises of the collision repair shop.  If time allows, make sure you get estimates from more than one collision repair shop and confirm that you are comparing apples to apples and oranges to oranges.

When you arrive at the collision repair shop to pick up your repaired vehicle, bring the printable checklist offered under our Auto Sales category.  Inspect your vehicle as if you were buying it for the first time.  Our checklist will help you remember some of the most important things about the vehicle before you take delivery or make payment.  If you find something wrong, refuse delivery of the vehicle until that item is repaired.  Pay attention to detail and check everything thoroughly.

Customizing:

Customizing your vehicle is similar to adding accessories, but with greater detail to individualizing your vehicle to match your personality.  The right custom shop is important when you desire that one of a kind car or truck.  Most of the shops that offer vehicle customizing employ specialists with the ability and skill needed to design an original look for your vehicle.  Be clear about what you want out of the customization of your vehicle.  If you do not stay involved in the project, and only give a general idea about what you want, don’t get upset with the customizing specialists if they don’t design what you had pictured in your mind.  Give the specialist an idea about what you want, let them help you to create that custom look, and stay involved throughout the project.  Make any adjustments you want prior to the project getting started.  Although changes can be made mid-job, it can be expensive if they have to start all over. 

Detailing:

An extensive cleaning of your vehicle may require a detail company, although most of us detail or own car or truck on a regular basis.  A detail service can usually be found at a full service car wash, but there are also mobile detail companies available in most cities.  When using a detail company, be clear about what you want them to do to your vehicle.  You will want to be specific so the detail specialist can give you a reasonable estimate of the cost of detailing your vehicle.  The cost of a detail job can vary depending on what you specifically need done, the extent of the work to be done and how dirty your vehicle is.  When setting up a detail transaction, it is most important to have strong communication of expectations.

Financing:

Financing an automobile can be an overwhelming process.  There are so many things to consider before accepting a financial agreement and signing on the dotted line.  Financing is also one of the most important decisions you can make, whether you are financing a new car or a used car.  You must remember that financing a car does not only consist of receiving credit approval, but you must consider the interest rate, down payment, and term of repayment.  All of these things have an impact on the total cost of the vehicle you are purchasing.  Be careful not to be enticed by lower payments for longer terms, because the longer the life of the loan, the more interest you will pay and the more your vehicle actually costs.  When looking at financing, don’t just settle on the dealers’ creditors.  Shop around for the best interest rate and terms.  Some lenders will compete for your business and will attempt to offer you something better if at all possible.  Be careful that your credit is not run too many times as too many inquiries may have an adverse affect on your overall credit score.  Make sure you understand everything you are agreeing to before you sign the finance documents.  If you don’t understand something, require them to explain it to you or refuse to sign the papers.  The purchase of a vehicle, next to the purchase of a home, is the greatest investment most people will make.  It is important that care and caution are taken when arranging financing, and that you do not allow the salesman or finance companies to bully you into something that will only cause financial or emotional strain in the end.

General auto repair:

General auto repair services can be found at most auto repair shops.  They can handle just about any repair need you may have.  It is recommended that you make sure the auto repair shop provides you with a written estimate regarding the work the repair shop agrees to perform, a list of the parts they anticipate needing and the price of the parts, the repair shop’s hourly rate, how long they expect to have your vehicle, and all warranties and warranty limitations the auto repair shop will offer on parts and labor.  Communication is the key, so it is important that you know what you expect from the repair shop, what they expect from you, how long it will take and how much it will cost.

Glass repair:

Because glass protects us from road debris and weather, glass repair is an important part of maintaining our vehicles; therefore, a cracked windshield, or any other window, should not go unattended.  This repair should only be done by a professional, as there are special tools and knowledge required to perform a repair like this correctly.  Technology today even allows a professional to repair small chips without replacing the glass itself.  Of course, this is another reason for repairing glass before it becomes a repair too large for chip repair. 

Inspection stations:

State inspections are required by law, and luckily, are fairly easy to obtain.  There are many locations to have this service performed.  You can find state inspection stations or you can have your general auto repair shop perform the state inspection.  Oil and lube service providers usually offer this service, too.  Make sure you have your inspection done before the end of the month posted on your sticker.  There is no grace period, and the ticket for an expired state inspection can be very expensive. 

Insurance:

Insurance is another thing required by law.  It is a mistake that should not be made.  An uninsured automobile is not worth the risk of consequence to you and others on the road with you.  The fines are usually expensive and can cause financial distress if you are involved in a collision while driving an uninsured automobile. 

Each state requires different liability limits, so it is important to find a good insurance agent/company.  Coverage should at least include the state’s minimums as well as the right amount of coverage for your individual needs and situation.  Insurance policies can have several different coverage specifications, such as uninsured motorist, towing, rental allowance, medical coverage for you and your passengers, and the list goes on.  Make sure your insurance agent is able to explain the coverage you have chosen and that you have compared companies with policies that have the exact same coverage.

Job listings:

Employers in the auto industry may post job openings on our site to find employees in your area.  Provide us with the specifics, we will post, and watch the applications fly in.  This is a free service to our site’s vendors in need of employees.  If you are the one in need of employment, check out the site’s job listing section by entering your city and state into the search.

Leasing/Rentals:

Our leasing/rental category is offered to you to assist you in locating a local car or truck rental facility, whether your needs are for a long-term lease or a short-term rental.  Some reasons for wanting or needing to rent or lease an automobile include an unfortunate accident, vacation needs, or just simple auto repair on your personal automobile.  Long-term rental needs would be better served by leasing, however, short-term rental needs would be best served by a rental.  Our site can help you find a leasing/rental facility in your area to fit your personal situation.  Just click on your city and state, then click the leasing/rental category, and help is just one more click away.

Locksmiths:

Locksmiths are professionals in key making, lock picking and gaining entry into your vehicle when keys are not accessible.  You can call on a locksmith when you need keys made, you have lost your keys and need new ones, or you have locked your keys into your car and have no way to get to a spare.  Although most locksmiths have a physical location, they usually operate a mobile service, which is convenient for those mishaps on the road.  A locksmith is an individual trained with special talents and in using special tools, so this is not a do-it-yourself situation.  To find a locksmith near you, click on your city and state, the locksmith category, and you are one final click away from meeting your locksmith needs. 

Machine shop:

Our site can help you find a machine shop to take your car or truck engine parts.  Mechanic shops and serious do-it-yourself guys are going to love this category.  Typically, a machine shop would render service on engine blocks or engine heads.  The professionals in a machine shop have the right tools and knowledge to clean and rebuild these very important engine parts.  Before you leave your engine parts at a machine shop, know what you will get for the money you will pay.  There are many different things that a machine shop can do to the same engine block or engine heads.  Do your research and know what you want done before taking your engine parts to the machine shop.  If you are not sure what you want, make a list of things to discuss with the machine shop ahead of time.  This awareness will be helpful to the machine shop and help them to get your parts in a shorter amount of time. 

Mobile Car Repair:

Mobile car repair is a convenient service offered by some mechanic shops, performing minor repairs, such as tune-ups, oil changes, alternators, starters, etc.  Mobile car repair is usually a little bit more expensive then taking your car to a general auto repair shop, but is usually worthwhile when compared to the convenience the mobile car repair offers in today’s very busy world.  Most services can be performed while you are at work without leaving you without an automobile throughout the day.  When scheduling a mobile car repair service, it is important to make sure that you verify that repairs you need performed will not violate local or city ordinances.  Verify that the provider will be able to give you a written record detailing the work that has been done as well as warranties for parts and labor.  To find mobile car repair providers, click on your city and state, and then click on the mobile car repair category.

Muffler:

Muffler repair is not a do-it-yourself project for individuals inexperienced in car repair.  Muffler repair requires many different talents and ranges of experience, as well as the use of specialized tools, such as welders, pipe benders and car lifts.  It must be done properly, as this particular part of your vehicle is key to the passing of state inspections, and it plays an important role in the sound of your vehicle.  Old or improperly installed exhaust parts can drastically alter your vehicle’s performance and sound.  Keep in mind that when the catalytic converter is clogged up; it can be misdiagnosed as a fuel pump or fuel injector issue.  If your car is losing power or acting like it is running out of fuel, the culprit is most likely the catalytic converter. An issue with the catalytic converter can easily be identified or diagnosed by a professional with the proper knowledge of the exhaust system.

Oil and Lubrication Services:

Regularly scheduled oil changes and lubrication of moving parts is the best beginning of proper maintenance of your vehicle.  Your manufacturer’s guidelines will help you determine how often to perform these services, as different models and circumstances require different intervals for optimum performance and maintenance.  Keep all maintenance on your vehicle recorded and in a convenient location so you can easily access the records should the need arise.  Many providers offer services limited to oil and lube services, which provides a convenient, timely manner in which the service can be performed.  Almost all general auto repair shops offer these services, too.

Parts & Supplies (New):

Our site can help you locate the many different providers of auto parts and supplies, from your local auto parts stores and dealers, to online providers.  Before you inquire about parts for your vehicle, it is important to know the year, make, model and engine size of your vehicle.  If you are looking for auto parts and supplies from the dealer, have your VIN # available so that they may look up the parts specific to your vehicle.  Remove the old part and take it with you, if possible, so you can compare the new and old parts and make sure you have the correct part you need; it will also help you to avoid paying a core charge.  A core charge is usually charged if you don’t have the old part. Be sure you fully understand the provider’s policy on returning or exchanging parts, especially when purchasing electronic parts. 

Parts & Supplies (Used):

Used auto parts and supplies can save you a great amount of money, but you must take caution when purchasing used auto parts and supplies, so you do not throw your money away.  Let our sight help you find a salvage yard in your area, which is the easiest and fastest place to find used auto parts, and in most cases, will provide a warranty.  The warranty may cost extra, but will be well worth it if you need to replace an engine or transmission.  Our sight can also help you if you are looking for used parts for an older vehicle, as a swap meet would be the perfect place to find used or even rare auto parts. 

Restoration:

A professional restoration provider can do classic car restoration.  Though many of us would love to take on the project of restoring a classic car, professional car restoration providers can perform miracles.  Do not take a provider strictly at their word; get references and ask to see their previous work.  You can tell a lot about a restoration specialist by work they have done in the past.  Don’t just hand over the keys to your pride and joy without something in writing that details the services to be performed, the cost of the services, warranty for the work, and how long the work will take.  Restoration can be expensive, so be prepared for the time and money involved in a restoration project before you begin.  You don’t want to find yourself in a financial situation you can’t overcome.  To find a restoration professional near you, click on your city and state, and then click on the restoration category.

Security/Alarms:

Security for your vehicle is so important, because for most of us, next to a home, a vehicle is the most expensive investment a person can make.  When installing a security system, it is crucial that the person performing the installation is knowledgeable in the security system they are installing as well as your vehicle.  Incorrect installation can prove detrimental to the electrical components in your because the security system is connected to the electrical system.  Knowledge should be a key component for your installation professional, but they must also have the proper tools and skills to perform a correct installation.

Security devices and alarms come in a wide variety of types and prices.  Shop around to find the device or alarm to fit your budget and vehicle needs.  Obtain written detail of the warranty provided by the manufacturer as well as the installation professional.  You want to make sure you do not install something that will you’re your vehicle’s manufacturer’s warranty. 

Signs/Car Wraps:

Are you in the market for a great new idea to advertise your business or upgrade your car’s appearance without something as permanent as paint?  A car wrap or sign could be the answer you need.  You can do the sign or car wrap yourself, or you can have it professionally installed.  Either way you decide to go, it is important to know what you want and have a clear idea of how it should look once installed.  Get a proof of the design prior to installation because it is costly to have to change midway through the project.  Make sure you have a clear understanding about how the car wrap or sign can be removed when you decide you no longer want it or desire a change.

Stereo Systems:

A car’s stereo system is usually one of the first things we consider when purchasing a new or used automobile.  Although most cars come with a stereo system from the manufacturer, many people choose to upgrade the stereo system.  Stereo systems come in a wide variety of sizes, styles, price ranges, and accessories.  The stereo system you choose should fit in your vehicle and should not require an alteration of your dash or anything in your car.  Any alteration to your car’s interior will most likely void the warranty provided by the car’s manufacturer.  Researching stereo systems that will be compatible for your vehicle is important because you want a quality system and want to avoid a wide variety of problems, both in the long and short term. 

Once your stereo system has been chosen, make sure the professional installing the stereo system has the proper knowledge and tools for installing the stereo system correctly.  Stereo systems are connected to the car’s electrical system, so incorrect installation can cause problems that are irreversible or costly to repair, such as shorting or wires, or electrical malfunctions. 

Storage:

Car storage can be found in both indoor and outdoor storage facilities.  For indoor storage, it is possible to use a regular, enclosed storage building.  You will have to get permission from the storage facility prior to storage, though, because some facilities are not able to store vehicles.  If you choose an outdoor facility, keep in mind that your car will be exposed to the weather and the elements.  It is important to invest in a strong and durable tarp or cover to protect it from the weather and elements, dry wrought of the tires from direct heat and sun exposure, as well as to prevent paint fade and rust.  Whether you are storing your car indoors or outdoors, it is wise to find out the proximity of other items that are being stored, and whether the facility is gated, monitored by security, and at what times you may access your stored items.  When storing your vehicle through the winter, you must be sure your car has plenty of antifreeze in the radiator and it has circulated through the entire engine prior to storage.

Tires:

Tires are probably the most common accessories that a new car owner will change.  It is best to use your car’s original tires because they were installed by the manufacturer to be specific to your car’s make and model and to maximize the performance of your vehicle. When choosing a new set of tires, keep in mind that tires come in a broad range of prices, brands and sizes.  It is important that the tire you choose fits properly on your vehicle.  It should no rub against the wheel wells because it could damage the alignment and front-end components.  This is extremely important if you choose to change the size of your car’s tires.  Changing the size of your tires will have an impact on your fuel mileage and the performance of your car when driving. It is best to replace all tires at once, but if that is not in your budget, you should at least try to replace two at a time.  If new tires do not fit into your budget, you may want to look into used tires.  Used tires can save you a considerable amount of money up front, but may not always be the most economical choice in the long run.

Towing and Recovery:

Towing and recovery can sometimes be a confusing or overwhelming category.  Let our website help you find a towing or recovery company in your area.  There are some things to keep in mind to determine who you need to call for your situation.  First, there are many different types of tow trucks, and there are many different ways of towing different types of vehicles.  A conventional wheel lift tow truck should be sufficient if you have a rear-wheel drive car or a front-wheel drive car, but if your vehicle is all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive, a flatbed truck would be the ideal choice to make.  A flatbed tow truck is most highly recommended if your vehicle sits low or has ground effects.  An accurate description of your vehicle, such as the make or model, accessories that may have altered the height of your vehicle from the ground, and if your vehicle is all-wheel, 4-wheel, front-wheel or rear-wheel drive is important to give when calling a towing company. Finally, if you are contacting a wrecker service for a recovery, it is important to give an accurate description of the recovery type so that the proper wrecker is dispatched.

Tow Truck Sales & Service:

It is not uncommon for someone to travel great distances to purchase a tow truck or wrecker because tow truck sales companies are few and far between.    It is a best to know the whereabouts of tow truck sales locations within 200-300 miles of your own location.  If you are in need of tow truck service, it is best to identify locations that are 100 miles or less of your own location.  Different wrecker and tow truck models offer many interchangeable parts, so it is important that you know that the parts you buy will actually fit the model you have.  This is so important because once that part has been installed, whether it is the proper fit or not, the part is most often not something that can be returned.  When you take your tow truck or wrecker to be repaired, make sure that the shop you are taking it to has the proper knowledge of your tow truck or wrecker, and that they have the ability to obtain the parts needed for your tow truck or wrecker.  Find out the downtime for repairing your wrecker or tow truck and make sure it is realistic, especially if the wrecker or tow truck is your livelihood.

The prices of tow trucks and the abilities of the equipment options vary.  Prior to making a purchase of such magnitude, it is important to know that the wrecker or tow truck you are looking at is capable of performing all the tasks that you require. 

Transmission Repair:

Many transmission repair shops specialize only in transmission repair because transmission repair requires a high level of knowledge and experience.  A vehicle’s transmission a key component in the vehicle’s operation, and without proper maintenance of your transmission, your car’s performance can be impaired, which may possibly lead to costly repairs. 

It is important to regularly maintain your transmission just as you would your engine, tires, brakes, etc. Consult your owner’s manual for the proper maintenance schedule and specific needs for your car’s transmission.  It is important that you always keep an accurate record of all maintenance performed on your vehicle, including the date the service was performed and the specific items maintained. 

There are two types of transmissions, standard and automatic.  With an automatic transmission, it is necessary to regularly check the transmission fluid.  Make sure that your vehicle is warmed up and running when the transmission fluid is checked. In a standard transmission, you can’t just pull out a dipstick to check the transmission fluid, so it is not as easy as an automatic transmission.  In order to check transmission fluid in a standard transmission, you need to actually get under the car and remove the plug with a wrench to check the grease in a standard transmission.  This is a difficult task, so you may prefer to have a mechanic perform the check of your standard transmission when you have a regular oil and lube service performed on your vehicle.

Transporters:

Automotive transport companies provide the service of transporting cars from one location to another.  A transporter is capable of transporting one car at a time or multiple cars at a time, depending on the size of the trailer being used for the transport.  When making a decision to have your vehicle transported, find out if the trailer transporting your vehicle is enclosed or open, the route it will be transported, how long it will be in transport, the amount of coverage for your vehicle while in transport, the cost of the transport, and most importantly, a written detail of each of these items.

Upholstery:

When you are looking to upgrade or change the interior appearance of your automobile, you will need to work with an upholstery specialist.  Upholstery specialists can change your automobile’s interior from a worn out, tattered and torn product of yesteryear to a modern-day, custom interior suited for you and your taste.  Changing the upholstery can easily change the appearance of your car from the headliner and door panels, to seats and carpeting.  Some people choose to purchase upholstery from another car they find in a salvage yard or upholstery that is brand new that can be found in a material supply store, or online. It is important that you get a good idea of the cost of upholstery, materials and labor, if you choose to purchase new or used upholstery.  Knowing these things before you get started will help you decide what will work for your budget and your personal preferences.  Ask the upholstery specialist to provide you with a written explanation, including details about what you should expect from the upholstery specialist, and what they will expect from you. 

Welding:

When you make any changes to your vehicle, there are many things that may require an experienced welder, especially when installing aftermarket parts such as truck beds, lift kits, bumpers, etc.  A certified welder will have a great effect on the safety and quality of your vehicle’s welded parts.  Keep in mind that when you decide to weld anything on the frame of a vehicle, in most cases, will void your factory warranty.  Before welding anything on your vehicle, check the owner’s manual or call the vehicle manufacturer to make sure that what you are welding on to the vehicle will not void the warranty.