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Thrifty Commandments
#12: Don't profit at the expense of your friends or family
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Guide to Car Repair and Maintenance
Change Your Oil and Rotate
Keep a Repair Log
Check Strange Noises
Find a Reputable Mechanic
Call an Auto Parts Store
Get Multiple Car Repair Quotes
Do Not Use Car Dealerships

Mr. Thrifty Principle # 4: Shop around for a reputable mechanic with experience with your specific model car

Mr. Thrifty seeks mechanics with three characteristics: a) competent, b) honest, and c) reasonably priced. Everyone knows someone that is knowledgeable about cars. Find a car nut and take them to lunch. For the price of a Subway sandwich, you can learn from them the most reputable mechanics in town. (Note that Mr. Thrifty doesn’t recommend the “best” mechanic, as usually this equates to “expensive”.) Check out the Better Business Bureau (http://www.bbb.org/) to make sure they are in good standing. Questions to ask:

How long have they been in business?
Do they have experience repairing your specific model of car?
Do they have a reputation for suggesting unnecessary repairs?
Are their prices fair?

Doing your homework can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your car.
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