Ever get that sneaking suspicion when you take your car in for repair that you're overpaying or getting needless work done? If you want to make sure you get service you can trust, keep in mind these tips for what to ask at the shop and signs of good (and bad) mechanics.

You're driving home from work one day when the car owner's worst nightmare happens: the check engine light pops on. It comes without warning and with no explanation. For most drivers, this means a trip to the mechanic, but it's not difficult to diagnose (and sometimes fix) yourself.

Car repairs can drain your pocketbook fast, but you can do a wide range of repairs yourself, regardless of your technical skill. We're not just talking oil changes; provided you can hold a wrench, you can fix everything ranging from fuel filters to alternators. We'll detail the tools necessary for your DIY toolkit,…