12 Car Maintenance Tasks You Can Do Yourself
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Car ownership comes with its own fair share of maintenance costs. Nevertheless, one can handle a number of basic car repairs themselves and with the aid of the internet and this will save much money eventually.
Recent research done by AAA has shown that repair costs from professional garages can quickly go up to hundreds if not thousands of dollars. It is therefore this financial burden that makes many drivers find other means for their cars. At times, mechanics’ hourly rates would hit $215 thereby underscoring the need for self-repair. Listed below are 12 simple fixes to help you avoid costly trips to the auto shop.
12. Replace Air Filter
A blocked air filter might reduce your vehicle’s performance levels significantly. To boost acceleration and fuel efficiency, manufacturers normally advise replacing an engine air filter between 15,000 and 45,000 miles.
11. Change Spark Plugs
Faulty spark plugs may prevent your engine from starting off properly. In most vehicles however, they are relatively easy to fix or replace and do not cost much.
10. Oil Changing
It is necessary to change oil regularly in order to keep the engine functioning well at all times. Do-it-yourself (DIY), as it is often known, allows you to spend less on unnecessary things.
9. Install New Fuel Filters
Engine longevity depends on how clean your fuel filters are kept and while fitting them yourself is plain sailing just remember always alleviate fuel system pressure first so as not to have any accidents occurring.
8. Radiator Flushing
Flushing your radiator every five years or 100,000 miles helps prevent overheating problems of the engine; simply follow manufacturer instructions for seamless experience.
7. Replace Battery
Your car might stop if its battery dies off completely but luckily changing it becomes an easy process since only basic equipment needed are involved.
6. Changing Brake Pads
Grinding or squeaking sound when you press brakes indicate worn-out brake pads. Although it may be more complicated, replacing them on your own can save you a large amount of money.
5. Replace Blown Fuses
Blown fuse in your vehicle can cause multiple electrical problems. To do this all one has to do is follow the step by step guideline given at the end of the owner’s manual.
4. Fix Signal Relays
Signal relays with defects hinder turning signals from working correctly. The fastest way to address this problem is to consult your car’s manual for guidance.
3. Switching Tires
While changing a tire requires some effort, it is a skill that every motorist should have. After changing a tire, consider getting it balanced to guarantee peak performance.
2. Top-Up Washer Fluid
Visibility during poor weather conditions is maintained through proper washer fluid levels in any case. It only takes topping it up.
1. Changing Radiator Hosepipes
Radiator hoses that are ruined can lead to engine overheating and loss of coolant. Nonetheless, changing them rarely calls for much tools and thus little time is involved here.
Be sure you have the owner’s manual of your auto before you begin any repairs with appropriate safety gear lined up too. Having all these in place will make DIY car repair as satisfying as possible and also pocket friendly.
Editor-in-Chief • Industry Trends Writer
Ethan analyzes market shifts and predicts future developments in different industries to keep his audience well informed and ready.
