5 Essential DIY Auto Repair Tips to Save You Time & Money

If you’re handy enough, you may be able to do some simple DIY car repairs to keep your car running smoothly. However, there are some jobs that are better left to the professionals. In addition, doing some of the basic maintenance yourself can save you time and money.

You might want to check your air filter. A dirty filter can cause performance issues and a loss in gas mileage. It takes a few minutes to replace it, and it will help you avoid future damage.

Another important maintenance task is checking the fluid levels. Engine oil, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid should all be checked periodically. The best way to do this is to have a reputable shop manual at hand. These will have specific instructions on how to perform the various tasks.

To change a tire, you’ll need an emergency jack and a lug wrench. You should make sure the lug nuts aren’t coated with grease. Also, make sure the jack is lowered only to the point of contact with the tire. Auto Repair Cerritos This will give you the most safety while you’re raising the vehicle.

You can also change the headlight bulbs in your car. This is one of the easiest home repairs to perform. Make sure you get the correct bulb for your car. With a little bit of patience, you’ll be able to save yourself a trip to the auto parts store.

If you’re looking for a more complex repair, you might consider having the car battery replaced. If your battery is over 9 years old, you can save some money by having it replaced. Depending on your particular vehicle, the cost can range from $10 to over $300. But, even if you don’t plan to replace your battery, you should still inspect it regularly to ensure it’s in good shape.

You should also consider replacing your shock absorbers. Shocks absorbers wear out after about 80,000 miles, and driving on them costs more in the long run. They can be replaced for less than $25.

You should also inspect your brakes. Brake pads and rotors are two of the key components of your brake system. Checking them regularly will help prevent serious damage.

Another repair you should consider doing is replacing a worn out windshield. Whether you’re driving in rain or snow, a bad windshield can be dangerous. Replacing it can take about fifteen minutes. For an easy way to do this, you can purchase a windshield repair kit.

Some of the most important car repairs you can do yourself are changing your oil. If you do it every 3,000 miles, you’ll have better fuel efficiency, and you’ll extend the life of your vehicle. Other maintenance tasks you should do include replacing the engine coolant and cleaning the battery terminals.

Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional, keeping a vehicle in good working order can save you a lot of trouble and expense in the long run. By avoiding expensive and unnecessary repairs, you can stay on the road for many years.