One of the common expenses we forget to include in our monthly budgets is car repair and maintenance. To function smoothly, your vehicles require regular maintenance, which can be expensive. Thankfully, there are some auto repairs you can do yourself. However, you will need to equip yourself with replacement parts, simple tools, and some basic knowledge about replacing air filters, oil, and spark plugs.
Here are six car repair you can do on your own:
Air filter
A car needs new air filters every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, you don’t have to pay a mechanic to do that; you can replace your air filter at home in less than ten minutes. It doesn’t even require special tools. The air filter will be in a black rectangular box with metal clips on the side under the hood of your car. Open up the casing and note the direction of the filter and fit the new ones in the same orientation.
Windshield wipers
Changing wipers is like changing your air filter. To remove old blades, push the tab on the wiper’s underside. Now, attach the new blades, but make sure you don’t scratch your windshield or bend the wiper arms. Line everything up secure and tight. Don’t forget to check them before heading out on a rainy day.
Spark plugs
Most cars require a spark plug replacement after about 30,000 miles. However, to be sure, check your owner’s manual. Changing spark plugs might sound technical, but it’s a simple process. Spark plugs are relatively easy to replace as they’re attached to thick rubbery wires. According to the model and number of cylinders, you’ll find either four, six, or eight plugs.
Do not remove all the spark plug wires at once, as they are installed in a particular order. You’ll need an extension and a spark plug socket to remove each plug. Replace and tighten each plug one by one with a wrench for a snug fit.
Oil and oil filter
You should change your oil every 3,000 miles. You can save time and money by changing both oil and its filters yourself. However, ensure that you never change the oil when the engine is hot. You’ll need to jack up your car, so make sure you can safely handle tools.
Radiator flush
You need a clean radiator and cooling system for the car to work efficiently. The car’s radiator builds up deposits during normal wear and tear and disrupts the cooling system. To change the radiator flush, you’ll need a head screwdriver, a wrench, a few rags, radiator flush solution, coolant, funnel, and about 30 minutes.
Brake pads
You’ll need to replace most brake pads around every 20,000 miles. However, don’t forget to check your owner’s manual for specifics about your model. You’ll need a lug wrench, C-clamp, open-end or adjustable wrench, and hammer. The process takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
About Jet Auto Transmission
Our mechanics have decades of experience handling transmission repair and replacement. All our staff is ASE certified, and we have been serving the residents of West Park, Florida, since 1987. You can call us at (954) 251-1204 to get a free quote and information about costs and other queries relating to economical vehicle & auto transmission repair services.