3 Auto Repairs You Can Do Yourself
Saturday, November 14, 2020, 6:00 AM | Leave Comment
The United States is car happy. You won’t find a home without at least one vehicle. Maybe they have two or more. We buy and sell cars at a rapid pace.
As of 2018, there were over 270 million cars on the road. Out of these, some may need repairs to keep them going.
However, their owners might not have the time or money to make it happen.
That’s okay. There are plenty of repairs that require special tools and should only be done by professional mechanics, like this auto repair shop in Austin, TX.
However, there are some jobs you can do that not only take a short period of time but also allow you to gain some knowledge.
Here are 3 auto repairs you can do yourself.
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Oil Change
While everything else has gotten too compact or computerized in today’s vehicles the oil change has not. It’s still a simple process if you’re aware of the tools required and you have space and time to make it happen.
You want to change your oil regularly because it helps keep your car running as smoothly as possible. When it’s not done, the oil can burn off or might mix with other elements and cause additional issues. So, make sure you set the repair on your calendar.
You don’t need much to change your oil. It requires a new filter, the type of oil your vehicle uses, some car ramps, and old sheets or towels to place on the floor. You also want to use something to collect the old oil.
The basic steps are:
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Drive the car’s front tires on the ramps.
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Place the coverings on the ground.
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Undo the oil filter, and let it drain completely.
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Put in the new filter.
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Fill the oil repository.
You can’t throw the oil in the garbage. Your local landfill probably has an area that takes used oil. Make sure you go there.
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Air Filters
Like an oil change, not much has changed in the replacement of air filters. At one time, the only filter was near the engine. Today, manufacturers also place filters inside to keep the air clean.
You’ll know when it’s time to replace these filters. When the inside one goes bad the cabin has a moldy and misty smell. Also, a film develops on the windshield. The engine filter needs replacement when you detect the same moldy odor at the initial start of the heating and cooling fans.
How you replace these depends on the make and model of your car. Normally, cabin filters are under the passenger side dashboard, below or inside the glove compartment. Newer models can also have filters in rear control panels. The engine filter is near its housing. Check your manuals or YouTube for more details on how to change the cabin air filter.
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Head/Tail Light Bulbs
Several bulbs make up your head and tail lights. In the front, there are bulbs used for running lights, high beams, and turn signals. The rear lights have bulbs for nighttime driving, brakes, and turn signals.
You won’t know if a head or tail light is out unless someone tells you or you notice when automatically unlocking your doors. You know the turn signal lights are out when the clicks that signify direction are faster than normal.
These bulbs aren’t interchangeable. Thus, you need to know the models of all of them before you make a purchase. Then, follow the steps in your vehicle’s manual or YouTube videos to learn how to make the changes.
Sometimes, these lights simply pop out for quick replacement. Other times, you need to utilize tools like a screwdriver to make things happen.
These are only a few of the repairs you can make on your car. Replacing your windshield wipers, spark plug replacement, and changing your battery are also common jobs that can be done by a vehicle owner. They can save both time and money.
However, you need to take these repairs slowly. Don’t try to shove parts in places where they’re not supposed to be. Also, watch out when you perform any electrical repairs. Be patient, especially if it’s your first time performing these acts.
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