car air filter replacement

Car Maintenance You Can DIY

Car Diy Repairs

Due to challenging times, I can’t blame you for finding ways on how to save on your car repairs. Although I still highly suggest having your car checked, maintained, and repaired by a professional, there can be some simple car repairs you can do on your own. You also have to use your senses to detect car problems early on.

As for the other more complicated repairs leave most of the work on the hands of professionals. They are well-trained, experienced and some don’t really charge that much. You can always ask for a quote if you are unsure about their price. 

If you really want to save on car repairs and DIY, here are a few things that you can do:

Change The Battery

One of the easiest things you can do is to replace the car battery. They won’t last forever and will typically have a life of about 4-6 years. Don’t wait until you observe car problems due to your car battery. Furthermore, don’t wait until your battery is dead before replacing it. Most batteries have a date stamp on them so you can easily figure out when to change them. 

To change the batteries, all that you need would be wrenches. The only tricky part here is the order of the cables you remove and replace. The first one you should remove is the negative cable but when replacing the battery, it should also be the last one you put back. 

Changing Spark Plugs

Nowadays, spark plugs have an extended life and could last up to 100,000 miles before needing a replacement. However, you should still check on them every 30,000 miles just to be sure.

While a bit more challenging than simply changing the battery, your vehicle’s spark-plugs can easily be replaced if 1) You have the right tools and…2) You use the proper torque.

It is essential to tighten a spark plug to the specified turning angle or torque setting as torque directly impacts a spark plugs ability to remove heat from the combustion chamber. Over tightening can cause damage to the threads in the cylinder head and the threads of the spark plug, stress the spark plugs internal seal, or fracture the spark plugs insulator.

To remove / replace spark-plug, you’ll also need an aptly-named spark-plug wrench. Generally inexpensive, spark-plug wrenches employ an articulating long socket that can easily be maneuvered into your engine’s valve block.

Windshield Wiper Replacement

Another easy thing to repair in your car are windshield wipers. It will only take you a few minutes to do the replacement.

The process is very easy and most wipers have instructions already and all you have to do is to follow them. 

Air Filter Replacement

This is another simple replacement and all you need is an air filter compatible with your vehicle. Make sure you know your car make and model when buying one.

To replace it, you will only need to remove the screws, open up the filter housing then replace the old filter with the new then place the screws back. 

Headlight or Tail Light Replacement

Your lights make you visible and help you see the road so it is best to always check on them.

If one of your bulbs isn’t working, you can simply replace the old bulb with a new one. When doing so, make sure to bring your old busted bulb to the shop so you can buy the correct one that’s compatible with your vehicle. 

Terry Wade

Terry Wade is a traveling Car Mechanic in Southfield Michigan. He's been repairing cars for nearly 20 years.
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TerrysArticles is brought to you by ME!, traveling Mechanic Terry Wade, I’m do my darndest to update the site with the best quality articles and news available on the internet and elsewhere to help you diagnose and fix your vehicle yourself.

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T Wade - At the Shop
T Wade - At the Shop

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