Whether your vehicle is serviced at the dealership or at a local repair shop, you can expect to spend hundreds of dollars a year on oil changes, tuneup services and air filter replacements.
Although you may not have the skills to repair every component of your vehicle, there are plenty of minor things that you can do yourself. Interested in maintaining your car without a mechanic? Here are 8 DIY car repair tips to help you keep your vehicle in good condition and save money in the process.
1. Change the oil.
DIY Oil changes are the most common repairs for vehicle owners. In fact, it’s one of the easiest DIY repairs.
To change your vehicle’s oil, you’ll need an oil filter, funnel, wrench, oil canister, ratchet and wrench. When you take your vehicle to a service center, you can expect to spend up to $70 for each oil change.
2. Replace worn windshield wipers.
Worn windshield wipers should be replaced immediately. Fortunately, this is something you can do yourself. Many auto mechanics charge up to $16 to replace each blade. If you replace your windshield wipers yourself, you will only have to pay for the cost of the blades.
3. Inspect and replace spark plugs.
Replacing your automobile’s spark plugs is super easy to do. New spark plugs can improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and cause it to drive smoother. This is an inexpensive way to keep your vehicle in good condition.
4. Replace the air filter.
When your air filters are clogged, it can lead to decreased vehicle performance. A benefit of replacing your air filter is it will boost your car’s fuel economy. Inspect and replace dirty air filters as needed.
5. Flush the radiator.
The radiator is an essential component of your vehicle. Its purpose is to keep your vehicle from overheating. Flushing the radiator will remove debris and deposits that have the potential to clog your car’s cooling system.
6. Replace fuses.
Replacing blown fuses is another inexpensive way that you can care for your vehicle without the assistance of an automobile mechanic. Inspect your vehicle’s fuse box to determine which fuses require replacement. If you need help determining the type of fuses that are required for your car, check your owner’s manual.
7. Check and replace the battery.
Depending on your vehicle, a new battery can cost up to $200. If you take it to a service center, you could be charged up to $100 to replace it. This is a great deal of money considering it only takes a few minutes to replace a battery.
8. Remove and replace the windshield washer tank.
If you own an older vehicle, your windshield washer tank can get dirty. Since the purpose of the tank is to hold the fluid that cleans dirty windows, it makes sense to replace it. Before you replace the tank, remove the washer pump. Remove the bolts from your old washer and insert the new one.
There are so many DIY repairs for vehicles. By following these DIY tips, you can save money.