Car ownership is already expensive — gas, oil, maintenance. But a lot of the time, we go to the mechanic for simple fixes we could do at home. These DIY fixes and repairs can save you money and a trip to the mechanic — but only if you know how to do them.
Repairs you should be able to do
If you’re a guy who owns a car, you should be able to do each of these seven simple fixes.
1. Change the Oil
Changing your oil is one of the most straightforward kinds of car maintenance you can do at home — and it can save you a lot of money, too.
If you don’t know how, there’s no shame in it. But learning how to change your oil is a great way to save money and understand your car better. It requires fewer tools and less know-how than just about any other kind of DIY car maintenance. And if you don’t know what kind of oil and filter works best, you’re liable to get ripped off at the mechanic. When you change your oil yourself, the only cost is the oil, the filter and a little bit of your time.
Just make sure you’re not wearing your favorite shirt — it can get messy.
2. Change the Air Filter
Replacing the filter is a common fix mechanics will mark you up for.
Air filters are cheap parts, easy to match and usually easy to access. Some models with more advanced or intricate A/C systems will require some research — but for most cars, changing your air filter is a quick fix you should know how to do.
3. Remove and Repair Surface Rust
If you’ve got rust on the outside body of your car, removing it won’t require a trip to the body shop. You can treat and remove surface rust at home with just a few tools and some automotive paint to match the color of your car.
Being able to remove spot problems like surface rust is a handy car maintenance skill. When you’ve got rust, the problem is only going to get worse over time. Removing it when you first notice it can save yourself time and money.
4. Replace the Windshield Wipers
Windshield wiper replacement can cost as much as $100 plus materials if you go to a dealer or mechanic, which is crazy considering how quickly you can replace your windshield wipers yourself.
If the motor’s gone out, however, you may want to enlist a mechanic.
5. Replace the Brake Lights, Headlights or Taillights
When any of your lights are out, you can be a danger to other drivers. Luckily, brake lights, headlights and taillights are all easy replacements. On most cars, all you’ll need to get started are a ratchet wrench and screwdriver.
Car light bulbs are not universal, and you will need the bulb that fits your model. Bring the old bulb with you to the store so the clerk can match it and get you the right one.
If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to incorporate a now-and-then walkaround of your car into your weekly routine. It’s the best way to know if any of your lights are out. The worst way to know is getting pulled over for it. Plus, if you know how to change the lights, you can upgrade them to something that’s a lot cooler.
6. Maintain the Battery
Just because your battery isn’t starting doesn’t mean it’s dead. Even a little bit of the blue or white residue from battery corrosion can keep your car from starting. Before replacing the battery, try cleaning its posts.
Cleaning the posts may not save your battery, but it’s always better to have a fix you can try before replacing it.
7. Crucial Repairs: Change a Flat
You don’t want to get stuck on the side of the road and have to admit you don’t know how to change a tire. It’s one of the simplest repairs you can do, but if you don’t know how, you’ll be in trouble.
All you’ll need is a jack and a lug wrench with a pry bar on one end. Practice by changing your tire in your driveway or parking lot — and maybe call a friend who’s changed a tire before.
Keep a spare tire and jack in your trunk, and you can save yourself a huge headache the next time you find yourself with a flat.
Getting Extra Mileage out of These Fixes
These fixes are just the basics, but they can take you a long way. Being able to do essential car maintenance will save you a lot of trips to the mechanic, and maybe even a couple of hours stuck on the side of the highway.
You aren’t necessarily going to be able to avoid every visit to the mechanic, but these fixes are a great way to save some of your money and time.
