Given how complex today’s cars and trucks are, what kind of maintenance can you do yourself? Actually, there is plenty of car maintenance you can do on your own, including changing a tire, installing wiper blades, replacing bulbs, and more.
Tire Change
One relatively easy task you can complete on your own is a tire change. Changing all four tires at home, due to wear, is a slightly trickier proposition that may be best left to the pros. However, changing a flat in an emergency, something every driver should know how to do, can be accomplished using the on-board jack. To change a tire, you need a jack, jack stands, and a lug wrench. It is always wise to keep these items in your car to assist in urgent situations. Quick tip: Use your owner’s manual to find the correct spot for the jack stands.
Wiper Blade Installment
Installing new windshield wiper blades is an easy task for the do-it-yourselfer. It should be done immediately if the blades are cracked, otherwise every six months or so should do the trick and maximize visibility in inclement weather. It typically takes only a few minutes to remove and replace wipers. Sometimes this job can be performed without tools, but you should be able to get it done if you have a screwdriver lying around.
Bulb Replacement
Even in today’s complex automobiles, it’s not too hard to replace a burnt-out headlight, taillight, or turn-signal bulb. Depending on the car, you may not even need tools.
Air Filter Replacement
Other simple fixes include replacing an air filter—often a simple matter of removing the old one and popping a new one in. It’s easy to neglect this simple fix, but a clean air filter improves fuel economy and performance. For most vehicles, tools won’t be required, but in some cases you may need a screwdriver.
Oil Change
Oil changes are relatively simple for most vehicles. You’ll need a jack, jack stands, a drain pan, an oil drip, an oil filter, an oil filter wrench, plus the oil. Many modern vehicles make it harder to reach the engine, but usually the oil-filler neck and oil-drain plugs are still accessible.
Taking care of certain aspects of car maintenance yourself will save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. On new or used vehicles, these fixes don’t require that much equiptment and are a great way to attempt some DIY tasks.
