You’ve gone in to get your oil changed. It’s not the first time the mechanic has come in to shake out the dirt and debris in your air filter to show you how badly it needs to be replaced.
They’re happy to do it for you – at an outrageous price – but you couldn’t possibly do it yourself, so it’s the best option you have, right? Of course not!
You may not be a mechanic, but there are definitely car maintenance tasks you can take care of quickly and easily on your own. Even better, if you do, your maintenance expenses will go way down.
Also, you just might learn the language basics your car has been speaking to you all these years.
Filters and Fluids
Checking and changing your filters and fluids regularly will keep your car in good shape and help extend its life. If you’re not sure where to start, begin with reading your owner’s manual, as it will detail the specific fluids types, etc. that will make your vehicle run best.
You can also refer to the instructions that may come with the new product.
- Air filters – for both the engine and cabin. Try to check these monthly and change them about every 12,000 miles.
- Oil level – check your oil level every few weeks and before any big road trips. You should be changing your oil about every 5,000 miles, which you can have a professional do if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself yet.
- Coolant – check your coolant levels every 6 months, preferably just before winter and again just before summer, and top it off as needed.
- Screenwash – top this off regularly and make sure it’s good to go during winter months.
Tires
If your tires are in bad shape, then you probably won’t make it very far. It’s easy to take care of your tires on your own, but some garages are great about offering some of these services for free. It doesn’t hurt to follow along with a YouTube tutorial for your specific make and model either.
- Check tire pressure – recommended weekly, but at least with seasonal temperature changes.
- Tire tread – bald tires can be especially dangerous in rain or other weather conditions. Rotate your tires every 5,000 -10,000 miles to make them last longer. You should also check their alignment and prepare for the day they’ll need to be replaced.
Engine
This is the part where you might get nervous if you don’t know your way around an engine. If you’re not sure where to begin, ask a trusted friend or mechanic to teach you the ropes and lend you some tools. If you have questions, your local auto parts shop is a great resource as well.
- Stripped screws – make sure your screws are in good working order. If they’re worn or broken, replace them immediately. They may be small, but they’re an important part of your vehicle.
- Battery – lasts about 5 years. To clean corrosion from your battery connections, you can use a bottle of Coke. When it’s time for a new one, recycle your car battery and get some cash in return.
Vehicle Cosmetics
Taking care of the way your car looks does more than make you look good when you’re flying down the road; it protects your vehicle from environmental damage and helps you stay safe on the road.
- Wash and detail your car – remember to vacuum the trunk and wipe the dust and dirt away from all your interior surfaces.
- Windshield wipers – if you have lots of winter weather, it’s a good idea to change your wipers yearly to keep your windshield in good shape.
- Inner window panes – insides get streaky and dusty, too!
- Lights – clean your head and tail light lenses so you can drive safely at night, and replace your cabin bulbs as needed.
Do have a teenager? As you know having your own car is a big step to becoming independent. How do know when your teenager is ready for their own car.
Here are some of the signs they may be ready.
