DIY Car Maintenance Tasks to Try at Home

diy car maintenance

Car owners may be tempted to skip maintenance because it is an extra cost they need to pay for. But it is essential since it helps you prevent more costly repairs and breakdowns in the future. Fortunately, certain maintenance tasks are DIY projects and can save you money, as the average cost of car repairs ranges between $300 to $500.

Anyone with the right tools can learn to do these things instead of paying someone else.

This article highlights some DIY car maintenance tasks you can tackle at home. 

#1 Brakes

Brake pads can range in price from $35 to $150. Conversely, garages can charge $300 or more to replace them. You should complete this maintenance work as soon as possible because if the brake pads wear down to less than ⅛ of an inch, they might harm the rotors, resulting in more expensive and complex repairs.

This project is surprisingly easy; you must lug the wrench and a jack to remove the tires. You can then slide the old one out and clip the new one using the included screws.

However, knowing how to conduct this repair is key so you may need to refer to specific online guidance notes for the model of your car.

For example, you can leverage the Nissan Sentra service manual as a guide that can help you undertake these DIY tasks if you drive this vehicle brand. 

#2 Battery 

It’s worth noting that battery replacement is a straightforward procedure. This task is required since you do not want to be stuck anywhere or jump into your car at home if you are late for work or an appointment.

The replacement procedure is just as simple as disconnecting the wires, securing the new battery and reconnecting the wires in the proper and required order. 

#3 Changing car oil

You can change your car oil with a racket, funnel, and wrench. You must ensure your vehicle does not move during the procedure. If you have driven in the two previous hours, your car will be too hot, so wait for it to cool down.

Conventional oil changes should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles; however, it’s worth noting that synthetic oils can go 7,5000 to 9,500 miles between changes. Car oil can range between $20 and $30, but most garages charge double that for a lubrication change. When changing this fluid, remember that you must also replace the oil filter. 

#4 Replacing windshield wipers

Windshield wipers are necessary because they allow you to see in severe weather conditions. If they get frayed, damaged or twisted, they can cause severe vision loss. Windshield wipers come in a variety of styles. Those with a pin or hook-and-slide design are quite simple to replace.

You unfasten the old blade without additional equipment and then secure the new one. Straight-end connection wipers require a screwdriver to depress a tab within the arm. Unless there is a problem, no extra tools are required.  Windshield wipers typically cost $12 to $16, and you may save money on labour by doing this task yourself. 

Here we have discussed just 4 points that you can do at your home.

Being an Electric Car owner, you need not do the Battery replacement and Oil change for your vehicle.

Here is an article about “3 Great Ways to Look After an Electric Car”

It would be helpful for you!!