Owning a car is a great thing but keeping it well maintained can take a toll on your budget. Here we discuss some do-it-yourself (DIY) car repairs that you can easily handle on your own using simple tools and little patience. However, for complex problems it is always advisable to take your car to an authorized service dealer.
1. Replace Wiper Blades
Why DIY?
-Instructions on package. Wiper blades are light in weight and typically snap in by hand so no need for a mechanic here.
Tip
-Slightly tilt the wiper arms upward and the blades will be removed easily.
Tool Needed
- Just need a screwdriver and new blades.
Time Needed
- Less than 5 minutes.
2. Replace Fuse
Why DIY?
- It is just as simple as replacing your home fuse box. Besides, the car fuse box cover is labeled making it easy for you to identify the circuit.
Tip
- Location of the fuse box and type of fuse needed is provided in car owner's manual.
Tool Needed
- Fuse puller (usually inside car), flashlight (if needed)
Time Needed
- Less than 12 minutes.
3. Replace Light Bulb
Why DIY?
- As simple as replacing light bulb at home. All you have to do is push in and twist to remove and then install.
Tip
- Buy the right bulb from a trusted auto parts store. Make sure the new bulb is just like the old one.
Tool Needed
- A screwdriver to replace lens
Time Needed
- Less than 10 minutes.
4. Replace Air Filter
Why DIY?
-Filter box is easy to locate as it lies on top of the engine. Remove the cover and you can easily lift out the filter.
Tip
- Filter box cover does not cost much; replacing it yourself will help you save on labor cost.
Tool Needed
- Just a screwdriver to remove cover of filter box.
Time Needed
- Less than 15 minutes.
5. Change Engine Oil and Filter
Why DIY?
-It is easier to do it in new cars as these have more accessible oil filters and there are less chances of spill.
Tip
- Read the car owner's manual to know the type of engine oil and recommended capacity.
Tool Needed
- Latex gloves, drain pan, funnel, oil filter wrench and a combination wrench.
Time Needed
- Less than 30 minutes.
6. Remove Stripped Screws
Why DIY?
-In case, you happen to damage a stripped screw's head, you need to work carefully to remove it in the right way.
Tip
- Screw head can be severed easily from the body once the screw head separates.
Tool Needed
- Drills for stripped screws with diameter.
Time Needed
- Less than 10 minutes.
7. Tire Replacement
Why DIY?
- Damaged wheels need to be replaced immediately using spare tire. This is one thing that most drivers need to know.
Tip
- Get the tires balanced later.
Tool Needed
- Jack and tire changing tools provided by most car makers.
Time Needed
- Less than 20 minutes.
8. Check Radiator Hoses
Why DIY?
-It is easy to replace damaged radiator hoses as these are typically held by screws and clamps. Never run your car with a worn out radiator hose as they may have developed leaks that could drain the coolant levels and heat up your car engine.
Tip
-Check the upper as well as the lower radiator hoses and replace them if they are damaged.
Tool Needed
- Screwdriver
Time Needed
- Less than 15 minutes.
9. Check Car Batteries
Why DIY?
-Batteries are an important component of a car. You can check them on your own if they require a change.
Tip
- If your battery shows lower than 9.7 volts when starting the engine, it's time to replace it.
Tool Needed
- Suitable gloves, eye protection and a voltmeter.
Time Needed
- Less than 10 minutes.
10. Check Car Signal Relays
Why DIY?
-Turn signal relays are quite easy to troubleshoot. They could possibly have a bad turn signal relay or a dead bulb. A turn signal relay bulb is inexpensive and it is easy to replace it.
Tip
-In your car owner's manual check for relay cluster and then the turn signal relay.
Tool Needed
- No Tools Required.
Time Needed
- Less than 15 minutes.
11. Check Seat Belts
Why DIY?
-You can easily replace seat belts as well as belt retractors using the right screwdrivers. Just remove the cover and replace the new parts with the old.
Tip
-Test the new seat belt to check if they are working fine.
Tool Needed
- Screwdrivers
Time Needed
- Less than 20 minutes.
So, when you get a chance try your hand at these DIY repairs. You can manage these even if you are not a technical person. With experience, you will not only save money managing car repairs on your own but will also enjoy looking after your prized possession.
