Get Your Hands Dirty: An Introduction to DIY Car Maintenance

Air filter replacement – The air filter, located under the hood inside the air filter housing, filters and cleans the incoming air the engine uses.

Bulbs – Bulbs don’t require maintenance; we replace them when they blow. I want to say replacing car bulbs is a simple job, and it is once you gain access to the light bulb fitting.

Access in modern cars is sometimes an issue. If you know, you know.

Battery maintenance & replacement – Batteries don’t require much maintenance, as long as you use your vehicle regularly. Battery terminals do need cleaning from time to time. The battery is, as you know, charged by the engine’s alternator when the engine is running.

Brake fluid check – Brake fluid doesn’t require much maintenance; we check the level and replace it every 3 years per our manufacturer’s specs.

Brake pad check – When we check brakes, we generally check all the components; we typically check brake fluid, the front and rear brake pads, or the shoe linings for wear.

Belts – Engines use belts to drive auxiliary components such as alternators (charge battery), A/C pump (cools and dries cabin air), Water pump (circulates coolant through the coolant system), and Power steering pump (provides power steering).

Coolant level – The coolant system is, as you know, critical for engine health. Any problem in the cooling department quickly becomes apparent in both winter and summer. Typical coolant system maintenance includes a visual check of the coolant level and its strength.

Oil check – Oil lubricates the moving parts of your engine and keeps them from grinding against each other.

Oil change – Regular oil changes help to lubricate and protect your car’s engine, reduce wear and tear, and improve fuel efficiency.

Transmission oil check – Checking your transmission oil is important for maintaining your car’s transmission system.

Transmission oil change – Transmission oil changes are crucial for maintaining your car’s transmission system. Over time, oil can break down and become contaminated, leading to poor shifting, overheating, and even transmission failure.

Spark plug replacement – Crucial for keeping your car’s engine running smoothly. Worn or damaged plugs can lead to poor fuel efficiency, misfires, and even engine damage.

Changing a flat – Always worth knowing how to change a flat. Sure, AAA will do it, but when?

Tire wear check – Your car’s tires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road. As such, they play a critical role in your car’s performance and safety. To ensure that your tires are in good condition, check them regularly for any signs of wear and tear.

Tire pressure check – Check the tire pressure regularly. Low pressure can cause your tires to wear unevenly and affect your car’s stability and fuel efficiency.

Tire rotation – Rotating tires, we don’t actually rotate the tires. We rotate the wheels. Meaning we move the front wheel to the back and vice versa.

Wiper replacement: Wiper blades are important for maintaining good visibility while driving.

Wiper washer fluid top-up – Topping up your wiper washer fluid is important for maintaining good visibility while driving. Running out of fluid can lead to streaks, smearing, and reduced effectiveness, making it difficult to see the road. Topping it up regularly can improve safety and prevent accidents.