Hey Lykkers, have you ever thought about doing your own car maintenance? It's true that car prices have dropped a little, but the cost of maintaining and repairing a car has certainly not followed that trend.
"It's easy to buy a car, but hard to maintain it" is something that most of us can relate to. Since car maintenance is something we need to spend on regularly, learning how to DIY some of the tasks can help save a lot of money.
And trust us, not only will it save you cash, but it will also help you better understand your vehicle. So, let's dive into some car maintenance tasks that you can totally do yourself, even without advanced technical skills.
Replacing the Wiper Blades
Replacing wiper blades is one of the simplest and cheapest maintenance tasks. There's no need to visit a repair shop for this one — it's fast and easy! We recommend replacing your wiper blades every year. Most wiper blades are designed for quick removal and installation, and you can easily detach them by pressing a small clip.
How to Do It:
1. Start by removing the cover on the wiper arm.
2. Loosen the nut that holds the wiper blade in place, then lift the wiper arm to a vertical position.
3. After a gentle tug, the old blade will come off.
4. Install the new wiper blades on the wiper arm.
5. Tighten the nut and replace the cover.
What to Keep in Mind:
Different car models have different installation methods for wipers. Also, if replacing the entire wiper is too expensive, you can simply replace the rubber blade. This takes a little more time and patience, but it's definitely doable. Just take the old rubber piece off, insert the new one, and carefully reinstall it. A little practice will make this job much easier.
Cleaning the Air Conditioning Filter
We usually need to replace the air conditioning filter every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers. However, regular cleaning can extend its life. If your car has been used for more than 20,000 km, it's a good idea to replace it as the carbon inside may no longer be effective.
How to Do It:
1. First, locate the air conditioning filter.
2. Carefully remove the filter — don't force it!
3. Gently tap the filter to remove dust. If possible, use compressed air or a soft brush to clean it.
4. Once clean, reinstall the filter in the same position.
What to Keep in Mind:
Be gentle when removing or installing the filter because it's usually close to electronic components. A little too much force might cause damage. Also, pay attention to any rubber seals or components when reinstalling, as you don't want to damage them.
Changing Engine Oil
Changing your engine oil is another job that sounds more complicated than it really is, but it's one that can save you money in the long run. Ideally, you should change your oil every 5,000 km or 3 months, but if you drive aggressively or in extreme conditions, consider doing it more often.
How to Do It:
1. Lift your car with a jack and remove the engine's oil cap.
2. Go under the car and locate the oil drain plug.
3. Carefully unscrew the plug, letting the oil drain out into a container.
4. Once the oil is drained, remove the old oil filter using a wrench.
5. Install the new oil filter and pour in new oil.
6. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more if necessary.
What to Keep in Mind:
When selecting engine oil, make sure it matches the engine's requirements in terms of viscosity and quality. Always use high-quality oil to ensure your engine stays well-lubricated and performs optimally. Also, always check the oil level after filling it and be careful not to overfill.
Replacing a Fuse
Fuses are vital to keeping your electrical system in check. A blown fuse might cause some of your car's electrical components to stop working, like your lights or radio. Replacing a fuse is simple, but it's crucial to choose the right one!
How to Do It:
1. Turn off all electrical components and switch the ignition to the “LOCK” position.
2. Locate the fuse box, which is usually beneath the dashboard or near the engine.
3. Find the blown fuse and replace it with one of the same amperage.
4. Make sure the new fuse fits snugly and that you're using the correct amperage.
What to Keep in Mind:
It's important to replace the fuse with one of the correct amperage. Using a fuse that's too small won't protect your electrical system, while a fuse that's too large can cause damage to the system or even start a fire. Don't try to fix a blown fuse with copper wire or any makeshift solutions!
Replacing Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are essential for your engine's performance, especially in cold weather when it's harder for your engine to start. If your spark plugs are worn, it can affect fuel efficiency and engine power.
How to Do It:
1. Disconnect the ignition wires.
2. Mark each spark plug's location so you can easily replace them in the right order.
3. Use a spark plug wrench to remove the old spark plugs.
4. Install the new spark plugs and reconnect the wires.
What to Keep in Mind:
Be extra careful when removing and installing spark plugs. You want to avoid letting any dust or debris fall into the cylinder. It's also vital to maintain the right gap between the electrodes to ensure proper combustion.
DIY car maintenance isn't as hard as it sounds! By handling these basic tasks, not only will you save money, but you'll also learn more about how your car works. However, keep in mind that some tasks, like replacing the timing belt or brake pads, require a lot more expertise. When in doubt, it's always best to consult a professional to avoid causing more damage.
Give these DIY tasks a go during your next free time — it'll not only save you some cash, but it'll also give you a sense of accomplishment! Let us know if you have any questions, and don't forget to keep your car in top condition for both safety and performance!
