We’ve all been there before: we put off preventative car maintenance because life’s busy schedule gets in the way. While it feels like it takes more time than it should, taking care of your car on a regular basis will save you money in the long run. When it comes to car repairs, the majority should be left to the experts, but there are a few DIY car repairs that you can do yourself to make sure your vehicle stays as good as new.
In this blog, we’ve listed a few of the most common ones that often get ignored!
1. Changing wiper blades
Changing your car’s wiper blades is an easy repair to make, but these little guys can break at any time. They’re also a cheap repair, and you should change them before they have a chance to wear out. This one takes some doing and a little bit of strength to do it, but it can be done without having to visit a mechanic!
2. Replacing your battery and alternator
The battery is likely the first thing that comes to mind when people talk about car repairs that are easy to do yourself. Batteries don’t last forever, so keep an eye on your battery lifespan — especially if your vehicle has been sitting for a few months. If you notice that your battery is not holding any power at all or that your lights are dimmer than usual, it’s likely time to get a new one.
3. Replacing your brake pads
A brake job is a little more tricky and requires you to jack up your car, but replacing the pads is fairly easy. Some people wait and put off changing them until they’ve worn down way into the metal, but it’s much better for your safety to replace them when they start to show signs of wear.
4. Cleaning your windshield
While it may be tempting to just ignore the stains on your windshield, leaving them there can actually damage your wipers and headlights. This is especially true in the hot summer season when the heat makes stains on your windshield build up quickly.
5. Pumping your tyres
If you’re in the habit of regularly checking your car’s tyres, it’s a bit of a no-brainer to pump them up every once in awhile. It’s a cheap, quick fix that is worth doing when you notice that one or more of your tyres might be low on air pressure.
6. Engine Oil checks
Car engines are the lifeblood of your vehicle and it’s a good idea to check the oil regularly on your own. Once a month is sufficient for most vehicles, but if you use your car every day, then do so more regularly.
Out of sight, out of mind is the norm with many of these DIY car repairs. Unfortunately, these tasks don’t get done enough and can cause big problems down the road. Make a habit of doing these DIY car repairs on the regular to ensure you stay safe on the road!
