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It's not always necessary to see the mechanic in order to take care of your car. With a bit of know-how and some tools you can handle essential car maintenance at home, and here are some practical tips to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly.
1. Check engine oil
Taking a proactive approach to your engine's health is as simple as a five-minute routine that can potentially save you from major issues down the road. Most manufacturers recommend checking your oil level with a cold engine (one that you can comfortably touch). However, specific instructions for your model can be found in your owner’s manual.
Begin the process by parking your vehicle on a level surface. Armed with a clean rag or paper towel, pop the hood, and locate the oil dipstick, usually identifiable by its yellow or orange top. Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and pull it out again to check the oil level between the markings on the metal. If it's below the recommended level, add the specified oil mentioned in the manual after removing the oil cap. If the dipstick shows no oil, it's crucial to add oil immediately and schedule a professional inspection. Keep an eye out for grainy or milky oil, as this signals the need for a trip to the repair shop.
2. Check tire pressure
Under-inflated tires are not only unsafe but can also cause uneven tread wear and reduce your vehicle's efficiency. Perform a monthly check of all four tires using a pressure gauge, ensuring they match the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. This information can be found in your owner’s manual or on the information sticker located on the driver’s side door or where the door meets the frame.
For the most accurate reading, check your tire pressure in the morning or when the car hasn't been driven for a few hours. Driving generates heat, which can mask low tire pressure. Use a tire inflator at home or at your local gas station to bring any low tires up to the recommended level.
3. Inspect belts and hoses
Incorporate a quick inspection of your hoses and belts into your routine while checking the oil, especially when the engine is cool. Squeeze hoses to ensure they feel firm rather than crunchy. Look for cracks and fluid seeping out at connection points. Check belts for fraying and glazing. When the engine is running, pay attention to any squealing or vibrations. If any issues are detected don't hesitate to take your vehicle to a professional for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs.
4. Replace wiper blades
Ensuring clear visibility is crucial for safe driving, and one component contributing to this is often overlooked – wiper blades. It's recommended to install new wiper blades every six to 12 months. Measure both windshield wiper blades or refer to the vehicle's manual for the correct sizes.
To install new blades, lift the wiper arms off the windshield and cover the glass with a towel or blanket to prevent potential damage. Detailed instructions can be found on the back of the package, or if you're dealing with an unusual blade style, referring to online resources like YouTube can be beneficial.
5. Add washer fluid
Proper visibility depends on having enough washer fluid, especially considering different climates. Avoid using plain water, as it can freeze and damage the reservoir. Lift the hood and find the reservoir for the washer fluid. Open it, and pour washer fluid in until it reaches the fill line. Using a funnel or creating one from the spout half of a milk jug can make this process easier for those with unsteady hands.
6. Change light bulbs
Critical for safe and defensive driving, functioning headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are often neglected until they fail. Many of these lights are easy to change, often requiring just a Phillips screwdriver. Refer to your owner's manual for replacement instructions, and if needed, consult vehicle-specific YouTube tutorials for a visual guide. Not all bulbs are the same, so be prepared to remove the bulb to find the number listed on it and match it up with the correct one at the parts store. For newer LED bulbs, professional assistance is recommended for accurate diagnosis.
7. Clean the battery terminals and tighten connections on a regular basis
Maintaining clean and secure battery connections is vital for your vehicle’s ability to start and the overall lifespan of the battery. Most vehicles have a battery under the hood, but if that's not the case, your owner’s manual will guide you on accessing it. Examine the terminals and the two metal posts on the battery's top or side. If there's white or blue “dust” on or around the terminals, the battery may be leaking acid. While this doesn’t necessarily mean immediate replacement, it signals potential issues. Wear latex gloves, use a wire brush to remove the dust, and check the terminal connections to ensure they don’t move when wiggling the wires. Tighten them with an open-ended wrench if necessary.
8. Jumpstart a dead battery
Before attempting to jump-start your car, ensure your battery terminals are clean and the connections are robust (as mentioned in number 7). If everything is in order, consult your owner's manual for specific instructions, as some manufacturers advise against jump-starting. To proceed, attach the positive (often red) clamp of the cables to the dead battery's positive terminal post. Connect the second positive clamp to the working vehicle’s positive terminal while both cars are turned off. Then, attach the negative clamp (typically black) to the negative terminal on the working battery. Finally, connect the remaining negative clamp to a non-painted metal surface on the main engine block of the car that won’t start. Start the working car first, and after a minute or two, start the other car. Disconnect the clamps in reverse order, taking care to prevent any of the clamps from touching
9. Replace the cabin filter
For vehicles manufactured after 2002, there’s a good chance that the air passes through a cabin filter every time you use the fan, air conditioner, or heater. Refer to your owner’s manual for the replacement interval, but if you have allergies or have recently driven through wildfire smoke, consider replacing it sooner. In most vehicles, the filter is located behind the glove box, and it’s usually a straightforward swap requiring few, if any, tools. Expose the filter compartment by following your manual or utilizing resources like YouTube, lift the latches, remove the faceplate, and replace the filter.
10. Replace the engine air filter
Air is as essential as fuel when you hit the gas pedal, and the engine air filter plays a crucial role in ensuring the air entering the engine is free from potentially damaging particles. Generally needing replacement every 20,000 to 30,000 miles (refer to your manual), the engine air filter is easily accessible in most vehicles. Locate the engine air filter box under the hood, undo the clips or screws along the top, carefully pull back the cover, remove the old filter, place the new one in the same orientation, and close the cover while tightening the clips or screws.
By diligently incorporating these comprehensive DIY car maintenance practices into your routine, you not only ensure a longer and healthier life for your vehicle but also save money on potential repairs. Regular checks and timely replacements contribute to a smoother and safer driving experience.