Auto repairs that you can do yourself

 

 

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Car repairs are often expensive and usually happen at the most inconvenient of times. Here are a few inexpensive repairs that you can do yourself.

 

Air filter replacement

 

Car performance can be affected in many ways by a plugged air filter. Changing it is easy and cheap and, once the new one is in place, your car’s power and gas mileage will be increased.

 

 

 

Oil change

 

As long as certain precautions are met, changing your oil yourself is relatively easy. Make sure that you perform the oil change several hours after last driving your car since the engine can be very hot. You will need to have on hand the following products, which may be a higher cost initially but most are reusable and need to be purchased only once: ratchet, oil filter, wrench, funnel, new oil, oil container, and oil filter.

 

 

 

Windshield wipers

 

Old windshield wipers are a nuisance that border on dangerous in bad weather such as rain or snow. Changing them is quick and easy and, at most, requires the use of a screwdriver.

 

 

 

Car batteries

 

While it’s pretty clear you have a dead batter when your car doesn’t start, you can measure voltage ahead of time and replace the battery before it goes completely dead. Use a voltmeter to check the charge and anything lower than 9.7 volts should be replaced. Also, remember to use protective gear such as eyewear and gloves when you do replace it to prevent any acid burns from old batteries.

 

 

 

Blown fuses

 

If your headlights are out, it’s always good practice to check to make sure it’s not a blown fuse. Check the car’s fuse box to determine whether or not it’s the fuse or the bulb that needs replacing. Replacing them will involve one of three types of fuses: glass tube, blade or ceramic. A quick read through your owner’s manual will tell you which to purchase for your car.

 

 

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