According to those interesting and entertaining Cartalk guys on National Public Radio, you need to consider three things before getting mechanically involved with the upkeep of your vehicle:
- If it could be potentially dangerous, it is probably better left to a mechanic.
- If you could do damage to your vehicle, it is probably better left to a mechanic.
- If you will need expensive tools or equipment, it is probably better left to a mechanic.
It is very important to always read the vehicle’s owner’s manual before starting any vehicle maintenance project on your own. That said, it is entirely possible for us non-mechanically inclined vehicle owners to do some of the routine and non-technical vehicle maintenance tasks ourselves to save money. So what are some things we can do that are practical and performable?
Air Filter
Check your owner’s manual to see how often the air filter should be changed. If it looks dirty, or if your vehicle seems to have less power, then change it. It is located under the hood and relatively easy to access and change. Auto supply stores have reference books you can use to look up what’s needed for your make and model vehicle.
Battery
It is important to keep battery terminals clean. If your battery develops a white powder-like build up, you can clean that off using an old toothbrush with a 50/50 water and baking soda mixture cleaning solution. If your battery has removable covers, then you can check the water level and add water if needed. Many batteries are sealed, maintenance free, and the water level cannot be checked.
Fluids
The oil level can be checked by using the dip stick, but only when the engine is not running. Oil level is not accurately measurable when the engine is running because the oil is circulating in the engine. After you turn off the engine, it will take a while for the oil to drain back into the oil pan so you can measure it. Let the engine cool off so you don’t risk burning yourself on a hot engine. Always check the owner’s manual to determine what type oil to use for your vehicle. Clean off and use the dip stick to check the oil level as you add oil, so you don’t put too much oil in your vehicle. An oil change, for $25-$30, is one of the things that is probably better left to a mechanic if you don’t have the equipment to lift your car safely, drain and collect the used oil and recycle it. Besides, when you get your oil changed in a shop, you can ask them to check and top off your coolant and windshield washer solvent, which they will frequently do for free as part of the oil change service. Your oil will need changing every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on your vehicle and the way you drive. It is also important to have the vehicle’s chassis lubricated regularly, probably with the oil change. Check your owner’s manual.
Coolant level can be checked visually, inside the engine compartment. Coolant can be added to the coolant reservoir bottle, which has a small tube connecting it to the radiator. Always check your vehicle’s manual to see what type of coolant is recommended for your vehicle and how to mix it with water. Do not open the radiator cap because that lets air into the cooling system, which can cause it to overheat. Be careful not to add coolant to your windshield washer reservoir by mistake!
Windshield washer solvent is easy to add to the plastic reservoir inside the engine compartment. The solvent does a good job of cleaning the windshield, and it will not freeze. Do not use water. Water can freeze and crack the plastic container or possibly damage the sprayer. Be careful not to add windshield washer solvent to your coolant reservoir by mistake!
Fuses
If something electrical is not working in your car, then check the owner’s manual to locate the fuse for that item. You can remove and replace the fuse by yourself. Again, auto supply stores have reference books you can use to look up what’s needed for your make and model vehicle.
Lights
Headlights, brake lights and dome or reading lights in your vehicle can burn out. Remove the bulb that is not working and take it to an auto parts store for replacement.
Tires
It is important to check the condition and inflation of your tires regularly, at least once monthly. Check your owner’s manual or the sticker on the inside of the driver’s side door for the proper tire pressure for your tires and monitor the pressure to keep your tires properly inflated. Proper inflation makes your tires last longer and improves gas mileage, vehicle performance and safety. Overinflated tires will lose tread in the center. Underinflated tires will wear down on the outside edges. Your tires probably have built-in wear gauges on the tread, which a tire store employee or mechanic can point out and explain to you. If your wear gauges indicate that you need new tires, always buy the same size tire that originally came with your vehicle and purchase steel belted radial tires for durability and best performance. Having the tires rotated on a regular basis, with every other oil change or every 6,000 miles, can greatly prolong the life of the tires. Check what the owner’s manual recommends.
Wiper Blades
New windshield wiper blades can be purchased at any auto parts store, and they are easy to install. Auto supply stores have reference books you can use to look up what’s needed for your make and model vehicle, or remove the passenger-side blade and take it to the store for matching.
Warranty
Check your owner’s manual and be sure you follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle. Continue to follow the maintenance schedule even after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. Regular routine vehicle maintenance is a good way to save money by preventing and avoiding more costly repairs.
References:
www.cartalk.com
www.ladiesstartyourengines.net
www.savingsnut.com/carrepairs.html