Basic Car Maintenance Is Simpler Than You Think

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DIY

Nina Russin

May 07, 2018

Nina Russin

May 07, 2018

The biggest hurdle that prevents many car owners from performing their own basic maintenance tasks is not skill. It’s not lack of knowledge or time. What keeps owners from doing their own simple repairs and upkeep—let’s admit it—is lack of confidence. That can be overcome with a little encouragement and a few inexpensive tools. Go for it!

“Cars today are easier to service than ever,” said Mike Forsythe, the vice-president of editorial for Haynes - opens in new window or tab., the car manual publishers. “Most DIY jobs, such as fluid changes and brake pad replacement, require no special tools or skills. If for no other reason, consider starting to do a few simple car maintenance tasks to save money.

Start Simple

Even something as basic as replacing the wiper blades - opens in new window or tab. costs about half as much if you do it yourself, saving as much as $50 compared to having the dealership do the work. (See: It’s Time for a Windshield Wiper Tune-Up - opens in new window or tab..)

Most late model cars have labeled reservoirs for fluids such as windshield washer fluid - opens in new window or tab., oil, and coolant with the “fill-to” levels indicated on the reservoir, making it easy for owners to check themselves. (See: Regularly Check These Four Car Fluids - opens in new window or tab..)

Keeping an eye on your car’s air filter - opens in new window or tab. and replacing or cleaning it when the filter gets dirty not only saves money on parts and labor but improves fuel economy as well. A dirty air filter forces the engine to work harder and can lead to more expensive repairs down the road. (See: Air Filter Change 101 - opens in new window or tab..)

Checking tire pressure also yields big savings, since underinflated tires wear out faster and decrease gas mileage. According to FuelEconomy.gov, a site managed by the U.S. Department of Energy, maintaining proper tire inflation pressures can increase fuel economy by up to three percent, with significant savings for drivers traveling an average of 15,000 miles-per-year. (See: Tire Pressure Tips - opens in new window or tab..)

Some of these tasks require a simple toolkit, but a one-time small investment in basic tools will return dividends for many years. According to Forsythe, a simple toolkit consists of a socket and wrench set - opens in new window or tab., C-clamp - opens in new window or tab., tire pressure gauge - opens in new window or tab., battery cleaning tool - opens in new window or tab., oil filter wrench - opens in new window or tab., oil drain pan - opens in new window or tab., and jack stands - opens in new window or tab.. With these items and an appropriate repair manual, you will be equipped for oil and air filter changes, headlamp bulb replacements, tire pressure checks, and battery cleaning and replacement.

What applies to basic mechanical maintenance also translates to the car’s appearance. Put together a detailing kit - opens in new window or tab. and start washing and waxing your car at home.

The Next Baby Step: The Engine

After gaining confidence with tasks like changing fluids and maintaining tire pressure, you can begin to gain some understanding of engine operation. One way to start is by pulling trouble codes from the car’s onboard computer using an inexpensive automotive scan tool - opens in new window or tab.. The tool plugs into the onboard diagnostic terminal under the dash. It’s not any more difficult than plugging a USB cable into the port to play music from your phone on the car’s audio system.

Once the tool is plugged in, turn the ignition to “on” but don’t start the engine. The tool will provide prompts for information it needs, such as the car’s VIN, make and model, necessary to read any trouble codes stored in the onboard computer. Using a scan tool can arm you with the information you need if and when you need your car to a licensed professional mechanic. (See: What Does the Check Engine Light Mean? - opens in new window or tab.)

About the author

Nina Russin

Nina Russin is an ASE certified automotive technician and writer who has been covering the automotive industry for 30 years. She was a weekly automotive columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times for 10 years, and a contributor to AutoWeek, Automobile Quarterly, Collectible Automobile, Cycle World, and AAA Arizona Highroads Magazine. Russin is co-founder and president of Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year, an annual competition.

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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.