Auto Repair Tasks You Can Do On Your Own

Car maintenance can initially seem slightly intimidating, but you’ll soon find yourself enjoying the process. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll want to try more advanced techniques. Here are some quick fixes you can try yourself:

Replace the Wiper Blades

A dirty wiper blade can be a sign that it’s time to replace the blades. Press the washer button and see if the blades wipe clean. When assembling new blades, follow the instructions given on the package. Be sure to hold the wiper arm firmly when removing the old blade. If it slips away from you, it can hit the windshield hard enough to crack it.

Shake the PCV valve

The PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valve is usually on top of the engine and connected to a vacuum hose. Some late-model cars don’t have this valve. But if your car does, pull it out during every other oil change. Slide the vacuum hose off the valve and unscrew it. Then, try this- Shake the valve. If it makes a clicking sound, it’s in good shape. If not, get a new one.

Replace the Engine Air Filter

This is one of the uncomplicated car repairs you can do. Check your engine air filter and replace it if necessary. Remove the retainers and take out the old filter. Then hold a shop light behind it to see how much light passes through. Replace the filter if it blocks 50% or more of the light.

Replace Gas Lift Cylinders

Why pay someone else to fix a leaky gas lift cylinder when you can do it yourself? Visit any auto parts store and buy new lifts. Let someone help you hold the liftgate or hood while you replace the lifts. Most styles can be unscrewed with a metric socket set. There are also ball and socket style connectors that use a spring clip to hold them in place. To disengage the spring clip, push a small flat blade screwdriver between it and the cylinder. Then pull on the cylinder until you detach it from its ball stud.

Replace Non-Headlight Bulbs

The license plate, side marker, and fog light bulbs are accessed by removing their retaining screws and then prying off the lens. To remove a bulb, pull it straight out. Then push the bulb into its socket until you hear/feel it click. When you install a new bulb, handle it with gloves or hold it with a paper towel so that skin oils aren’t deposited on the thin glass—that can cause premature bulb failure. Once you reinstall the lens, your work is done.