Replacing the battery is a simple process that can be done with minimal tools and preparation. I spoke with Richard Reina, CarID's training director, and several mechanics, including a family member with more than 20 years of experience repairing cars, to find out some of the easiest car repairs you can do at home. The battery is by far the easiest of all DIY repairs. Most batteries have a date stamped on them, so you can easily find out when it's time to replace it.
If you don't, you could be stranded with a dead battery, which is dangerous for many reasons. Oil changes are also relatively easy. You'll need a racket, a wrench and a funnel, plus the spare parts which you can find on CARiD or similar sites. There are also lots of instructional videos and fact sheets that will help you every step of the way.
Buy a good quality oil filter and the best oil you can afford from your local supplier. In addition to the cat holders and a connector, you'll need an oil filter wrench and a drain tray. You only have to buy them once and they will last you for decades. As Richard Reina points out, the days of oil changes every 3,000 miles are behind us.
Today, vehicles can often go 10,000 miles between oil changes. Spark plugs are small devices inside the cylinder that create sparks to ignite the gas and ultimately power the vehicle. They wear out every 10,000 miles or so, but replacing them is quite easy. Brakes are one of the most important elements of your vehicle to ensure your safety while driving.
Many car accidents are due to brake failure, so it's important to keep them in perfect condition. Fortunately, changing brake pads can be as easy as changing a flat tire. Flat tires are one of the most common causes of car problems and changing them doesn't have to be a big deal. It could even be a lifesaving skill!These are just some of the basic car repairs you should know about. With preparation and help from instructional videos and fact sheets, you can save time and money on repairs.
