But, at the end of the day, staying on top of regular care significantly reduces the likelihood of needing to pay thousands of dollars - or worse, being stranded on the side of the road. Sometimes major repairs for your transmission, engine or electrical system are inevitable, no matter how diligent you are with daily maintenance. Unfortunately, when it comes to this maintenance, it’s best to leave it to the pros. Vehicle technology has come a long way over the last few decades, making it more difficult to complete oil changes and other traditionally routine DIY tasks from home. Many of these tasks can be completed with minimal tools and expertise. The good news is that quite a bit of regular maintenance and care doesn’t require a degree from Universal Technical Institute. While most of us rely on cars and trucks for everyday use, few of us are genuine auto experts. Hiring a MechanicĪ Regular Vehicle Maintenance Plan Prevents Costly Repairs
When you refit, ensure you turn the filter to tighten it gently and smoothly, having put a smear of oil on the O-ring seal.
You’ll then need to swap the filter, which may require a specific tool or a large socket, so check you have everything you need before starting. Refit the plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s recommended torque setting using a torque wrench. You’ll need to discard the old oil correctly at a household recycling centre, never down the drain. Place an oil drip tray underneath and remove the plug using the correct size socket to allow the old oil to flow out. Locate the sump plug, a bolt that’s usually located at the lowest point of the engine. Jack up your car and rest it on axle stands in the locations outlined in the owner’s manual never work under a car that’s only supported by a jack. To change your oil, run the car to warm, but not hot. Even so, some main dealer parts departments offer surprisingly good deals on lubricants and oil filters it is always worth enquiring. Buying branded oil from a motor factor could save you money while not scrimping on quality. The biggest challenge is selecting the correct oil, so never deviate from the manufacturer’s specifications. Regular oil and filter changes remain vital to engine longevity.
But, some vehicles (notably, certain Mercedes models) require diagnostic equipment to calibrate the engine computer afterwards, so check precisely what your car needs before starting work.
You’ll need to locate the airbox, prise off the clips with a screwdriver, lift out the old filter and drop the new one back in. Ten minutes and a screwdriver may be all you need. Perhaps the easiest DIY task is replacing an air filter, which can reduce fuel consumption. EVs and hybrids require specialist attention due to their potentially lethal high-voltage systems. Even so, you should research your vehicle’s needs carefully and be honest about your capabilities. Modern cars can still be serviced from home by more experienced owners. Tackling more advanced car servicing yourself