All posts tagged DYI auto repair

Car Repairs: Six Things You Can Fix On Your Own

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/06/29 in Auto Repair with Comments Off on Car Repairs: Six Things You Can Fix On Your Own

While it may be tempting to have your local mechanic perform all of your car’s maintenance, this really isn’t needed. There are plenty of things even a total novice should be able to do competently. This can help you save money. It can also help you learn more about how your automobile works. Below are six things you can fix on your own.

Drive Belt

At some point in your car’s lifespan, it’s likely that the drive belt will break or become so worn that it’s become faulty. You’ll know if your car starts squealing when you try to start it. Thankfully, replacing it isn’t too difficult. All you need is a new belt, a screwdriver, a wrench, a socket and ratchet.

Battery

Car batteries do not last forever. Eventually they die. It may even happen from simply leaving the lights on in your car overnight. If jump starting the battery doesn’t work, replacing it is thankfully one of the easiest repair jobs a car owner can do.

Alternator

If your battery isn’t at fault for your car not working and your engine refusing to turn, it’s probably the alternator. The alternator is a component that works together with the battery to supply power to the electric components of your car. Thankfully, replacing it is easy enough to do on your own. You can get the help of friends or find instructional videos online to help if you’ve never done it before.

Brake Pads

Replacing brake pads is something most drivers assume must be done by a mechanic. However, with enough care, you can properly replace your own brake pads. Just insure that it isn’t actually the rotor that needs replacement when you hear your breaks grinding.

A Coolant Leak

A coolant leak in the exterior of your car can also be fixed by a driver without the assistance of a mechanic. If you notice a pool of liquid under your car’s exterior, chances are there is a crack or hole in an exterior hose. Replace the hose, but be careful not to burn yourself. It could be hot.

A Flat Tire

It’s common knowledge that you can replace a flat tire on your own. However, not all people are actually competent enough to do so. Practice replacing a tire with a spare. That way, you’ll be able to do so if you do get a flat out on the road someday.

Overall, you should be learning as much about your vehicle as possible. Learning how to perform basic repairs properly can increase your car’s health via proper maintenance, as well as your safety out on the road. It’s also more cost-efficient to do repairs on your own. Find quality shops like Arnold Motor Supply for parts you need to take care of your car repairs and get back on the road.

Six Risks Of DIY Auto Repairs, And How Make Sure You Fix The Problem

by Anita Ginsburg on 2015/03/04 in Auto Repair with Comments Off on Six Risks Of DIY Auto Repairs, And How Make Sure You Fix The Problem

There is a fascination among car owners to “do-it-yourself-and-save-money” on car repairs. Unfortunately, not everyone is mechanically inclined or can follow a mechanic’s guide. Specialized tools may be required such as torque wrenches, impact wrenches, lifts and more. Some automotive systems should not be considered DIY projects if the owner has no formal mechanical training. There are six basic risks of DIY projects and how you can fix the problem.

The Transmission Is Not A DIY Project

Transmissions require specialized tools for all the little rings, bits and pieces. All the pieces must go together just right and hooked up to the drive train and engine perfectly. If not, the least that can happen is the car stops shifting or moving forward on the road, requiring a tow. At the worst, the transmission can fall apart in pieces inside or drop off the vehicle in front of everyone. Avoid transmission problems by having a professional shop periodically inspect and make any needed repairs.

Parts Cannot Be Substituted

Car engines and systems are built with specific parts. An engine may be used by the manufacturer in several different makes and models of cars. This might give the impression that parts can be substituted from one car to another. Using the wrong parts can seriously damage or destroy your engine. Only use parts made for your car’s make and model. You can find good deals on used auto parts to save money, say the experts at Mike’s Auto Towing.

DIY AC Recharge Kits

This is the second car system that is not a DIY project. DIY auto HVAC recharge kits do not remove the old refrigerant, the kit adds new refrigerant on top of old. This is the same as pouring new oil in the crankcase without removing the old oil first. Refrigerant leaks can occur, contaminants can enter the system and worst of all, if the new refrigerant is different than the old, serious chemical reactions can occur. This system is best left in the hands of professionals.

Windshield Repair

Many DIY windshield repair kits are available on the market today. The resins used can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some resins only coat the problem instead of fixing the problem. The repair may not hold up to travel on the road, and your insurance company might not cover the cost of a DIY repair.

Brake Repairs

Unless you have formal training to work on a car’s brakes, do not attempt it. This is another system that has to be assembled perfectly in order to work. The untrained eye cannot spot worn or broken parts. It is best to take your car to a professional to have the brakes inspected, maintained or repaired.

Alignment

Specialized equipment is needed to align a car’s tires to keep it moving safely down the road. DIY adjustments can throw your car’s alignment off so badly that your tires, wheel hub and brakes could sustain damage.

While it makes sense to do some DIY repairs to save money, the best policy is to leave delicate systems and specific repairs to the professionals. It might seem expensive, but a safe car is far better than a broken down or unsafe one.