Maintaining your car extends the usable life of the vehicle, but it can add up to big bucks over time. Instead of paying for labor per hour in addition to overpriced parts at the dealership, you can do much of this work yourself. Here are a few ways you can save big by doing your own car maintenance:
1. Change Your Own Oil
This is an easy way to keep your engine running smoothly and avoid car trouble. Pick up the filters and fluid at your local parts store along with an oil filter wrench and a container for the used oil. Depending on whether you use traditional oil or synthetic, you can save 50 percent or more in just a few minutes. Greasing the rear end is a part of most oil changes performed in a professional auto shop. If you’re not up to this task, alternate DIY oil changes with paid service.
2. Maintain Your Own Tires
It won’t cost you a thing to rotate your own tires, but the bill at your local garage can be $50 or more. While you’re at it, check your tire pressure. A tire gauge only costs a few dollars, and many gas stations will let you have as much compressed air as you need for free. Both of these habits will extend the life of your tires and improve your gas mileage to save even more.
3. Change Your Own Battery
This one’s a trick! No one needs to change their own battery. Almost every auto parts store will check out your old battery and install it for free, if you need to buy one. They can also tell you if your battery is fine, but you need a new alternator or solenoid. Remember, today’s batteries don’t give out slowly like old ones; they tend to go all at once. If the expiration date is approaching, do yourself a favor and buy a new one. Completing this maintenance task can save you a few hundred dollars when you factor in the labor cost, an inflated price on a new battery at a repair shop, and calling a cab when your car won’t start.
Of course, these are just three of the quickest and easiest ways to get your feet wet in the DIY car maintenance game. If you’d like to dive right in, purchase a repair manual for your car. Before you know it, you’ll be able to replace headlights and change brake pads like a pro!
