Going to a mechanic for car repairs can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For this reason, more car owners have taken an interest in doing their own repairs at home. While there are some things that will definitely require an expert, there are a lot of things that you can do yourself. If this is something you'd like to do, it can end up saving you money while helping you learn more about your vehicle. Below are a few considerations to make before getting started.
What You Can Do
- Oil Change
- Change Spark Plugs
- Replace Headlights
- Replace Windshield Wipers
- Replace Air Filter
- Fix Chipped Windshield
- Replace Battery
- Replace Brake Pads
- Install Truck Bed Liner
- Patch Dents
- Fix Seat Tears
These are just a few of the things you can do yourself from the haven of your own garage.
Where To Find Resources
If you're not already familiar with the inner workings of your car, you'll need to learn as much as you can before getting your hands dirty. Fortunately, with the internet, there are plenty of resources available, but you do need to know where to look. As OnlineAutoRepair.net points out, you can spend a lot of time searching for answers and still not find the right information, especially if your repair requires more specific knowledge.
Before you get started on any project, make sure you have done all of your research. Manuals and professional help sites may cost a little money, but they will save you a lot of grief, since you won’t have to worry about accidentally making a mistake. If you're worried about the money, there are usually options available to make the initial investment more feasible. For instance, veterans have rates available to them that ease financial situations. There are likely similar loan rates available for people in other circumstances. Or you can find assistance from family or friends.
Regardless of your situation, there are ways to find the resources if you need them. Just keep looking.
Preparing Your Garage
In order to do home car and truck repairs, your garage needs to be relatively clean. Clutter is only going to get in your way and can decrease your safety. Your garage doesn't have to be spotless, however, the floor should be clear and you should have a place for your tools. Some of the tools and pieces of equipment you'll want to get started include:
- Work Light: With this, you'll be able to see in the dark and in dark space, such as underneath your car.
- Mechanic Socket Set: A set will come with various sizes of sockets so you can work on any area of your car.
- Car Jack: A heavy duty car jack will lift your car when you need to work underneath it.
- Creeper: In addition to keeping your back clean, a creeper will allow you to wheel around underneath your car to get work done more quickly.
- Wrenches: Traditional, torque, and impact wrenches will save you time and are necessary to do many repair jobs.
- Drip Pan: Don't let fluids from your car drip onto you or the floor. With a drip pan, they'll be caught and can be disposed of properly.
- Basic car care supplies: Keeping you car looking nice should be number one. Polish, car shampoo, and wax are all staples that you should always have on hand. You should also look into interior car care products so you feel as good inside your car as it looks outside.
