10 Basic Car Repairs to Know: Don’t Be Stranded On The Side Of The Road

You rely on your car to get you to work, school, and your appointments. But what happens when your car breaks down, and you don’t know how to fix it? Nobody wants to be stranded on the side of the road. But, if you know a few basic car repairs, you can avoid that nightmare scenario. Learning basic car repairs can help you avoid being stranded on the side of the road and can also save you money. Here are 10 basic car repairs to know:

1. Changing brake pads

Replacing brake pads alone is a basic car repair that can be done at home with little to no experience. The benefits of replacing it are two-fold: first, you can save money on labor costs by doing the work yourself; second, you can be sure that the job is done correctly and safely. Replacing it is not a difficult task, but there are a few things you need to know before getting started. First, ensure you have the correct tools and supplies; second, follow all safety precautions; and third, take time to do the job right.

When should I Replace the Brake pads?

Brake pads wear down over time and must be replaced periodically. When your car starts making a high-pitched squealing noise, it’s time to replace it. Most mechanics recommend replacing the pads every 30,000 miles to keep your brakes in good working order.

How Can I Replace the Brake pads?

Brake pads are an essential part of a car’s braking system. They are what create the friction necessary to stop the vehicle. Over time, those wear down and need to be replaced. Replacing them is not difficult, but it should be done carefully.

The first step is to put both vehicles in neutral and disconnect the negative terminal from the battery. This will prevent any electrical shocks.

Next, locate the brake caliper and remove the bolts that hold it. Be careful not to lose any of the small parts or springs that may be attached to it. Once the caliper is removed, you can see the old ones.

To install the new ones, reverse the process you used to remove the old ones.

Once the new ones are in place, reattach the calipers and the wheels. Test the car to ensure the brakes are working properly before heading back on the road.

2. Replacing a headlight?

Regarding basic Car maintenance and repair, replacing a headlight is one of the easiest and most beneficial things you can do yourself. Not only will it save you money on labor costs, but it will also give you a sense of satisfaction knowing that you were able to fix your car by yourself.

The process is relatively simple and requires only a few tools you likely already have in your garage or toolbox. All you need is a screwdriver, a ratchet, and a new headlight. With these tools, you can easily remove the old headlight and replace it with the new one in just a few minutes.

When Should You Replace a headlight?

If your headlights are not shining as bright as they once did, or if one of them is burned out, it’s time to get a new headlight. Headlights should be replaced every three years because the bulb’s heat can damage the plastic lens over time.

How to Replace a headlight?

1. Replacing a headlight is as simple as anyone can do.

2. You will need to purchase a new headlight and then locate the unpainted metal surface on the back of the headlight.

3. Once you have located the unpainted metal surface, use a screwdriver to remove the oil drain plug of your car.

4. After the oil drain plug is removed, turn on the headlights and let them run for a few minutes.

5. This will allow the oil to drain from the headlight and allow you access to the back of the headlight.

6. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the headlight in place.

7. Remove the old headlight and then insert the new headlight into place.

8. Once the new headlight is in place, you can put the screws back.

9. Finally, use a screwdriver to replace the oil drain plug and tighten it with your hands until it is snug.

Now that the headlight and oil drain plug is replaced, you can drive your car.

3. Changing a Flat Tire.

If you are ever stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire, it’s a good idea to know how to change it. Even if you don’t know how to change a tire, many people are willing to help, so keep a spare tire and jack in your trunk, just in case. Here are some tips on changing a flat tire.

When should you Change a Tire?

Most people know how to change a tire but don’t know when. Here are some tips on when to change a tire.

If you have a flat tire, you should replace it as soon as possible. If you’re driving on a spare tire, you should drive slowly and avoid long distances. You should also inspect your tyres for wear and tear on a regular basis.

If you notice any bald spots or cracks, it’s time to change your tire. Even if there’s no visible damage, replacing your tires every few years is still a good idea. Old tires can lose their grip and cause accidents.

So when should you change your tires? If you have a flat, if they’re old, or if there’s any visible damage.

How To Change a Tire?

First, you’ll want to ensure you have the tools you need to change a tire. You’ll need a jack, a wrench to loosen the lug nuts, and another wrench, a socket, and a ratchet to remove them altogether. You should also have a good-condition spare tire. If you don’t have a spare, you can use a can of flat fixer (available at any auto parts store) to seal the tire’s hole temporarily.

Next, find a level spot on the ground to park your car. Put it in the park (or first gear if it’s a manual transmission) and set the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts with the first wrench, but don’t take them off yet.

Now it’s time to lift the car with the jack. Place the jack under the car and find a spot on one of the frame rails in front or back. You want to place it on a spot where you can see the jack’s lifting point (usually a yellow piece of plastic) sticking up through a hole in the frame. Use the jack handle to lift the car until it’s high enough that you can slide the jack under one of the tires. Place a block of wood or soft material, like a rag, on top of the tire next to where you want to put the jack. This prevents the jack from damaging your tire. Now place the lug wrench on the lug nut and gently loosen it. Take the jack out from under the car, and turn it around to slide it back under another tire. Use your feet to steady the jack when the car is jacked up a few inches. Remove one wheel at a time, and put it safely out of the way. Now you can remove the lug nuts and the wheel from the car. Replace the wheel and tighten your lug nuts as much as possible. Lower your car back down to the ground and remove the jack. Put it back in your trunk, and you’re ready to move on to the next tire.

4 Changing a fuse

Nearly every driver has been stranded on the road at one point or another. It’s always a frustrating experience, but it can be especially harrowing if you don’t know how to fix the problem.

When should you change a fuse?

One of the most common car problems is when a fuse is blown. If your dashboard lights suddenly go out, the fuse will likely blow and need to be replaced. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy repair to do on your own.

How to Change a fuse by Yourself?

If your car has ever blown a fuse, you know how frustrating it can be to be stranded on the road. Fuses protect your car’s electrical system from short circuits and other problems, but they can sometimes blow for no reason. Fortunately, changing a fuse is an easy repair that you can do yourself.

To change a fuse, start by finding the black clip on the positive terminal of your battery. This clip is usually located near the fuses. Once you’ve found the clip, use a pair of pliers to remove it. Then, use needle-nose pliers to remove the fuse that needs to be replaced.

Once you have the new fuse, simply insert it into the slot and replace the black clip.

5. Changing Car Oil.

A car is a significant investment, and you want to protect that investment by taking care of it. Caring for your car is knowing how to do essential maintenance and repairs. Changing the oil is one repair every car owner should know how to do.

Changing your car oil is not difficult and can save you money. It’s a good idea to learn how to do it so you can be prepared if you find yourself stranded on the side of the road with an empty oil tank.

When should you change the oil?

Changing your car’s oil every 3,000 miles or every three months is essential, whichever comes first. This information is usually found in the owner’s manual of your vehicle.

If you’re not sure when the last time the oil was changed, it’s best to err on the side of caution and go ahead and change it. Better to be safe than sorry!

How to change the car oil by Yourself?

When it comes to car maintenance, one of the most important things you can do is change your car oil. It may seem daunting, but with some know-how, it’s pretty easy. Plus, it’s a great way to save money. Here’s how to change the car oil by yourself:

1. Start by finding the right oil for your car. Check your owner’s manual or look online to find out what kind of oil is best for your particular model.

2. Once you have the right oil, open the hood and locate the oil filter. On most cars, it will be located near the front of the engine block.

3. To remove the old filter, unscrew it and then use a pair of pliers to pull it off. Be careful not to touch the dirty oil inside.

4. Take the new filter and spread it with your hands until it’s ready to accept the oil.

5. Next, pour in three quarts of new oil. 6. Carefully screw on the new filter, making sure not to get any oil on your hands or clothes.

7. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes.

8. Check the oil level to ensure you haven’t overfilled it.

9. If you have overfilled it, add some more oil until the level is correct.

10. Check the oil filter one more time to ensure it’s screwed on tight, and then you’re done.

6. Change your Car oil filter

Car maintenance and repair can be expensive, especially if you must take them to a mechanic. However, there are some basic auto repairs that you can learn to do yourself. Changing your car’s oil filter is one of them.

When should you change your oil Filter?

Generally, changing it every 5,000 miles or so is best. However, if you live in a particularly dusty area or do a lot of off-roading, you may need to change it more often.

Are you unsure when it was last time changed? It’s probably time to do it again. Better safe than sorry!

How to Change your Vehicle Oil Filter?

Locate the oil filter. It’s usually found on the engine block’s side. Once you’ve found it, unscrew the housing that holds the filter in place.

Remove the old filter and replace it with a new one. Make sure you screw the new filter in so it’s sealed properly.

Now, locate the oil drain plug. It’s usually located at the bottom of the engine block. Unscrew it and let the old oil drain out into a pan or container.

Screw the oil drain plug and replace your vehicle with new oil. Once you’ve done that, start your vehicle and let it run for a few minutes. This will allow the new oil to spread through the engine while running.

7. Changing your coolant

When your car overheats, it’s essential to know how to change the coolant yourself. This simple vehicle repair can be done in a few easy steps and save you from being stranded on the side of the road. Here’s why you should learn to change them by yourself:

1. It’s a relatively simple repair that anyone can learn to do.

2. It’s an integral part of regular maintenance that will help keep your car running correctly.

3. Doing it yourself can save money on expensive repairs or towing fees.

When you should change your car coolant?

Most carmakers recommend changing your car coolant every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. But if you frequently drive in dusty or sandy conditions, live in a very hot climate, or do a lot of towing, you might have to change it more often. You’ll know it’s time to change them when it looks dirty or rusty.

How to Change your car coolant by yourself?

1. Locate the radiator cap on your vehicle and remove it.

2. Find the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator and open it to drain the old one into a catch pan below.

3. Add the new one to the radiator. Be sure not to exceed the “Full” mark on your vehicle’s thermostat housing or overflow tank. 4. Replace the drain plug, refill the cap, and start your engine to check for leaks or overheating.

5. If all is well, turn off the engine and remove the radiator cap to allow any pressure to escape.

6. Fill your cooling system with water, adding a rust inhibitor if necessary.

7. Replace the cap, and you’re ready to go!

8. Replacing your Car battery

A car battery is an essential part of a vehicle as it helps to power up the engine. It is vital to know how to replace it yourself as it can be pretty expensive. The benefits of learning how to replace your battery by yourself include saving money, being prepared in an emergency, and feeling confident about your abilities.

Not everyone knows how to change a battery, and that’s okay. Many people are content to leave such things to professionals. But if you like to be prepared for anything life throws your way and save a little money while you’re at it, then learning how to change your car battery is a skill worth acquiring.

When Should You Replace a Battery?

If your vehicle battery is more than three years old, it’s time to start thinking about replacing it. It usually lasts between four and five years, so if yours is getting up in age, you’ll want to keep an eye on it.

If your car starts making a clicking noise when you turn the key, that’s a sign that the battery is losing power. If your headlights are dimming or flickering, that’s another sign that the battery is weakening.

If you notice either of these things, it’s time to take your car to a mechanic and have the battery checked out. If it needs to be replaced, don’t wait too long to do it – a dead battery can leave you stranded on the side of the road.

How to replace a car battery by Yourself?

If your battery dies, it can be a real pain. You may be stranded on the side of the road or have to pay a tow truck to come and get you. But there is no need to worry! With a bit of know-how, you can easily replace it yourself.

Here are the steps you’ll need to take:

1. Make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need a new battery, jumper cables, and a wrench.

2. Open up your hood and locate the battery. It will usually be in the front of the engine compartment.

3. Disconnect the negative (black) terminal first, then the positive (red) terminal. Make sure not to let the terminals touch each other, as this could cause a spark.

4. Replace the old battery with the new one. Be sure to connect the positive terminal first and then the negative terminal.

5. Start your car. If it does not start, try to charge your battery by letting it sit for about 15 minutes.

6. If your car starts, let it run for a few minutes. If it does not start after 15 minutes, you should call for a tow truck to take your car back to the shop where you got the new battery.

9. Replacing your Car Alternator

A car alternator is a device that helps power a vehicle’s electrical system while the engine is running. This is accomplished by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. The alternator is located at the front of the engine and is driven by a belt connected to the crankshaft.

One reason you should learn to replace car alternators by yourself is that it can be much cheaper than taking your car to a mechanic. You can save hundreds of dollars on labor costs if you know how to do it yourself. Additionally, if you know how to replace an alternator properly, you can avoid many common mistakes that mechanics make, which could lead to further damage to your car.

Finally, replacing an alternator yourself is not as difficult as it may sound. With patience and basic knowledge of cars, anyone can do it.

When to replace your car alternator?

When your car’s alternator fails, it’s essential to know when to replace it. Here are a few signs that your alternator needs to be replaced:

1. Your car’s battery is failing. If your car’s battery is dying quickly, it could be a sign that the alternator is not charging it properly.

2. Your car’s headlights are dimming. If your headlights are dimming or flickering, it could indicate that the alternator is failing.

3. Your car’s electrical system is failing. If your car’s electrical system fails, it could indicate that the alternator is not working correctly.

How to replace the car alternator by yourself?

Your car’s alternator is responsible for keeping the battery charged, so it’s essential to know how to replace it if it fails. You can save yourself time and money by replacing the alternator yourself.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

2. Remove the belt that drives the alternator.

3. Remove the bolts that hold the alternator in place.

4. Install the new alternator and reconnect the bolts and belt.

5. Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

10. Replacing Wiper Blades

If you’ve ever been caught in a rainstorm without functioning windshield wipers, you know how important they are. These are made of rubber and metal and attach to your car’s windshield via clips connecting to the positive battery terminal. Most cars have two wiper blades: one for the driver’s side of the windshield and one for the passenger’s side.

When to replace the Wiper Blades of your car?

If your car’s wipers are leaving streaks or skipping while in use, it may be time to replace the wiper blades. You can usually tell when those need to be replaced if you see cracks, fraying, or chunks missing from the rubber.

How to replace the Wiper Blades of your car?

If you’ve ever been caught in a storm without functioning windshield wipers, you know how important they are to your safety. Luckily, replacing them is a quick and easy fix you can do at home in just a few minutes. Here’s how:

1. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield. There will be a small tab or clip holding it in place. On some models, you may need to press down on this tab while lifting the arm.

2. Pull the blade away from the arm. It should come off quickly. If it’s stuck, look for a release tab that you may need to press before removing the blade.

3. Insert the new blade onto the arm, ensuring it’s positioned correctly. The curved edge of the blade should face the wiper arm.

4. Press the new blade onto the arm, ensuring it’s properly seated.

5. Close the wiper arm into place, and you’re done! That’s all there is to it. You have just successfully changed your wiper blades!

To replace the wiper blades, purchase the correct size for your car. Most cars take either 13-inch or 14-inch wipers. Once you have the new wipers, remove the old ones by lifting the tab that holds them in place. Then, line up the new wiper, so the red clips are in position and snap it into place. Ensure the new wiper is positioned correctly before moving on to the next one.

How to Save Money: Basic Car Repairs to Know tips and knowing what to ask for

If you’re looking to save some money on car repairs, there are a few things you can do yourself. Check your spark plugs and wires regularly and replace them if worn out. Keep an eye on your hoses and belts and look for leaks or cracks. If you’re unsure what to do, ask a friend or family member who knows more about cars. You can also take your car to a mechanic and ask them to check for any red flags. By being proactive and knowing what to look for, you can save yourself some money down the road.

What are Some Precautions for Basic Car Repairs and Basic car maintenance by yourself?

When it comes to vehicle repairs, there are some things you can do yourself and some things you should leave to the professionals. If you’re planning on tackling a repair yourself, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies before you start. Nothing is worse than getting halfway through a repair only to realize you’re missing a crucial piece.

2. Read up on the repair you’re planning to do. There are plenty of resources available online or at your local library. Knowing what you’re doing will make repair go much smoother.

3. Take your time. Rushing a repair is more likely to result in mistakes being made. If possible, set aside an afternoon or even a day to focus on the repair without any distractions.

4. Pay attention to safety precautions. You don’t need to wear any kind of special clothing or use any tools that aren’t necessary, but you should be as safe as possible. For example, if you’re working with electricity, turn off the power before starting the repair.

5. Ask for help when you need it.

You should keep a few things in mind when repairing your car to stay safe. Always ensure the car is turned off and the clips are attached to the positive terminal before starting any repair. If you’re unsure what you’re doing, it’s always best to consult a professional. Otherwise, you could end up doing more harm than good.

Conclusion: With some knowledge, you can keep your car running smoothly for years.

A car is a machine that needs regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. However, you can do many repairs yourself with some knowledge and the right tools.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you keep your car running smoothly for years:

1. Check the engine oil level regularly and change it when necessary.

2. Maintain a clean and leak-free cooling system.

3. Check the brakes for wear and tear on a regular basis.

4. Inspect the tires for tread wear and proper inflation levels.

5. Change the air filter regularly to ensure optimal engine performance.

6. Flush the radiator and refill it with fresh coolant when necessary.