We all want to save money whenever and wherever we can. That’s why it can be upsetting to see that Check Engine light on your car’s dashboard or hear a weird rumbling when you make a turn. Paying for an unexpected expense at the mechanic can be the reason this month’s budget is blown over the edge.
Luckily, there are a lot of car maintenance issues that can be resolved yourself without having to pay the higher costs of professional help. However, there are plenty of other issues that cannot be fixed on your own. It’s important to know the difference so that you don’t waste money attempting to fix a maintenance problem on your own and your safety isn’t put at risk.
Car Repairs You Can Handle Yourself
These are a couple of car repair issues that can be resolved on your own with a little money and labor.
1. Windshield Wipers
Your windshield wipers help you see properly when you drive. But they can take a real beating, especially during the wintertime. This is why your windshield wipers should be checked and replaced about once a year. This is something you can easily do yourself and get Toyota dealers parts for sale online, which should save you around twenty dollars in labor costs.
2. Oil Change
Changing your oil is a simple task that can be done in your driveway. There’s no need to go to a mechanic for an oil change, all you need is a few tools and know how. Your car typically needs an oil change every five months or every 5,000 miles–depending on which comes first. While it’s true changing your oil can be a messy job, it’s quite simple to do. Just wear some old clothes and have a rag nearby. By changing the oil yourself, you’ll save tons of money.
3. Filter Replacement
Air filters that help the engine run smoothly need to be changed every year or every 12,000 miles. If you purchase some new air filters, changing out the old ones is a very easy task you can do yourself. There is no need to rely on a professional for this.
Car Repairs that Require a Mechanic
- Your Tires
Over time your tires will become worn and they need to be rotated so that they wear evenly. Tire rotation and all other tire work, like replacement and spin balancing, require specific equipment and a higher level of mechanic knowledge. It’s a good idea to rely on the professionals for this one.
2. The Clutch
Changing out or repairing your clutch requires a lot of heavy, specific equipment. The clutch is also integral to the proper function of your car and is better left to the professionals. There is a lot of heavy lifting involved and dealing with the clutch could require engine removal. You would be better off taking your car to the mechanic than trying to handle the issue yourself.
3. Brake Problems
Whenever you run into brake problems with your car, you definitely need to involve a professional. The brake system in your car is integral to the proper functioning of your vehicle, so don’t gamble your cars health just to save a few bucks. If you made even one tiny mistake in your attempt to repair your own braking system, it could seriously compromise your safety.
If you need to take your car to a mechanic but don’t really have the extra cash to cover it right now, you could use your car’s equity to get registration loans to cover the expenses temporarily.