Want to start maintaining your own car? If you need a quick guide on basic auto repair, then this is for you!
Auto Repair at a Glance
I’ve been recently trying to add more skills to my knowledge and auto repair seems to be a good place to start. Going to the repair shop every now and then can be costly and can really put a toll on ones budget. So if you also want to find out what are the basic things you need to learn in auto repair and car maintenance, then this informative infographic will help you a lot!
Auto Repair at a Glance
Conducting your own repairs may be easier than you think!
Did you know?
- The most commonly performed DIY maintenance procedure is Oil Change and Spark Plug Replacement.
- Most DIY automotive repairs can be completed with a basic socket/ratchet and screwdriver set.
- The most common socket size for DIY repairs is the 10mm metric socket.
Replacement Procedures and Times
It’s always best to know what you’re getting into and the amount of money you can save when you do-it-yourself versus hiring a professional.
Know The Basic Parts of Your Car
It would be hard to fix something when you don’t know what the parts are. Above is a quick glance at the basics.
Doing-It-Yourself VS. Professional Installation
Here are a couple of questions you can ask yourself before doing it yourself or hiring a professional.
Just about anyone can easily repair a damaged headlight, tail light, or side mirror with very little risk of anything going awry. However, if we are discussing a blown head gasket, a mistake could cause significant engine damage or a hazard while on the road!
Types of Parts
Aftermarket Parts
- Low prices
- Quality varies greatly, but can be as good as or better than dealer parts
- Easy to find
- Can include warranty
Where to Buy:
Dealer Parts
- Made by vehicle manufacturer, so quality is assured
- Easy to find
- Includes warranty
Where to Buy:
- Dealerships
- Google (search for “OEM make, model, part type”)
Used Parts
- Low prices
- Condition can vary greatly
Where to Buy:
- Car-Part.com
- ebay
- Google (search for “used parts locator service”)
How to Change the Parts
Haynes or Chilton Manuals
These manuals can be found for specific makes and models at any local automotive store.
Youtube
Videos outlining a visual representation of the repair are quite prevalent online.
Parts Distributors
Many of the online resources that offer the sale of replacement parts will provide installation instructions… use them!
Tool Facts
The Hammer
Did you know that the Hammer, as we know it today, is the oldest known tool in human history? Hammers that date back in nearly 3 Million BC have been found.
Granted, the first hammer was probably a bit different than the tool you have in your toolbox today, as we’ve managed a few advancements since then.
NOTE: If you happen to have a hammer from 3 million BC in your toolbox, stop using it and sell it to a museum! You’ll thank us later.
The Screwdriver
It is believed that screwdrivers originated in Europe during the 1400’s.
The Ratcheting Socket
Did you know that the ratcheting socket wrench was patented in 1863?
The Screws
Did you know that flathead screws were out long before Phillips screws? The “improvement” came in an effort to increase the speed of installation. New concepts such as TORX screws were invented to marry the benefits of both flathead and Philips screws.
Important Reminder
When using your standard socket set, remember that only Burma and Liberia share the United States’ standard measuring system—the rest of the world has moved on.
I hope you learned a lot from this. Knowing the basics of your car and the tools you need just the tip of the iceberg. Will you start doing your own car repairs? Share your thoughts below in the comments! 🙂
Ready to get down and dirty?
Start here: Basic Auto Mechanic Skills To Fix Your Car Yourself!
