Want to know some basic auto mechanic skills? Start saving money by working on your car at home. We've got all the details below.
Basic Auto Mechanic Skills
Being self-sufficient doesn't end in the homestead. You have to know how to be self-sufficient in all aspects that you can. If you own a car, it would be great to know the basics in auto mechanic. Not only will it save you a lot of money but it can also save you in case you end up in a sticky situation. I'd have to say, these basic skills aren't just for homesteaders, everyone who owns a car should know these too!
1. Engine Cleaning
This may be time consuming but you have to get this done at least every few months. See how here.
2. Jumpstarting a Car
You'll never know when you'll accidentally end up with a dead battery. I'm sure you won't want to be left stranded. Learn how to jumpstart a car here.
3. Repair Rear Window Defroster
You'll never be stuck with snow in your rear window when you know how to repair it.
4. Changing Serpentine Belt
The key is having the right tools for the job, as per Eric the Car Guy.
5. Cleaning Carburetor
Does your car still have a carburetor? Then this is the best way you can clean it.
6. Change Oil
Did you know that you'll only need about 30 minutes to change oil your car? And you'll be surprised at how much money you'll save. It's so easy!
7. Lubricate Door and Hinges
This is something everyone, and I mean everyone can do. You don't want noisy car doors right? See how here.
8. Spark Plug Replacement
Make sure that electricity travels in your car properly by making sure your spark plugs are working properly. Get the steps here.
9. Replacing Timing Belt
There are times when you need to change your car's timing belt. When you need to, just refer to this video tutorial.
10. Tire Change
Don't rely on anyone else in case you ever get a flat. Get the tutorial here.
11. Change Air Filter
Maximize your gas mileage and minimize emission by having new air filters every 6 months. See how here.
12. Battery Change
You may not have to do this until after a year or two but in case you have to, just refer to this video tutorial.
13. Repack Wheel Bearings
This can be tiring and time consuming but this is really not a difficult task to do. See for yourself here.
14. Replacing the Headlights
In case your headlights are getting a bit dim, it would be best to find out how to change them yourself.
15. Add Windshield Fluid
Car fluids tend to run out after some time. Learn how to properly refill your windshield wiper fluid with this tutorial.
16. Replacing Wipers
In case you didn't know windshield wiper blades need replacing too.
17. Inflating Tire
Save gas and money by making sure that your tires have the right amount of air in them.
18. Checking Break Fluid
Making sure that you have enough break fluid all the time can save your life, trust me.
19. Fixing Transmission
This may be a little challenging but you'll be glad to know how to do it.
20. Suspension Repair
Rough conditions can wear suspensions down. It's always good to know how to repair them.
21. Repair Car Air-conditioner
It won't be that much of a bother during winter but when summer comes, it would be so harder to bear the heat without a working air-conditioner. See how here.
Want to know what's in your engine? Learn the basic parts and their functions from EricTheCarGuy:
Got any tips of your own? We'd love to hear! Share them below in the comments.
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Sky Heigh says
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Natanael Ordenal says
I absolutely love this article. great tips for car owners! thanks for sharing,
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Remi Dinal says
This article is nice. Thanks for sharing!
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Stu says
Slight typo on #18… Brake not break..
vw cairns says
Most of these are super easy to do.
I may be talking myself out of a job, being a Mechanic and owning my own shop, but I firmly believe that everyone should have a good knowledge of the basics.
However, at least half of our jobs are also due to people not completely knowing the basics, messing up and causing more damage.
We love the work but its challenging and time consuming to undo other people mistakes.