General Car Maintenance

The task of doing your own car maintenance does not have to be a frightening experience. If you can do the basics of car maintenance, you should see a great deal of savings in your car budget. I'm sure you have had the experience of taking your car to the shop for an oil change, and get an outrageous bill for that minor service. If you could do this yourself, you could save several hundred dollars on just oil changes throughout the year. And if you could do some of the other routine tasks as well, that's even more money that will be in your pocket instead of the shop.

Becoming a do-it-yourself car maintenance person is even easier if you are the type of person who likes to do hands on work. If not, don't be afraid of it, anyone can do these simple tasks, so don't worry about getting dirty. Having more money in your wallet will ease the pain of washing up afterwards.

There are many tasks that are a part of basic car maintenance. Fluids that need replacing on a regular basis include oil changes, transmission fluid, and coolant/anti freeze flushes. The electrical system needs periodic spark plug checks, as well as periodic replacement. With a few simple tools, you can perform all of these tasks at home at low cost.

Here is a typical list of equipment needed for changing your car's oil as well as your oil filter:

- A socket wrench to undo the drain plug
- Oil filter clamp
- Fresh Oil
- Fresh filter
- Drain pan to empty used oil
- Funnel for adding new oil

The task of doing an oil change is simple! Place your drain pan under the car, remove the drain plug, and the oil begins to flow out naturally. This can take some time, so you can go about other tasks and come back when the oil has finished filling the pan. This task only tool a few minutes, but is easy and will save you money!

Two more simple tasks include spark plug checks and coolant changes. In order to check your spark plugs, you will need to purchase a spark plug socket, a special tool which is designed to reach into the spark plug chamber. To locate your spark plugs, open or unscrew the main cover on your engine to reveal the spark plugs. Reach in with the spark plug socket, unscrew a spark plug and pull it out for inspection. If it looks burnt out or white in color, you will need to change the plug. Spark plugs that are used up can also indicate other troubles in your car. If you see oil covering the plugs, or other signs of wear, take your car in for a checkup, the repairman should be able to tell you what may be wrong with your car.

One of the most important annual car maintenance tasks is changing the coolant in your radiator system. Coolant is essential for keeping your car from overheating during hot summer days. The process for the change is simple. Look for the hose that connects to the radiator, place a drain pan below that connection, and undo the hose connection. Coolant will drain out easily and quickly. When the draining is complete, attach the hose again, then refill the coolant supply. It's a snap!

In summary, the task of doing your own car maintenance is easy and simple. You can get started on this money saving task at any time!