DIY Automotive Repairs Anyone Can Do

Bringing your car to a mechanic has always been a relatively costly endeavor. But now that the supply chain shortage has taken hold of the automotive industry, even mechanics are starting to feel the struggle. As a result, shops have had to either raise the price of car parts or increase labor costs to adjust for inflation. What this means for car owners is a simple trip to the mechanic could cost hundreds more. To help our readers avoid any overpriced repairs, we’ve gathered a list of the top DIY automotive repairs that even the most novice drivers can try.

3 DIY automotive repairs

We understand not every driver knows a thing or two about automotive repairs. In most cases, the only way you learn about the inner workings of your vehicle is if you become a committed gear head yourself. Luckily, there are plenty of basic skills you can acquire with a little patience and some added time on your hands. For instance, you can make your headlights look good as new with a restoration kit from Amazon or your auto parts store. All we know, giving these DIY hacks a try is well worth the cost it will save you in the long-run.

Here are 3 automotive repairs to try yourself:

Quick windshield repair

If you have a minor crack in your windshield, you can easily repair it with a DIY home kit. Forget having to wait for an auto glass expert to make a visit, you will find a variety of windshield repair kits at your local auto parts store for as low as $5. In the kit, you’ll find all the tools you’ll need, including a plunger apparatus and adhesive, to facilitate a smooth repair. Although the steps are straightforward, first make sure to clean the windshield with a quality glass cleaner. This will prevent any debris from creating a streaky finish on your repair.

Replace the fuel filter

A dirty fuel filter means bad news for your engine. Once you reach approximately 10,000 miles or more on your odometer, it’s highly recommended to check your fuel filter and replace it with a new one. Now the steps are easy, but you’ll want to take it slow, especially on your first try.

1. Disconnect the battery
2. Release the fuel line pressure
3. Disconnect fuel line from the filter
4. Remove the old filter
5. Replace washers
6. Install new filter

These steps embody the fundamentals of fuel filter replacement, but it could vary from vehicle to vehicle. It’s important to check the manufacturers’ specifications for your vehicle before you being. Make sure you know where everything is properly located and you understand the steps. And of course, if you’re feeling doubtful, there are a number of informative videos on YouTube to help guide you through the process.

Power steering fluid

To complete this DIY automotive repair, all you need is a turkey baster and new power steering fluid in tow. Although it might sound crazy, the turkey baster works perfectly to siphon the old power steering fluid out and replace it with new. You’ll want to remove about 90% of the existing oil and safely transport it into a container for recycling. Once the old fluid is removed, pour in the new, start the vehicle, and rotate the steering wheel back and forth.

Next you’ll turn off the engine, let it cool for a bit, then do the same process again. You might have to repeat this step 3 or 4 times before the steering fluid displays a clear hue. That’s when you’ll know forsure that the power steering fluid is ready for use.

Final thoughts on DIY automotive repairs

These 3 repairs can be done at nearly half the cost of taking your vehicle to a local mechanic or dealership. Essentially, when you do the job yourself, you are learning in the process and taking good care of your vehicle on your own terms. Between the affordability and the skills you acquire, DIY automotive repairs are the way to go in 2022.