Cars are complicated pieces of machinery, so they need regular tune-ups and maintenance work done by professionals. But with the right tools, ample knowledge, and a little time, there are some kinds of repairs that you can do on your own. Work your way down this checklist and feel better knowing that your car is in great shape.
- Replace Your Wiper Blades
Before you begin, check for missing chunks of rubber. Squirt some water on your windshield and turn on the wiper blades if you don’t see anything. If they leave streaks, it’s time to change them.
Replacing wiper blades usually costs between $20 to $40, depending on the brand you use. You might be tempted to pick up the cheaper ones but investing in a little more here means the blades will be more resistant to environmental factors like heat and heavy rain.
- Swap Out Your Air Filters
Did you know that you’re supposed to change your air filters annually or every 12,000 miles depending on which comes first?
Pop the hood and find your air filter. It will have clips on the side. Unfasten the clips and swap out the old ones with the new air filters. Remember to close the clips before closing the hood.
This will cost you around $10. If you’re unsure where to get new air filters, check with a Volkswagen dealership in Albuquerque, NM.
- Add Lubrication to Your Window Tracks
When your windows start squealing as they roll up or down, it’s time for them to be lubricated. All you need is a little silicone spray or dry Teflon spray lubricant, which costs below $20. Lower the window and coat the spray right into the front and back window track. There should be enough applied so that you can visibly see drops rolling along the trails.
The windows need to be rolled up and down several times to spread the lubricant evenly. Clean the window to remove any smudges.
- Replace Your Spark Plugs
A good rule of thumb is to switch out your spark plugs every 30,000 miles. Spark plugs are easy to find because they’re attached to thick rubber wires. If you can’t find them, check your owner’s car manual.
Remove the wire for the first spark plug. Do not remove both. You need to be sure of their order. Replace the spark plug with the new one. Secure with your hand before using a wrench. Do not tighten too much. Finally, re-attach the wire. Then move on to the second spark plug.
The parts will cost you about $20. If you’re unsure where to get them, check with your Volkswagen dealer in Albuquerque, NM.
- Check Your PCV Valve
Later car models don’t have a PCV valve. If yours does, check it whenever you do an oil change.
To check, slide the vacuum hose off and unscrew the valve. Shake it gently. If you hear a metallic clicking sound, then you don’t have to change it yet. If it sounds a little squishy, then it’s time for a replacement. This will cost you between $30 to $80, depending on the make and model of your car.
- Change Your Oil
Oil changes should be done every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on how old your car is. The average driver has to change their oil about three to four times a year, which racks up quite a fee.
It might sound complicated but changing your oil isn’t that hard. Wait for your engine to cool before you begin. From under your car, find the oil pan and drain it. Replace the drain plug and slide out. Remove the oil filter. Rub some motor oil on the rubber gasket of the new oil filter for a bit of lubrication. Pour in the new oil up to about two-thirds before screwing it back in using just your hands.
With a funnel, fill the engine with new oil. To check that the oil is at the right level, use a dip-stick. If you already have all the tools, this shouldn’t cost you more than $30.
- Check Your Battery
Batteries are crucial to keeping your car running smoothly. Everything to do with comfort is linked to your battery, and the last thing you want is a dead battery on a cold winter night. Since residue builds up quickly on a battery, it is crucial to keep an eye on it.
Remove the battery terminal, always starting with the negative cable. Clean out the posts. Wash using a cleaning fluid with some water, dry the posts, and then replace the terminals.
This process is inexpensive and will only take you about 20 minutes.
- Look After Your Brake Pads
Make sure you have a lug wrench, hammer, and C-clamp before you begin. Brake pads often need to be changed every 20,000 miles. You’ll probably need to change it earlier if you drive in the city.
Jack up your car and remove the lug nut before taking off the wheel. Locate the brake pads by removing the brake caliper, so they appear at the top. Replace them with new ones. If your car is older, you might need to tap it gently using your hammer to get them to fit securely. Once you’re done, reinstall the brake caliper.
Depending on the make and model of your car, this could come up to about $50.
Remember, if you ever have any concerns about how or when to do these maintenance works, check out Fiesta Volkswagen dealer in Albuquerque, NM and get all your questions answered.
