Keep in mind what repair you need to make. If you’re changing a fuse, for instance, you will need to buy a new fuse. If you’re changing the oil, you need an oil pan. Check with your local auto parts store to see what kind of tool rental program they have. These programs provide a way to borrow expensive tools without having to buy them.
You can order a manual online or from most auto parts stores. Read the manual’s cover to find what make and model of car it is for. For instance, it will say something like “BMW 3-series 2008 through 2012. ” You can also search online for manufacturer repair manuals. Type the make and model of your car followed by the words “repair manual. ” These manuals may be a little more challenging to understand than the print manuals, so be cautious.
Many videos are made by amateur car enthusiasts. They may not have much experience or professional training. Make sure you reference videos with official resources like a repair manual.
You can purchase a printed maintenance card at an auto parts store or make your own in a notebook. Store the log in your car’s glove compartment so you always have it.
Try marking the parts with a tag or something like nail polish to indicate alignment. Store parts in a safe spot, such as in plastic bags on a workbench.
Check your owner’s manual for a recommended repair schedule. It will list how long each part lasts, but remember that these are only estimates. Frequent inspections are a more accurate way of determining when a car needs repairs. For example, oil and oil filters should be replaced about every 3,000 mi (4,800 km). Check batteries, fluids, and hoses at this point as well. Replace air filters about every 12,000 mi (19,000 km), along with components like power steering fluid. Inspect the brake pads, suspension, and similar components for damage. Most other components will last at least 35,000 mi (56,000 km). This includes the battery, spark plugs, fuses, and tires.
The check engine light should not be taken lightly. If it comes on, inspect your car as soon as possible. Use your car’s symptoms to diagnose your car. If your car lacks power, you know it is likely an issue with the electrical system, such as a dead battery or blown fuse. Get a diagnostic reader to easily locate problems. Auto part store employees have these and will even rent them to you. You can also buy your own online.
Refer to the owner’s manual if you need help locating the cap. If the cap or rotor look worn or cracked, they need to be replaced right away.
Some distributor caps have neither clips nor screws. For this type of cap, push down on it and rotate it counterclockwise until it comes off. Avoid pulling the spark plug wires off the cap right away. These wires need to be attached to specific parts of the cap, so they have to be handled with caution or else they can overload the car’s electrical system.
If your rotor has a screw, the screw will be on the shaft, underneath the blade. Remove it carefully so it doesn’t fall into the engine. Spin the rotor by hand after you replace it to ensure it turns freely.
Work slowly and make sure the plugs attach to the proper spokes. If the plugs are out of order, you could end up causing electrical damage to your vehicle.
If the spark plugs are bent or otherwise obstructed, your car’s systems may not get adequate power.
The fuel filter is a round canister with 2 spokes sticking out the sides. The car’s fuel line hoses connect to the spokes. The canister itself is often black, gray, or orange. Refer to your owner’s manual! With it, you can pinpoint the filter’s location right away. A slow or stalled car may indicate a dirty fuel filter. Replace it to see if this brings your car back up to speed.
Your car needs to be turned off to do this. The fuses conduct electricity, so never touch the box while your car is live.
You only need to let the car run for 1 or 2 minutes. You should be able to hear the air hissing out from the gas cap near the back of the car.
For safety, park the car on a hard, flat surface before lifting it. The jack stands catch the car in case something happens to the jack. Always place a stand next to a jack to reduce the risk of accidents.
The fuel needs to be kept in a separate container from other fluids like oil. When you’re done with it, drop it off at a recycling location. Most mechanic shops accept fuel for recycling.
Some fuel filters use clips instead of bolts, which you can undo by pulling on them with your fingers. If the fuel lines are hard to remove, try twisting them off with a wrench.
To help you install them correctly, most filters have flow lines printed on them. Use the lines to orient the old and new filter before swapping them. The flow line should point towards the car’s engine.
The filter is typically pretty easy to find, but refer to the owner’s manual if you need help tracking it down.
For clips, simply pull them back to release the cover.
An old filter will look dirty. If you try to shine a light through the filter material, you won’t be able to see it on the other side. Replace the filter when this happens to keep harmful debris out of your car.
Use your old filter as reference for the new one. Check how it was placed in the compartment so you know exactly how to fit the new one.
You won’t need to test the filter to see if it is working. As long as it fits securely in the chamber, it will work.
