Even in this age of computerized automotive systems and engines hidden from view beneath plastic covers, there are simple upkeep tasks that you can do that will save time and money. And this means you — ordinary, old, non-mechanical you. This list of projects requires few tools and no experience. If you’ve hung a picture or pounded a nail, you can tackle any one of them.
1. Check Your Tire Pressure and Inflate Your Tires
Money saved: A tire-pressure check and inflation is usually combined with other routine services, but the estimate for the shop cost of this alone is $22-$30. The biggest savings, however, is the increased fuel economy that comes with properly inflated tires: $112 a year in gas.
Time required: 15 minutes, once a month
Parts required: None
Tools required: Tire pressure gauge, air pump (usually free at a gas station)
2. Rotate Your Tires
Money saved: A tire rotation in Portland ranges from $43-$60. For a person driving 12,000 miles a year, that’s two tire rotations. Doing it yourself could save $120 annually.
Time required: One hour
Parts required: None
Tools required: Jack stand, tire iron and your car’s jack. Follow the rotation pattern in your user manual.
3. Change Your Air Filter
Money saved: Mechanics charge $19-$60 just for the labor involved in changing an air filter.
Time required: Five minutes
Parts required: New air filter
Tools required: Screwdriver
4. Replace Bulbs and Fuses
Money saved: Mechanics charge from $17-$132 to replace bulbs and fuses, depending on the make and model of vehicle.
Time required: 30 minutes
Parts required: Replacement bulbs and fuses (usually sold in a box of assorted sizes at NAPA, AutoZone, etc.)
Tools required: Screwdriver
5. Change Your Own Oil
Money saved: Quick-lube shops and dealership service departments in Portland charge $25 – $50.
Time required: One hour
Parts required: Engine oil, oil filter. Sometimes it’s a good idea to replace the washer for the drain plug, too.
Tools required: Jack, oil pan for catching the old oil, socket wrench, oil-filter wrench, recycling bottles, mechanic’s rubber gloves and plenty of rags.
There’s Help at Hand
When you’re setting out to do any of these fix-it jobs, check with your local auto parts store for DIY support services they might offer. AutoZone, for example, advertises that it will help you find the right part, loan you tools, recycle your old oil and will print out instructions for getting the job done.
Original article from edmunds.com