If you’re reading this, chances are you probably already know that you should be taking care of your car. You might even have a regular mechanic that keeps your car in tip-top shape. However, there is more to fixing your car than what your mechanic will do for it (but not much more). If you want to get down and dirty with some DIY repairs, you’ll need to watch some videos about auto repair. Here are seven auto repair video tutorials on everything from changing oil, installing new brake pads or rotors, replacing door speakers and wiring headlights (and more) that every amateur mechanic must see:
The Basics : How To Change Your Own Oil
This quick video has over 4 million views for good reason – the steps are simple and straightforward. It’s worth noting that some cars (like many newer Nissan models) require synthetic oil, which you’ll still need to get serviced by your mechanic.
Wiring Headlights
Headlight wiring is another basic repair that nearly anyone can figure out on their own with the right video tutorial. This particular one has over 3 million views for good reason – it’s informative, easy to follow and extremely helpful.
Installing New Brake Pads or Rotors
Whether your brakes are squeaking, vibrating or making some other odd noise, it may be time to replace them entirely. Different types of brakes call for different procedures when it comes time to change them out though. Fortunately, this video covers just about any type you might come across.
Replacing Door Speakers
If your speakers sound like they’re full of static, it may be because there’s actually water in them (which happens more often than you’d think). Whatever the cause though, this video has got you covered with step-by-step instructions on how to get rid of that dreaded noise.
Radiator Replacement and Flushing for Dummies
There’s nothing worse than seeing steam and/or coolant leaking from under your car (believe me, we’ve been burnt by this before). When that radiator finally croaks, at least this informative video will help teach you how to properly remove and replace it without any unnecessary headaches. However…if your radiator is severely cracked, your best bet is to simply replace it.
Installing an Oil Filter
Whether you’ve recently purchased a new car or are just getting into auto repair, it’s important to know how to change oil – especially if you’re the only one that drives your car. As this video shows us, changing your own oil can be much easier than you might think (and much cheaper too).
Draining Fluid Reservoirs and Refilling Transmission Fluid
The transmission fluid in your car carries the lubricant throughout the engine. Over time, this fluid will break down and need to be replaced lest mechanics begin having issues with slipping gears or other problems. This video explains exactly what needs to be done when draining an automatic transmission reservoir. If you have a manual transmission, you’ll need to check your car’s manual for other instructions.
Disconnecting Your Battery
Whether your battery is dead or if you just want to disconnect it altogether for whatever reason, this video walks you through the steps of doing so in easy-to-understand language. Disconnecting your battery can be dangerous, which is why novices should take every precaution necessary before performing the task at hand. That being said though, once you know what needs to be done, taking out your battery will seem like cakewalk.
10 Basic Maintenance Procedures
Neglected vehicle care almost always results in higher costs in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value down the road. A routine maintenance program saves money by extending the life of the vehicle and reducing the need for costly repairs. The Car Care Council recommends the following ten basic maintenance procedures to keep your car in good working order:
- Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake, and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze.
- Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of wear.
- Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the cable connection is clean, tight and corrosion free.
4.Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
- Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damaged or broken supports, brackets and hangers.
- Schedule a tune up to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.
- Check the heating, ventilating and A/C system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
- Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and front end components.
- Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread depth. Check for any signs of bulges and bald spots. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment.
- Check the wipers and lighting so you can see and be seen. Replace worn wiper blades and so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.
Are You Looking for an Independent Auto Repair Shop You Can Trust?
If you’re considering making a change to an independent auto repair mechanic trusted by thousands of happy customers, look no further than autoTECH Blackhawk. Why? We differ from other automotive repair stops because we are a relationship shop. This means that the more of your car repair needs we support you with, the better able we are to customize our recommendations based on your driving habits and needs. Whether you want to keep the daily driver in ‘good enough’ condition, style your new car so that it’s customized just for you, maintain your favorite car in ‘like new’ condition, or even train your whole family to be more knowledgeable about cars – we partner with you to ensure that your cars meet your needs. We also offer an industry-leading 3-Year/36,000-mile warranty, so we only use Original Equipment and manufacturer-recommended products. Contact us now to book your no-contact, friendly appointment! We truly value your trust and your business, so thank you for staying local with your auto repair needs.
