Even if you are going to a good mechanic, chances are you are still overpaying for services that aren't really needed. The majority of services are easier than you think to fix yourself. Read through this list and see how you can potentially save yourself hundreds on repair costs.
Replacing The Wiper Blades
There is no reason that anyone should pay for this to be done. Replacing the wipers is as simple as pulling off the old ones and popping on the new ones.
Changing The Oil Every 3,000 Miles
It's pretty easy to change your own oil, but that's for another time. If you do go to a mechanic, don't get tricked in to thinking you have to go back every 3,000 miles. The majority of todays manufacturers recommend oils changes between 5,000 and 10,000 miles.
Swapping Out The Battery
Most auto parts stores will test your battery to see if it needs to be replaced in the first place, but all you really need is a ratchet and a new battery to replace it yourself.
Replacing Burned-Out Bulbs
Your car manual should have basic instructions on how to replace any bulb. The whole process shouldn't take you more than 30 minutes.
Replacing The Fuses
If your headlights go out or the radio doesn't work, don't panic and take it straight to a shop. Grab your manual, find the fuse box and the fuse number in question; if the metal piece joining the two larger pieces is broken, then all you need is to replace it with the same numbered fuse.
Fuel System Services
While fuel system services are beneficial, they are mainly needed for vehicles over 100,000 miles. If your car is just a few years old and you have been using quality fuel, there's no need for this to be done.
Fixing Squealing Belts
Fixing a squealing belt can be as simple as spraying a small about of lube on the drive and accessory belts. Check for any cracks on the belts while you are in there; you may need to apply some belt dressing before you can get a new one.
Rotating The Tires
Rotating the tires on a car can greatly extend their life and save you money. All you need to do is jack the car up and put the tires on different corners. There are plenty of guides online to follow for certain tread patterns.
Diagnosing The Check Engine Light
Check engine lights can appear for a number of different reasons, sometimes it can be as simple as forgetting to close your gas cap all the way. There are many tools out there that you can buy to diagnose the issue yourself which will save you some money.
Patching The Tires
Unless you have patched a tire before, you really shouldn't attempt to fix one on the fly. The majority of tire retailers offer guarantees or will even patch your tire for free.
Replacing The Spark Plugs
If you can reach all the spark plugs, you will need a tiny tool that goes over the end of the plug. Use the tool to unscrew the old ones and insert the new ones, make sure they are screwed in just past hand-tight.
Swapping Out The Brake Pads
While changing brake pads is a little more difficult than changing your oil, it's still something that you can do at home. You will also get the benefit of learning more about what goes on behind the wheels.
Changing The Air Filter
Air filters need to be replaced every two to three years, and it's quite easy to do it yourself. The whole process should take under five minutes, which is worth the time to save the money.
