There are many costs associated with owning a car, from fuel and maintenance services to auto insurance premiums vehicle repairs. So, it makes perfect sense why most drivers cringe at the mere thought of potential repair costs.
Because repair costs can range from minor cosmetic dents and hood strut replacement to serious engine repair, it’s easy to understand how these extra costs can throw your budget out. Even more so because repair needs ironically always emerge when you least expect them.
While routine maintenance services, general car care, and good driving habits are effective ways to reduce the likelihood of repair needs emerging, repairs are sometimes inevitable.
Fortunately, if you have the time and basic skills, you could save some money by performing these straightforward vehicle repairs with a DIY approach.
Air Filter Replacement
Replacing the air filter on your vehicle requires no more than ten minutes of your time and the small cost of a new air filter. While the average cost of an air filter replacement is around $60, this component only costs about $30.
To change your car’s air filter, open the hood and locate the filter. If you can’t find it, you can refer to the owner’s manual. Once you have located the air filter, note how the component fits and the direction in which it faces. Now remove the air filter and insert the new component in the same way.
Minor Cosmetic Touches
It’s best to rely on the professionals after a car accident or if your car needs major cosmetic retouches and repairs for any other reason. Although, you can manage minor cosmetic touches at home.
Minor cosmetic damage like paint scratches and small dents can be fixed at home with the right approach. You can try using toothpaste, nail polish, or car decals for scratches. On the other hand, dents can be removed with hot water and a dent remover tool.
Minor dents can cost around $50 to $200 to repair, and a dent remover tool can cost as little as $10. So, you can save enormously by removing minor dents at home.
Interior Stain Removal
Whether your toddler tossed over a bubblegum milkshake in light of approaching bedtime, or you spilled your latte in a rush to work, interior stains sometimes need professional attention.
With the right approach, you can avoid having to pay a professional cleaning service to detail your car’s interior. You can simply wipe away as much of the mess as possible, sprinkle a generous amount of bicarb on the stain, spritz thoroughly with vinegar, and allow the combo to sit for a few minutes.
Use a damp cloth to wipe the bicarb and vinegar after half an hour, allow it to dry thoroughly, and then vacuum the residue.
It can cost anywhere from about $100 to $200 for a professional car valet service, while bicarb and vinegar will only cost you a few dollars.
Replace Windscreen Wiper Blades
Every driver must know how to do some repair tasks, like changing a tire. Even though an auto mechanic can do these repairs for you, knowing how to do it yourself can save you from finding yourself stranded on the roadside due to a flat tire. The same applies to windscreen wiper blades; although broken blades won’t leave you stranded, it’s best to know how to conduct this repair yourself.
The method required to change wiper blades will depend on the brand, although most are clip or slide-in installations. Even so, it’s important to purchase the right type and length of wiper blades for your car.
It will cost about $30 to have your wiper blades replaced for you. So, you can save a few dollars with this straightforward repair as well because new wiper blades typically cost about $20.
Windscreen Chip Or Small Crack
Windscreens can become damaged due to loose road gravel, hail, and a few other instances. It’s also impossible to avoid windscreen chips because spontaneous events typically cause them.
Nevertheless, with a windscreen repair kit, you can fix this on your own for as little as $15. On the other hand, it will cost about $60 for a minor windscreen chip repair.
While there are several easy car repairs that you can safely perform on your own, others must be left to the professionals. Unfortunately, you’ll be risking your own safety and that of other road users by conducting more major vehicle repairs incorrectly. Moreover, specialized tools and knowledge are required.