Advice to get your used car repair

Are you interested in repairing your vehicle yourself? Fixing a used car can be intimidating, but it
is also a very rewarding experience. Getting Started You don't need to be a master mechanic or
have an advanced degree in automotive engineering to fix your car. Anyone can do it with the
right knowledge and tools. You can start out by learning the basics: How to check and change
the oil and where to place the unleaded in your fuel tank. Once you get more comfortable, learn
how to replace a burnt-out headlight, rotate tires and inspect tires.

Replace Your Wiper Blades

It's simple to identify when your blades need to be replaced. Simply push the washer button and
check to see whether your blades are clean. They're toast if they streak. There will be plenty of
budget blades at the auto parts shop but go for a name brand instead (ANCO, Trico or Bosch).
They are more expensive than budget blades, but their higher-quality rubber cleanses better,
provides better UV protection, and lasts longer. Follow the installation instructions on the
package. Be sure you have a firm grip on the wiper arm once you remove the old blade. If it
gets away from you, it can hit the windshield with enough force to crack it.

Shake Your PCV Valve

This may appear complicated, but it is not. If your vehicle has a PCV valve (some late-model
vehicles do not), remove it every other oil change. In most situations, the valve is located on top
of the engine and is linked to a vacuum pipe. Some late-model vehicles lack PCV valves, so
don't get too worked up over it. Remove the vacuum hose from the valve and unscrew it. Then,
do the world's simplest diagnostic test: shake it. It's fine if it produces a metallic clicking sound.
Replace it if it makes no noise or sounds mushy. However, don't replace it based just on
appearance—all used PCV valves appear filthy.

Replace Engine Air Filter

Replace your engine air filter after inspecting it. Remove the old filter by unscrewing or
unclipping the air filter box retainers. Then, using a shop light held behind the filter, determine
how much light passes through. Replace the filter if it blocks more than 50% of the light. If not,
replace it, secure the air filter box lid, and continue driving. Get the whole step-by-step guide on
replacing your air filter here. It's one of the simplest ways to repair an automobile.

Gas Lifts
Why put your brain on the line when you can repair gas lift cylinders yourself? Simply purchase
new lifters from any auto parts shop. Then, have someone keep the hood or lift gate open while
you disconnect and replace the worn lifts. Using a metric socket set, many styles easily unbolt.
Others use a ball and socket connection kept in place by a spring clip. Simply insert a tiny flat-
bladed screwdriver between the spring clip and the cylinder to release it. Pull the cylinder away
from the ball stud. Here's a step-by-step tutorial to replace your gas lifts.

The right advice can make a world of difference in making your used car repair easy. You will be
on firm footing if you know in advance what can be done to make your vehicle run smooth and
work efficiently.