As a car owner, there’s nothing worse than seeing that dreaded check engine light come on, or hearing that brake pedal start to squeak. But before you take your car to the mechanic and pay a hefty fee for a simple fix, there are a few DIY tips you can try. Hi, I’m John, and over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that’ll help you identify and fix some common car issues. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing those tips with you, so you can save some money and learn a new skill in the process.
Battery corrosion
One of the most common problems car owners face is battery corrosion. If you notice your battery terminals are covered in a white, powdery substance, it’s likely a build-up of lead sulfate. To fix this, all you need is some baking soda and water. Mix the two to create a paste and then apply it to the corroded areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a clean rag. This should take care of the corrosion and improve battery performance.
Squeaky brakes
If you’re hearing a high-pitched squeaking noise when you apply your brakes, it’s likely a sign that your brake pads need to be replaced. This is a simple fix that can be done at home. All you need is a set of new brake pads, a jack, and a wrench. Firstly, you need to identify which wheel is causing the noise. Then, jack up the car and remove the wheel. Remove the brake pads and replace them with the new ones. Reinstall the wheel and repeat for the other wheels if needed.
Squeaky brake pedals
Squeaky brake pedals are a common problem for car owners and can be indicative of other underlying issues. The most common cause is a dried-out brake pedal spring, which will need to be lubricated in order to get rid of the noise. This happens because the metal components of the brake pedal are exposed to air and heat, causing the spring to dry out. To fix this, simply spray some WD-40 onto the brake pedal components and work it in using a clean cloth until the squeaking stops.
Engine overheating
If your car is overheating and the temperature gauge is reading high, it’s important to act fast. An overheating engine can cause serious damage to your car. Firstly, turn off the air conditioner, which will help take some of the pressure off the engine. If that doesn’t help, pull over to a safe place and turn off the engine. Don’t attempt to open the hood until the engine has completely cooled off. Once it’s cool, check the coolant levels, and if it’s low, add more until it reaches the full mark.
Squeaky fan belt
A squeaky fan belt is a common issue and can be caused by a loose or worn belt. Firstly, locate the belt under the hood. Check the tension of the belt – you should be able to move it around half an inch. If it’s too loose, use a wrench to adjust the tension. If it’s too worn, the belt will need to be replaced. This is a DIY fix for those who feel comfortable doing it.
Dead headlights
If one or both of your headlights have gone out, it’s usually a simple fix. Firstly, check the fuse box to see if the problem is there. If the fuses are fine, then it’s likely the bulb itself. Pull out the bulb and look for any damage or wear. If it’s dirty, clean it off before reinserting it. If it’s damaged, then you’ll need to replace it with a new one. This is a simple and inexpensive fix.
As a car owner, it’s important to be able to identify and fix some common car issues. Not only will it save you money, but it’ll also give you the satisfaction of being able to take care of your car on your own. By following these DIY tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a more skilled car owner. If any of these issues persist, or if you simply don’t feel comfortable doing them yourself, then it’s always best to take your car to a professional mechanic.