5 Car Maintenance Tasks You Can Actually Do Yourself

(With Tools You Already Have at Home!)

At our shop, we love helping people take care of their cars, even when that means empowering you to do some simple maintenance yourself! Not everything has to be left to the pros. Here are five easy tasks you can knock out at home with just a few basic tools (and maybe a little confidence).

🔧 1. Check and Refill Your Oil

What You Need: A rag, funnel, and new oil (check your owner’s manual for the right type).

How To:

• Pop your hood and locate the dipstick.

• Pull it out, wipe it clean, then dip it back in.

• Pull it out again to check the level.

• If you're low, use a funnel to pour in a little oil at a time. Don't overfill!

✅ Pro Tip: Check your oil every 1,000 miles or so especially if your car is older.

🌀 2. Replace Your Air Filter

What You Need: Just your hands, maybe a screwdriver if your filter cover has screws.

How To:

• Open your hood and locate the air filter box (usually a black plastic box with clips).

• Pop it open, remove the old filter, and drop in the new one.

• That’s it!

✅ Pro Tip: A clean air filter helps with fuel efficiency and engine performance. Replace it every 12,000–15,000 miles.

💡 3. Replace Windshield Wiper Blades

What You Need: New blades and maybe a YouTube video for your specific car model.

How To:

• Lift the wiper arms.

• Press the tab or clip to slide the old blade off.

• Slide the new one on until it clicks.

✅ Pro Tip: If your wipers are streaking or squeaking, it's time. Replace once or twice a year.

🔋 4. Clean Your Battery Terminals

What You Need: Baking soda, water, an old toothbrush, and a wrench.

How To:

• Mix baking soda and water into a paste.

• Disconnect your battery cables (negative first!).

• Scrub the terminals with your toothbrush.

• Rinse with water and dry before reconnecting.

✅ Pro Tip: This helps prevent corrosion and keeps your car starting strong.

🔍 5. Check Your Tire Pressure

What You Need: A tire pressure gauge (cheap and easy to find).

How To:

• Remove the cap from each tire’s valve stem.

• Press the gauge onto the valve to get a reading.

• Compare it to your recommended pressure (on a sticker inside the driver’s door).

• Add or release air as needed.

✅ Pro Tip: Proper tire pressure = better fuel economy, handling, and tire life.

🚗 Final Thoughts:

Car care doesn’t have to be intimidating. Taking a few minutes every month to tackle these simple tasks can save you money, extend your car’s life, and help you feel more in control on the road. Of course, when the big stuff comes up we’re here for that too.

Need a hand or have a question? Give us a call or swing by the shop we love helping people feel confident behind the wheel!