🚗 DIY Car Care: Easy Fixes You Can Do at Home

Sophie Backus
Jul 29
2 min read

If you love your car (or just want to save some cash💸), knowing a few basic maintenance tricks goes a long way. You don’t have to be a mechanic to keep your ride running smooth. Here are some simple DIY tips that anyone can tackle in their driveway.

1. 🛢️ How to Check and Top Off Your Engine Oil

Keeping your engine oil at the right level is critical for your car’s health. Here’s how to check and add oil yourself:

Park on level ground and turn off the engine. Wait about 30 seconds to let the oil drain back into the pan.
Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again.
Check the oil level between the “min” and “max” marks.
If low, add the right type of oil slowly via the oil fill cap.
Recheck level and don’t overfill!

2. 🛞 DIY Tire Pressure Check and Inflation

Proper tire pressure improves safety, fuel efficiency, and tire life.

Find your car’s recommended PSI (usually on the driver’s door or manual).
Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire.
Inflate tires at a gas station air pump or with a portable inflator to the recommended PSI.
Don’t forget the spare tire!

3. 🌧️ How to Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blades

Clear visibility is essential for safety. Changing wiper blades is easy and affordable.

Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
Press the small tab on the blade where it connects to the arm.
⚠️ Important: Do not take your hand off the wiper arm once the blade is off. It can snap back and crack the windshield. Either lower it gently or have the new blade ready to install immediately.
Slide the old blade off.
Slide the new blade on until it clicks.
Lower the arm gently back down.

4. 🔋 Basic Battery Maintenance: Cleaning Corrosion

If your car struggles to start, battery corrosion might be the culprit.

Put on gloves and eye protection.
Mix baking soda and water to make a cleaning paste.
Disconnect the battery cables (negative first).
Scrub battery terminals gently with a toothbrush and paste.
Rinse with water and dry.
Reconnect cables (positive first).

5. 💡 How to Change Your Headlight Bulbs

Dim or broken headlights are dangerous and often a simple fix.

Open the hood and locate the back of the headlight assembly.
Remove the wiring connector.
Twist and remove the old bulb.
Install the new bulb without touching the glass.
Reattach the connector and test the light.

👍 Taking Care of Your Car Doesn't Have to Be Complicated

These easy fixes are a great way to save money, learn more about your vehicle, and keep things running smoothly. You might even find yourself enjoying it!

And if you ever want a second opinion, a walkthrough, or professional service, you know where to find us.

From Dicky’s Doghouse