With gas prices through the roof, taking your car in for maintenance and repair can be a tough financial decision. But malfunctions and damage are inevitable, and having them fixed is the only way to bring your Kia from Santa Fe, NM back to perfect working order. Fortunately, there are a few basic tasks that you can do yourself without having to rely on a mechanic. With the right tools and some basic knowledge, you can save time and money by tackling simple car repairs yourself.
Changing a flat tire
Changing a flat tire is one of the most common car repairs that every driver should know how to do. Unfortunately, professional mechanics are not like DoorDash that can reach you within minutes. In most cases, you won’t have access to professional assistance when your tires blow up. That’s why you should learn to do it yourself. You’ll need a jack, a lug wrench, and a spare tire to change a flat tire. Start by loosening the lug nuts on the flat tire, then use the jack to lift the car off the ground. Remove the lug nuts, remove the flat tire, and replace it with the spare tire. Tighten the lug nuts, and lower the car back to the ground.
Checking and changing the oil
Your Kia from Santa Fe, NM uses different fluids, and they all have an expiration date. They include engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Some dissipate after some time, while others become thick with dust. Regularly checking and topping off these fluids ensures that your vehicle runs properly. Of these fluids, the engine oil requires the most attention. To check it, locate the dipstick, pull it out, wipe it clean, and then reinsert it. Pull it out again and check the oil level. To top it off, locate the corresponding reservoir, open the cap, and add fresh oil as needed.
Replacing windshield wipers
If your windshield wipers are leaving streaks or not clearing your windshield correctly, it’s time to replace them. Start by lifting the wiper arm away from the windshield. Then, press the release tab on the wiper blade to remove it from the wiper arm. Next, insert the new wiper blade ensuring it locks into place, and lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield. Finally, check the replacement wiper blades you are buying. If you live in an area that gets a few inches of snow every other day, you should use winter windshield wipers.
Changing the air filter
The air filter helps keep dirt and debris from entering your car’s engine. However, the air filter can become clogged over time and should be replaced. A clogged air filter can affect your engine’s performance. To change the air filter, locate the air filter box, which is usually near the front of the engine compartment. Open the box and remove the old filter. Next, install the new filter, ensure that it’s properly seated, and close the box.
Replacing a headlight or taillight
If one of your headlights or taillights goes out, it’s crucial to replace it as soon as possible. This simple task requires only a new bulb and a few tools. Start by locating the back of the headlight or taillight assembly, disconnect the wiring harness, and remove the old bulb. Insert the new bulb and reconnect the wiring harness.
While these basic car repairs are relatively straightforward, it’s essential to always follow safety guidelines when working on your car. Make sure you have the necessary tools and knowledge to complete the task, and never work on your vehicle if you’re not comfortable doing so. Check out Fiesta Kia for more helpful tips.
