It's a good idea for every driver to know how to jump-start a dead battery because calling a tow truck in to do it can waste both time and money. Also, this can be especially tricky on some newer cars. Do yourself a favor and familiarize yourself with the procedures on your car before it happens.
In case you can't get your car started, you might be able to get a friend or family member to tow you instead of calling the truck. Learning how to properly use tow straps is key to making this happen without damaging either car and to keep everyone safe.
Diagnosing Common Problems
What's leaking under my car? Is the color of my exhaust okay? Should my engine sound like that? We've all asked these questions and you can get a pretty good idea of what's causing many problems without going to the mechanic.The three H's—hazy, hot and humid—are probably the most common cause of fluid leaking from a car. A car's air conditioner needs to do something with the moisture it removes from the air inside the passenger compartment. It drains the water onto the ground under the car, via a rubber hose..
Your exhaust can also lead you to necessary repairs. White, blue, or black smoke coming out of your exhaust will each point you in a different direction. It may be a problem with engine valves or your head gasket and it's best not to delay when you see these problems because they can get worse.
In addition, you should be listening for unusual sounds and which part of the car they're coming from. There are also common signs that you're low on power steering fluid and when something may be wrong with your brakes. Other common car problems include overheating and that unbearable moment when your car simply won't turn over.
The good news is that there is a reason for everything in auto mechanics. It's just a matter of narrowing it down to the real problem. That is why mechanics—pros and amateurs alike—use onboard diagnostics (OBD) to help them find these problems quickly.
Basic DIY Car Repairs
For some car repairs, you may be better off getting it to the mechanic, However, there are a number of things that you can do in your own garage. Some tasks like changing your oil or flushing the coolant are good DIY projects that can save a lot of money each year.Beyond regular maintenance, almost anyone can change a headlight bulb or any of your rear lights. For these jobs, it's a good idea to have that repair manual so you don't turn a small issue into a big problem.
Many home mechanics can also tackle things like plugging a tire, replacing spark plugs, and even changing a turn signal relay. However, we don't suggest taking on those projects unless you know how to check your oil or top off your windshield washer fluid first.
