Can I Service My Own Car?

Can I Service My Own Car? Getting your car serviced regularly can be costly. Instead of skipping a service, there are some things you can do to keep your car in optimum running condition.

To help cut down on repair costs and having to fork out for a full service you can service your own car. These simple steps will allow you to service your own car and save you money in the long run.

#1. Change the oil

The first thing you need to do is to drain the old engine oil. At the bottom of your engine is a sump where this oil sits removing the plug you can drain the old oil. When replacing the sump plug be careful, some plugs come with a washer, and each time you drain the oil to ensure it remains tight and sealed.

Once the oil stops flowing the next step is to replace the oil filter. You can either purchase a tool in a motor store use a screwdriver as oil filters have soft walls, and this can help you comfortably unscrew it by giving you enough leverage.

Once the flow of oil is completely stopped you can throw away the old filter and replace it with a new one. You should dispose of the old oil in an environmentally friendly way.

#2 Replace old filters

Your engine contains several filters that need to be regularly replaced at least you can easily do on your own. Your fuel filter is usually in a fuel line or near your fuel tank. It’s important to replace this that you get the direction of your fuel flow correct, otherwise it’ll interfere with the running of the engine.

Security clipping each side of the fuel line at the end of the filter using a specialized jubilee clip is the best way to ensure it’s comfortably and safely replaced. The other important filter in your engine is your air filter and is probably the easiest thing in the whole engine to replace.

Once again you should always check that it’s installed correctly and facing the right direction otherwise this will prevent your car engine from getting the air needs.

3. Change the spark plugs

Changing your spark plugs is one of the first things that will happen during a major service are your spark plugs. But these are easy to replace with the right equipment and making sure that you have the correct plug for the model and make of your car.

Once you’re careful about the Gap in the spark plug which has been set by your car manufacturer and meets the specific needs of the engine replacing the spark plug is straightforward.

You will need to purchase specialized spark plug spanner ones that come with rubber inserts as they can hold the spark plug in place so it can be easily lowered into the cavity of your engine. It’s important to never over tighten the spark plug as they are easy to break.

It’s also important to note the spark plug leads and replace them in the same order that you unplug them.

#4 Replace everything correctly

Before you refill the oil, make sure that your oil filter is correctly replaced and the sump plug with a new washer. The vast majority of cars will only need 4 liters of oil choosing a high grade oil will mean your car engine remains lubricated for longer.

Be careful when filling your car with oil use the dipstick to ensure the correct level. Once you reach this level run the engine for a minute and recheck before you finish. Topping up your brake fluid, radiator reservoir and windscreen washer fluid levels is is also something that you can easily do on your own.

Can I Service My Own Car? – Conclusion

One thing you should always note is your manufacturer’s warranty. If your car is still under warranty servicing it yourself may void this, so make sure you inquire about this before you start.

It’s also advisable to either contact your manufacturer or consult the owner’s handbook to find out exactly what type of service I recommended and the mileages after which they should carry all these services out.

The regular service history is important when selling your car, as it can increase its value exponentially.