Help Is On the Way

Nobody likes having their car serviced—it takes time and money. Did you know that with a few simple tools and an app or two for your smartphone or laptop, you can fix just about anything that's wrong with your car?

The Internet—Your Virtual Toolbox

YouTube is a great place to search for car repair information. You can find everything from high-tech subscription services that will teach you how to rebuild an engine to quick videos on how to change your wiper blades. Your App Store is another great resource—mechanics have gone digital to offer repair and maintenance guidance and most support either iOS or Droid. Many national retailers also are available as a mobile site and offer troubleshooting articles and videos as well as parts. 

Old School Toolbox

Once you're ready to get started, you'll need tools. A few basics are pliers, Phillips and flat head screwdrivers, torque, socket, and adjustable wrenches, rubber mallet, and a jack. Most cars come with a jack and some will have a toolbox packed in with the spare tire. It's not a bad idea to have some old shop rags and spray lubricant around as well. Kitty litter or play sand can come in handy if you're working  under the hood and might have some fluid leaks. Regardless, check your instructions before you take anything apart to ensure you have ALL the tools you will need.

Training Wheels

There are a few quick, simple repairs you can do to get acquainted with how your car is put together. They don't really require a trip to the mechanic to confirm the issue, just refer to your apps or owner's manual for routine maintenance and diagnostics. You can easily change light bulbs, fuses, wiper blades, and filters. After you master these minor tasks, you can move on to things like changing the oil or a tire. Once you've really gotten in the swing, you can tackle major repairs like brake pads. It's always a good idea to take the car into a mechanic, like Color Country Diesel Inc, to check your work and ensure it's roadworthy.

After you've done a few DIY repairs to your car and managed some of the maintenance, you will be able to take care of smaller jobs yourself. Even better, you will be much more confident when you do have to take it in to the mechanic for repairs that are beyond the scope of your home garage.