Engine Repair You Can Tackle On Your Own

When it comes to their cars, most people are more than willing to trust the mechanic. Engines seem complicated and mistakes can be costly. While it is always a good idea to trust a mechanic when you think the job is more than you can handle, there is no shame in tackling some engine repair on your own. Here are some common repairs that you can handle on your own, provided you have a decent level of DIY smarts.

First, you need to get over the fear factor. Understand that it is very difficult to completely ruin engines. Yes, it can happen, but most of the time any mistakes you make can be fixed. That should help you feel calmer.

Also, make friends with your computer. The Internet is an invaluable resource for information about fixing cars. You can find detailed instructions, with videos or step-by-step images, to help you with your engine repair. Often, seeing how it is done is the first step in doing it yourself. These guides will also help you decide if this is truly something you can do on your own, or if you need professional help.

Before you begin fixing anything, you will want to have the right tools. Most of the time you will need an adjustable wrench, a variety of screwdrivers, a jack, a torque wrench, a socket and ratchet set, and pliers. If you are missing any of these tools, then you will want to pick them up before you begin. As you shop for tools, make sure they have a good grip, so look for ones with heavy, solid handles.

So, what jobs can you tackle on your own? One is replacing a work or broken belt. Broken belts keep engines from working, but they are not hard to replace. When inspecting your car, always check the belts for signs of weir, such as cracks or looseness. Replace them when you need to. If they are loose, you might be able to get away with tightening them using a tensioner pulley rather than replacing them.

The battery and alternator is another common type of engine repair that you can, realistically, do on your own. Before replacing a battery, make sure the car does not need to be jumped. If jumping the car does not work, purchase a multimeter to test the battery. Replace if needed, but if the battery is testing fine, you may need to replace an alternator. This is a simple job that you should be able to handle on your own.

Finally, while not technically engine repair, you can handle many maintenance tasks on your own. Replacing filters, spark plugs, and old oil is not hard once you learn how, and you can save a significant chunk of change doing these on your own. For other jobs, consider hiring a professional, but for these simple tasks, you can, and maybe even should, try to DIY.

By: Andrew Stratton

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