20 Best Do It Yourself Maintenance Hacks for Car Owners

Car owners need to understand maintenance hacks because they offer practical ways to save money, time, and extend the life of the vehicle. By knowing simple Do It Yourself maintenance tricks, they can avoid frequent trips to the mechanic for minor issues, such as oil changes, tire checks, or battery care.

These hacks also empower car owners to troubleshoot problems on the go, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and expensive repairs. Additionally, understanding car maintenance improves overall driving safety, ensuring the vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

20 Best Do It Yourself Maintenance Hacks for Car Owners

Do you know that regular maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle in top shape? While many tasks can be handled by professionals, there are plenty of Do It Yourself hacks that can help you save money and gain a better understanding of your car.

Here are 20 detailed Do It Yourself maintenance hacks to help you maintain your vehicle like a pro.

1. Keep Your Car Battery Clean Regularly

Why it Matters: Corrosion can hinder battery performance and lead to starting issues.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Baking soda, water, toothbrush, and a wrench.

Steps:

1. Turn off your vehicle and remove the battery terminals using a wrench (negative terminal first).
2. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water to create a paste.
3. Apply the paste to the corroded areas using a toothbrush.
4. Scrub gently to remove corrosion, then rinse with clean water.
5. Dry the terminals thoroughly before reconnecting them (positive terminal first).

2. Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Why it Matters: Proper tire pressure improves fuel efficiency and ensures safety.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Tire pressure gauge and air compressor.

Steps:

1. Remove the valve cap from the tire.
2. Press the tire pressure gauge onto the valve stem firmly.
3. Read the gauge and note the pressure.
4. Compare the reading to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door).
5. If the pressure is low, use an air compressor to inflate the tire to the recommended level.

3. Rotate Your Car Tires At When Due

Why it Matters: Rotating tires promotes even wear and extends tire life.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Jack, jack stands, and a lug wrench.

Steps:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and loosen the lug nuts on the wheels (do not remove them).
2. Use a jack to lift one side of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
3. Remove the lug nuts and take off the tire.
4. Follow the rotation pattern in your owner’s manual (usually front to back or side to side).
5. Reinstall the tires and tighten the lug nuts securely. Repeat for the other side.

4. Change Your Engine Air Filter

Why it Matters: A clean air filter improves engine performance and fuel efficiency.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: New air filter (check owner’s manual for specifications).

Steps:

1. Open the hood and locate the air filter housing.
2. Release the clips or screws holding the housing cover in place.
3. Remove the old air filter and check for dirt or damage.
4. Insert the new air filter, ensuring it fits snugly.
5. Replace the housing cover and secure it with clips or screws.

5. Use a Toothbrush for Cleaning The Car Interior

Why it Matters: A clean interior enhances your driving experience and preserves the vehicle’s condition.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Old toothbrush, mild soap, water, microfiber cloth.

Steps:

1. Mix a small amount of soap with water in a bowl.
2. Dip the toothbrush into the solution and scrub air vents, cup holders, and crevices.
3. Wipe away dirt with a microfiber cloth.
4. For stubborn stains, allow the soapy water to sit for a few minutes before wiping.

6. Replace Windshield Wipers

Why it Matters: Worn wipers can obscure your view during rain, compromising safety.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: New windshield wiper blades.

Steps:

1. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
2. Locate the release tab on the wiper blade and press it to remove the old blade.
3. Align the new blade with the arm and click it into place.
4. Gently lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield.
5. Repeat for the other wiper.

7. Change Engine Oil Regularly

Why it Matters: Fresh oil lubricates the engine and improves performance.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: New oil, oil filter, wrench, oil catch pan, funnel.

Steps:

1. Warm up the engine for a few minutes (to thin the oil).
2. Turn off the engine and position the oil catch pan under the oil pan.
3. Remove the oil drain plug with a wrench and let the old oil drain completely.
4. Replace the drain plug and remove the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench.
5. Install the new oil filter and tighten it by hand.
6. Pour new oil into the engine through the oil fill cap using a funnel (refer to the manual for the correct amount and type).
7. Start the engine and let it run for a minute, then check for leaks.

8. Inspect Brake Pads

Why it Matters: Worn brake pads can reduce braking efficiency and endanger safety.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench.

Steps:

1. Lift the vehicle and remove the wheel.
2. Inspect the brake pads through the caliper. If the pads are less than 1/4 inch thick, they should be replaced.
3. To replace, remove the caliper bolts and slide the caliper off the pads.
4. Replace the old pads with new ones, ensuring they fit properly.
5. Reinstall the caliper and tighten the bolts securely.

9. Clean and Wax the Exterior

Why it Matters: Regular cleaning and waxing protect the paint and enhance appearance.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Car wash soap, sponge, hose, wax, microfiber cloth.

Steps:

1. Rinse the car with water to remove loose dirt.
2. Mix car wash soap with water in a bucket and use a sponge to wash the car, starting from the top down.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove soap.
4. Dry the car with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
5. Apply wax according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a foam applicator.
6. Buff the wax with a clean microfiber cloth for a shiny finish.

10. Monitor Fluid Levels

Why it Matters: Maintaining proper fluid levels prevents breakdowns and keeps the car running smoothly.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Clean cloth, funnel, and appropriate fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.).

Steps:

1. Open the hood and locate the fluid reservoirs (usually marked).
2. Check the level against the markings on each reservoir.
3. If any fluid is low, use a funnel to add the appropriate fluid type until it reaches the recommended level.
4. Replace the cap securely after checking.

11. Flush and Replace Coolant

Why it Matters: Flushing coolant prevents engine overheating and ensures efficient cooling.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: New coolant, water, coolant flush kit (optional), wrench.

Steps:

1. Let the engine cool completely, then locate the radiator drain plug.
2. Position a catch pan under the drain plug and remove it to drain the old coolant.
3. Close the drain plug after all coolant has drained.
4. Mix the new coolant with water (as per manufacturer’s specifications).
5. Open the radiator cap and pour the new mixture into the radiator until full.
6. Start the engine and let it run until warm, checking for leaks.
7. Top off the coolant as needed and replace the radiator cap.

12. Use Vinegar for Foggy Headlights

Why it Matters: Clear headlights improve visibility at night and during inclement weather.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Vinegar, baking soda, soft cloth.

Steps:

1. Mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda to create a paste.
2. Apply the paste to the foggy headlight lens using a soft cloth.
3. Scrub gently in circular motions for a few minutes.
4. Rinse the lens with clean water and dry with a clean cloth.
5. For extra protection, apply a coat of car wax to the lens.

13. Remove Car Stains with Club Soda

Why it Matters: Keeping your car’s interior clean enhances its value and your driving experience.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Club soda, clean cloth or sponge.

Steps:

1. Pour club soda directly onto the stain.
2. Blot the area gently with a clean cloth or sponge, working from the outside of the stain inward.
3. Continue blotting until the stain lifts.
4. Rinse the area with clean water and blot dry.

14. Use Baking Soda for Odor Elimination

Why it Matters: Baking soda effectively neutralizes odors in your car’s interior, providing a fresh driving experience.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Baking soda, vacuum cleaner, small container.

Steps:

1. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the car’s carpets and upholstery.
2. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes (longer for strong odors).
3. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly, ensuring you remove all residue.
4. For added freshness, place an open container of baking soda under the seats or in the cup holder to absorb odors over time.

15. Fix Minor Scratches with Nail Polish

Why it Matters: Touching up small scratches helps maintain your car’s appearance and protects the paint.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Clear nail polish or matching car paint.

Steps:

1. Clean the scratched area with soap and water, then dry thoroughly.
2. Apply a thin layer of clear nail polish or matching car paint directly to the scratch.
3. Allow it to dry completely, and if necessary, apply additional coats until the scratch is no longer visible.
4. Buff the area gently with a microfiber cloth for a smooth finish.

16. Maintain Your Cabin Air Filter

Why it Matters: A clean cabin air filter ensures good air quality and efficient HVAC performance.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: New cabin air filter (check owner’s manual for specifications).

Steps:

1. Locate the cabin air filter access panel (usually under the dashboard or behind the glove compartment).
2. Open the panel and remove the old filter.
3. Compare the old filter to the new one to ensure a correct fit.
4. Insert the new filter in the same orientation as the old one.
5. Close the access panel securely.

17. Use Cornstarch to Clean Windows

Why it Matters: Cornstarch is a natural cleaner that leaves windows streak-free.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Cornstarch, water, spray bottle, microfiber cloth.

Steps:

1. Mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with two cups of water in a spray bottle.
2. Shake well to combine the ingredients.
3. Spray the solution on the windows and wipe with a microfiber cloth in circular motions.
4. For tough spots, let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping.

18. Apply a Protectant on Your Dashboard

Why it Matters: A protectant helps prevent fading and cracking due to UV exposure.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Dashboard protectant (like a UV protectant spray).

Steps:

1. Clean the dashboard with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris.
2. Apply the protectant according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically by spraying directly onto the surface.
3. Wipe with a clean cloth to distribute evenly and prevent streaking.
4. Allow it to dry before using the vehicle.

19. Check Serpentine Belts, Timing Belt and Hoses

Why it Matters: Worn belts and hoses can lead to engine problems and breakdowns.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: None.

Steps:

1. Open the hood and visually inspect all belts and hoses for signs of wear, such as cracks, fraying, or leaks.
2. Check that belts are tight (they should not move more than half an inch when pressed).
3. Replace any worn or damaged belts and hoses according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
4. If uncertain, consult a professional for a thorough inspection.

20. Keep Spare Fluids on Hand

Why it Matters: Having spare fluids can help you address minor issues before they become major problems.

How to Do It:

Materials Needed: Spare oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

Steps:

1. Purchase spare fluids that are compatible with your vehicle, checking the owner’s manual for specifications.
2. Store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
3. Regularly check your fluid levels and top off as needed.
4. Replace any fluids that are past their expiration date or showing signs of contamination.

Conclusion

By implementing these 20 Do It Yourself maintenance hacks, you can keep your car running smoothly and extend its lifespan. Regular maintenance not only improves your vehicle’s performance but also saves you money in the long run.

Whether you’re cleaning the headlights, rotating your tires, or changing the oil, these hacks will help you take better care of your car. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in maintaining your vehicle!