Top 5 DIY Automotive Repairs for Gen Z

For the tech-savvy and budget-conscious Gen Z, learning how to perform DIY car repairs can be a valuable skill set that saves money and increases independence. That being said, it's essential to approach these tasks with care, proper tools, and research.

This guide will provide an overview of the top 5 DIY car repairs that are accessible for young car enthusiasts looking to build their auto maintenance know-how.

1. Changing the Oil

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Gather Your Materials: You'll need new oil, a new oil filter, an oil pan, and a wrench.

2. Warm Up Your Car: Let your car run for about 5 minutes to warm up the oil for better flow.

3. Drain The Oil: Turn off the engine, place the oil pan under the drain plug, remove the plug with the wrench, and let the old oil drain out.

4. Replace the Oil Filter: Unscrew the old oil filter and screw in the new one. Make sure to lightly oil the gasket of the new filter with fresh oil.

5. Refill with New Oil: Replace the drain plug and refill the engine with new oil using the correct grade and quantity specified in your owner's manual.

6. Check the Levels: After filling, start your car for a minute, turn it off, and check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more if necessary.

2. Replacing Windshield Wipers

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Purchase the Correct Wipers: Make sure the new wipers are the right size for your car.

2. Remove the Old Wipers: Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield and press the tab that allows the wiper blade to be removed.

3. Attach New Blades: Slide the new wiper into the same arm and ensure it clicks into place.

4. Test the Wipers: Test the new wipers to ensure they work properly and make full contact with the windscreen.

3. Replacing Air Filters

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Locate the Air Filter Housing: Check your owner's manual to find the air filter housing box.

2. Open the Housing: Unclip or unscrew the air filter housing cover.

3. Remove and Replace the Filter: Take out the old filter, clean up any debris in the housing, and put in the new filter.

4. Secure the Housing: Clip or screw the housing cover back in place.

4. Changing a Tire

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Secure the Vehicle: Ensure your car is parked on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel wedges against the tires opposite the one you're changing.

2. Loosen the Lug Nuts: Use a lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise, but don't remove them entirely yet.

3. Lift the Vehicle: With a jack, lift the vehicle until the tire you're changing is off the ground.

4. Remove the Tire: Take off the loosened lug nuts, remove the tire, and set it aside.

5. Mount the New Tire: Place the spare tire on the wheel mount, screw the lug nuts on by hand, and partially tighten them with the wrench.

6. Lower the Vehicle and Tighten the Lug Nuts: Lower the car until the tire touches the ground but doesn't carry the full weight of the car. Tighten the nuts as much as possible.

7. Lower the Vehicle Completely: Bring the car fully to the ground and give the lug nuts one last pull with the wrench.

5. Replacing the Headlights or Taillights

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Determine the Bulb Type: Check your car's manual to find the correct bulb size and type.

2. Access the Light Compartment: Open the hood or trunk to access the back of the headlight or taillight assembly.

3. Remove the Old Bulb: Twist the bulb holder, pull it out, and gently remove the bulb.

4. Install the New Bulb: Without touching the glass with your fingers, insert the new bulb into the holder and twist it to lock into place.

5. Test the Lights: Ensure both headlights or taillights are functioning before hitting the road.

Remember, before attempting DIY automotive repairs, always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions and follow safety precautions. Not only will mastering these repairs save you money, but they’ll also instill confidence and prepare you for more challenging tasks down the road.