DIY Basic Car Service at Home in the USA and Finding Parts at NextGen Auto
- Next Gen Auto
- Sep 5
- 4 min read
Maintaining your car might seem challenging, especially if you're not an expert. Yet, with a bit of guidance, you can perform essential services at home. Not only does doing it yourself save you money, but it also empowers you and helps deepen your understanding of your vehicle. In this post, we will look at how to conduct basic car services at home in the USA and how to find quality parts at NextGen Auto.
Understanding Basic Car Maintenance
Routine car maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. Regular inspections can help you spot possible issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Here are some fundamental services you can handle yourself:
Oil Change: Regular oil changes are essential for engine health. Depending on your vehicle's requirements, this may need to be done every 3,000 to 7,500 miles. For instance, synthetic oils often allow for longer intervals, sometimes up to 10,000 miles.
Tire Rotation and Pressure Check: Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles ensures even wear, which can enhance tire life by up to 50%. Moreover, maintaining correct tire pressure can improve your fuel efficiency by about 3% per 1 PSI drop in pressure.
Brake Inspection: Regularly check your brake pads and rotors for optimal safety. If you hear unusual sounds while braking, it may indicate that brake pads are wearing out. Replacing them can improve braking efficiency significantly.
Air Filter Replacement: A clean air filter is vital for optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. You can replace it every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, which could improve mileage by 10%.
Battery Maintenance: Inspect battery terminals for corrosion and ensure connections are tight. If your battery is over three years old, it might be worth testing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
By getting to know these basic services, you can help keep your car in good shape and prevent expensive repairs.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start with DIY car service, make sure you have the right tools. Here are some essentials that should be in your garage:
Wrenches and Sockets: A decent set will help you with most repair jobs.
Oil Filter Wrench: This tool simplifies the oil filter replacement process.
Jack and Jack Stands: For safety, always use jack stands when working beneath your vehicle.
Tire Pressure Gauge: Essential for keeping your tire pressure in check.
Pliers and Screwdrivers: Various sizes of pliers and screwdrivers will be useful for several tasks.
Equipping yourself with these tools makes your DIY car service much easier to handle.
Step-by-Step Guide to Basic Car Service
1. Changing the Oil
Changing your oil is one of the most necessary maintenance tasks. Here's a straightforward way to do it:
Gather Supplies: You’ll need new oil, an oil filter, an oil filter wrench, and a drain pan.
Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for about 5 minutes to warm the oil, as this helps it drain easier.
Drain the Old Oil: Position the drain pan beneath the oil pan. Remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain entirely.
Replace the Oil Filter: Using the oil filter wrench, remove the old filter and install the new one.
Add New Oil: Replace the drain plug and pour new oil through the oil filler cap.
2. Rotating Tires
Proper tire rotation helps ensure even wear. Here’s a simple method to follow:
Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack and secure it with jack stands.
Remove Tires: Unscrew the lug nuts and take off the tires.
Rotate: Move the front tires to the back while switching sides.
Reinstall Tires: Place the tires back on and tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.
3. Checking Brake Pads
To inspect your brake pads:
Remove the Wheel: Lift the vehicle and take off the wheel.
Inspect the Pads: Check the thickness of the brake pads. If they appear to be less than a quarter-inch thick, they need replacing.
Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and lower the vehicle.
Finding Quality Parts at NextGen Auto
When doing car maintenance yourself, sourcing quality parts is essential. NextGen Auto provides a diverse selection of high-quality automotive parts for various makes and models. Here’s how to get the most out of your shopping experience:
1. Online Shopping
NextGen Auto has a user-friendly website where you can search for parts by vehicle make, model, and year. This feature simplifies your search and helps you find the correct parts quickly.
2. Quality Assurance
NextGen Auto focuses on delivering high-quality parts. Always check for warranties and return policies to make sure your purchase is safe and worthwhile.
3. Customer Support
If you are uncertain about which part to choose, don't hesitate to contact NextGen Auto's customer support. They are there to provide guidance and answer your questions.
4. Local Pickup Options
Prefer shopping in person? Check if NextGen Auto has a local store nearby. This option lets you inspect parts before buying, ensuring they fit your needs.
Wrapping It Up
Car servicing at home can be a smart and fulfilling way to maintain your vehicle. With the right tools and knowledge, you can keep your car in excellent condition while saving money. Always source your parts from trusted suppliers like NextGen Auto to guarantee quality. Embrace the DIY approach, and take charge of your car maintenance today!
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