fbpx

DIY Car Maintenance: Master the Basics and Save Money

While it is important to regularly visit a trusted auto repair shop to have your car inspected and serviced, there is also a sense of satisfaction that many drivers find in maintaining and fixing their car themselves.

But when should you bring your car to a place like Welsh Automotive Specialties versus trying to service your car yourself? Here is our guide to when you can try to service your vehicle at home, or when you should trust the professionals at Welsh Automotive Specialties to professionally handle it.

brake problems, west chester brake inspection

1. Oil and Oil Filter Changes

Performing an oil change and replacing the oil filter is a common DIY car maintenance task — if you feel confident in handling that kind of maintenance. Getting regular oil changes is a major part of ongoing maintenance for your vehicle’s engine and prolonging its lifespan.

To carry out this task, you will need some basic tools, the appropriate type of oil, a new oil filter, and an oil pan to collect the old oil. It is important to adhere to the owner’s manual recommended frequency and type of oil changes.

If you do not feel comfortable, our team of trusted mechanics in West Chester and Exton, PA are here to help with all your oil changes. Give our team a call and schedule an appointment today for your next routine oil change.

2. Replacing Air Filters

Air filters play a crucial role in keeping dirt and dust out of your car’s engine. By changing your car’s air filter, you can improve its fuel efficiency. This process is relatively simple and does not require any special tools, making it an easy task for most owners. You can refer to your car’s manual to know how often you should change the air filter, but generally, it is recommended to change it every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.

3. Replacing Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are a basic but important part of keeping you safe on the road. But when they wear and tear, you can expect to have more difficulty seeing and your front window can become damanged.

The good news is that replacing windshield wipers is a pretty straightforward task. All you need to do is purchase compatible wiper blades for your vehicle, remove the old ones, and install the new ones by following the instructions provided.

Not sure where to buy new wipers? We sell top-rated parts and can help you get your wipers replaced if needed!

4. Checking and Topping Up Fluids

Apart from engine oil, other important fluids in your vehicle include coolant, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Checking these regularly and topping them up when needed is an easy but important task and something most owners can do from home.

Each of these fluids has its own designated area under the hood. Simply use your vehicle’s manual for details on where to find them and the recommended levels.

west chester auto repair, brake service west bradford, brake service west chester pa car maintenance

Services that only a trusted auto repair shop should handle

While rolling up your sleeves and maintaining your car or truck at home can help you save money, there are some service tasks that only a trusted professional mechanic should handle. And if you fail to correctly service your own car, there can be serious consequences like voiding your manufacturer’s warranty or damaging your vehicle more than initially needed.

If you need one of these items serviced, we suggest you give our West Chester auto repair shop a call so you can avoid trouble and have a trained mechanic handle it.

Transmission Repairs

The transmission system in a vehicle is responsible for shifting gears smoothly and accurately and involves quite a bit of complex machinery. Repairing or replacing it requires specialized knowledge and tools that most DIY enthusiasts do not have.

Electrical Diagnostics and Repairs

Modern vehicles contain intricate electrical systems that control everything from the engine management system to the cabin comfort features. Diagnosing and repairing issues within these systems often requires diagnostic tools that you would not have in your own garage. With our diagnostic tests, we can ensure you reliably get your electrical issues diagnosed.

Brake Pads or Brake Fluid Adjustments

The braking system is a crucial safety component that requires more than just replacing brake pads or discs. Complicated tasks like bleeding the brake lines, replacing brake lines or hoses, and servicing or replacing the master cylinder require not only specialized knowledge, but specialized and professional tools.

It is often best for a mechanic or auto repair shop to diagnose and service any brake pads, rotors, wheels, or any other issues your brakes may be experiencing.

Our Exton and West Chester auto repair business is here to help with all your brake service needs. Leave it to the professionals and get peace of mind that your car’s brakes are safe and secure.

Professional West Chester Auto Repair Services | Welsh Automotive Specialties

Before attempting any DIY car maintenance, always make sure you are confident and familiar with the task at hand. While servicing your own vehicle can be rewarding, it also can lead to more problems if you are not careful.

Do not hesitate to call one of our experienced mechanics and schedule an appointment to bring your car in for professional auto repair services in Chester County. Our team of honest and reliable local mechanics will keep your vehicle running its best for the safety of you and your loved ones. Remember that safety should always be the priority.

You can contact our team today to request an appointment or get your questions answered.

west chester auto repair, west bradford auto repair