If you own a car, you already know it can end up with a wide range of problems. From the everyday tweaks to complex engine repair, dealing with vehicle issues can be stressful, time-consuming, and costly. Luckily, there are lots of things you can do on your own to fix a simple car problem. Here are a few easy fixes for some of the most typical car problems drivers face.
A Dead Battery
When your car battery dies, it’s extremely frustrating. Thankfully, you can get your car back on the road with a simple jumpstart. Always carry jumper cables in your trunk in case you need them. Hopefully, a good Samaritan can give you a jump but if not, supplemental roadside assistance is another great choice. Just be sure to have your battery tested as soon as you can in case it’s a more serious car problem, officially dead, or it may just need a quick recharge.
Flat Tires
Getting a flat tire is frustrating and even dangerous. If you’ve run over a nail and have a puncture in the tire, you can use tire sealant to seal up the hole until you get it checked out. A quality tire sealant should also inflate the tire so you can get to a local mechanic safely. Keep a spare tire in your trunk in case you have a total blowout, and make sure you have all the tools you need to change it. With these two items in tow, you can get the tire fixed and then further inspected for damage.
A Headlight is Out
You need your headlights at night, so when they go out, it’s a serious situation. Depending on your car’s make and model, changing the bulb is usually fairly easy. Read your owner’s manual thoroughly and determine how to remove the cover and change the bulb. There should be a wire harness and clip that holds the bulb in place. Carefully remove it and replace it with a new one. If you have a newer vehicle, you may need to visit your mechanic since the halogen and other new bulbs are a bit more complicated to replace.
Wiper Blades Gone Bad
Wiper blades are essential for driving in inclement weather, and when they’re bad, you can potentially be driving in danger. Always keep a spare set of blades with you in case the current ones have completely worn down. Changing wiper blades is extremely easy and you don’t want to get stuck in rain or snow without a clear windshield. Slide the clip that attaches the blade to the arm and then install a new one into the same spot. Just make sure it clicks securely in place so it doesn’t fly off when you use it.
While not all repairs are simple, these quick fixes are some things you can do in a pinch to ensure you’re back on the road safely and quickly.
For all your vehicle’s maintenance and repair needs, call Fairfax Auto Repair in Fairfax, VA and schedule an appointment today!
