Owning a car is a milestone for many of us, and while it's incredibly convenient, maintaining it can feel overwhelming. As car owners, we often find ourselves facing high maintenance costs, especially with labor fees increasing in China.

Simple jobs like changing bulbs, air filters, and even air conditioning filters can cost twice as much in labor as they do in parts. If you're like me and prefer doing things yourself, you can save money and feel a sense of accomplishment in keeping your car in good shape.

Let's dive into some car maintenance essentials that we can handle ourselves!

Basic Tools Every Car Owner Should Have

First things first—make sure you're equipped with the right tools. Here are a few must-have items that will make your DIY car maintenance easier:

1. A 12-volt electric air pump with a pressure gauge (Price: 150-500 RMB). This tool allows you to inflate your tires easily by plugging it into the car's power outlet. Just remember: always use the pump while the engine is running to avoid draining the battery.

2. Emergency tire repair kit. Avoid using chemical tire sealants as they can damage your wheels and valves. Instead, get a repair kit with rubber strips or a mushroom plug repair tool. Both are simple to use and effective, though you'll need to practice a bit before using them on your own.

3. 12-volt car wash pump (with a bucket). This portable pump allows you to wash your car anywhere as long as you have water. Just make sure to keep the engine running to power the pump!

4. Outdoor gear: If you're an adventurer, consider having a tow rope, a spade, and a couple of thick wooden planks stored in your trunk for emergencies. But here's a crucial tip: never tow with an automatic transmission car, especially CVT models, as it can cause irreversible damage to the transmission.

5. A pair of sturdy jacks. If you plan on doing any work under the car, jacks are a must for safety. Always make sure the car is stable before working beneath it.

Simple Parts You Can Change Yourself

Now, let's talk about maintenance tasks that we can easily handle ourselves:

1. Bulbs, air filters, and AC filters. Changing these parts can save you a ton in labor fees. Simply follow the car manual for bulb replacement, and be sure not to install them backwards (check that the filament is correctly positioned). Air filters are located in the engine compartment and can be swapped out by unclipping the old one. The AC filter is usually hidden behind the glove compartment, so you might need to remove it to access and replace the filter.

2. Oil and oil filter changes. While oil changes are commonly done at the shop, you can buy oil and filters online to save on labor. If you're comfortable with it, use an oil pump to extract the old oil without needing to lift the car. And remember, always use high-quality oil to keep your engine running smoothly!

3. Brake pads. Checking and replacing brake pads is straightforward. Be sure to buy high-quality pads and avoid the cheap ones that might wear out faster. Also, remember to grease the caliper guide pins to keep everything working smoothly.

4. Coolant replacement. Replacing your car's coolant is an easy task that requires you to simply pour new coolant into the radiator. Just make sure to check the level regularly, and if you notice a drop, inspect for leaks.

5. Spark plugs. While spark plugs generally last a long time, if they do need to be replaced, make sure to buy high-quality ones. Use a spark plug wrench to remove and replace them, and always remember to lubricate the rubber ring with oil to ensure a proper seal.

6. Transmission fluid. Changing transmission fluid can be tricky without the right tools, but it's possible. You'll need a special hex wrench to remove the drain plug and a pump to refill the fluid. Make sure to use the correct type of fluid for your car's transmission.

Common DIY Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

While DIY car maintenance can save money, it's essential to avoid some common mistakes:

1. Over-tightening bolts. Whether you're replacing brake pads or changing a tire, be sure not to over-tighten bolts, as this can remove the threads or damage components.

2. Skipping routine checks. Don't skip regular maintenance like checking tire pressure, fluid levels, or replacing air filters. These small tasks help keep your car running smoothly and prevent bigger, more expensive issues down the line.

3. Not using the right parts. Always use parts that are designed for your specific car model. Going for generic or cheap parts might seem like a good idea at first, but they can lead to more problems later on.

Conclusion: Save Money and Avoid the Hassle

Taking care of your car yourself isn't just about saving money—it's also about having the satisfaction of knowing you've done the work yourself. With the right tools and a bit of knowledge, we can handle most of the basic maintenance tasks and avoid unnecessary trips to the repair shop. So, Lykkers, why not give some of these DIY tasks a try and see how much you can save? Your car—and your wallet—will thank you!