Basic Tune up on a car

In between routine oil changes and scheduled maintenance, cars can go a pretty long time without getting even a brief once-over from a professional. Luckily, some things that normally need checking or changing can be serviced right at home. Not only can doing this kind of simple maintenance save money in the long run, it can actually make the long run many miles longer.

While car repair can be an intimidating subject to explore, taking charge of your own vehicle’s basic maintenance and repairs can be very satisfying. With some preparation and hand tools, you will get to learn in detail about the machine you use on a daily basis - and save yourself some time, money, and stress by doing basic repairs on your own.

No matter what type of repair or service your vehicle needs, there are four areas in which to be prepared that will allow you to better handle questions and concerns regarding basic maintenance and repair on your vehicle. With preparation in the areas listed below, you can feel confident to try a basic repair yourself.

Part 1 of 10: Prepare your materials for a tune-up and possible repairs

No matter what type of repair or service your vehicle needs, there are four areas in which to be prepared that will allow you to better handle questions and concerns regarding basic maintenance and repair on your vehicle. With preparation in all areas listed in the steps below, you can feel confident to try a basic repair yourself.

Step 1: Get a service manual for your car. It is highly recommended that anyone preparing to do work on their own vehicle should first purchase a quality service manual that is specific to that vehicle.

Haynes is highly recommended and makes service manuals for practically every vehicle on the road today. The book is easy to read and will give you detailed information about every system found in and on your vehicle, as well as providing step-by-step instructions on how to perform different repair or maintenance procedures.

Step 2: Get an OBD-II scanner. An OBD-II scanner is a must-have if you plan on repairing a vehicle newer than 1996.