Royal Purple

Issue date: 11/18/09 Section: Opinion

Joseph Luther [Click to enlarge]

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and not long, after Wisconsin will be covered in snow. Every car should have a good tune-up before winter, but students can save money by doing some of these repairs by themselves. Here are some tips to ensure you don’t go too far and tackle something that could be hazardous to your vehicle.

-Before the snow starts falling each driver should check the battery, coolant, wipers, washer fluid, rear defroster and check for more complicated problems like leaks. If you’re unfamiliar with your vehicle and hesitate to change the oil on your own chances are you probably shouldn’t tackle these tasks alone. Have a friend help you change the oil, spark plugs and maybe even try to change some belts.

-If you know someone who is a car whiz, try and watch someone do the repair you want to attempt before you attempt it yourself. It’s a good way to gauge how comfortable you feel with doing the repair yourself.

-If you’re using the flimsy jack that came in your car to prop the car up will you work under it chances are it's not that safe. If you don't have the right equipment to keep yourself safe while working on your car, don’t attempt any repairs.

-A lot of repairs can be handled with a short list of tools. A socket set, open-end and box wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers and vise-grips can handle most simple jobs. Very few people have every tool needed to fully repair a car and the average person doesn’t need these. Chances are if you need tools other than these that you don't have already you probably shouldn't attempt the repair.

-Always do your homework on repairs you are not familiar with. Buy the manufacturer’s shop manual for your vehicle, and it will save you some trouble in the long run. Reading  the manual is the first step in determining whether you can tackle the job.

-Last but not least, don’t be afraid to own up to your mistakes. If you attempted a repair that was out of your league and screw up don’t be ashamed to tell your mechanic. It will save you and the mechanic time and money if you own up to your mistake.

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