Getting started with car repairs as a beginner
If you’re a new driver, you might be feeling at a loss when it comes to car repairs. While some road users can fix just about anything that goes wrong with their vehicle, you might be struggling to change a tyre and have no idea how to work out what oil change time vs mileage is. But don’t worry, no matter how little you know about cars, you can get to grips with all the basics with just a little bit of time and effort. This blog will push you in the right direction, giving you the confidence you need to get started.
Familiarize yourself with the theory
Just like taking a driving test, you won’t be able to make any car repairs if you haven’t learnt about them first. Whether you decide to use a book or take to the internet, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with common car problems and how to fix them. Make sure you’re also paying attention to signs that your car is breaking down so you can nip issues in the bud before you actually get into trouble. If you’re more of a visual learner, there are plenty of videos online that can show you step by step how certain repairs are done.
Ask an experienced driver
If you know someone who has changed more tyres than they can count, reach out to them for help. It’s always easier to have someone show you how to perform a repair in person, explaining what you’re doing wrong and why. But if you don’t know anyone who can help you, consider signing up for a workshop or course that goes through all the basics you need to know. It’s better to be prepared than standing at the side of the road unsure of why your car won’t start up.
If in doubt, visit a mechanic
There’s nothing worse than making a small problem into something serious by tinkering around with your car when you don’t know what you’re doing. If you have any doubts about the problem at hand or aren’t sure you remembered the repair steps correctly, it’s time to back down and ask a professional.
Practice with an old car
Practising with an old motor you might have sitting in your garage will help you to learn how to make repairs with fewer risks. It doesn’t really matter if you don’t manage to get your tyre back on before you need to go to work, because your new, everyday car will be waiting for you in the driveway. However, you do need to be careful that the car you’re practising on isn’t too different to your actual car, as this could throw you off. Some models will have slightly different setups, so always do a comparison before you get stuck in.
Repairing your own car can be overwhelming in the beginning, but it’s an essential skill for all drivers to have. Spending just a bit of time building your skills can save you a lot of money in repairs further down the line.