5 Major Car Breakdowns You Can Fix Yourself

Car breakdowns can be a pain in the butt and expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Some basic knowledge of mechanics and tools can get you back on the road in no time. Find out what common car breakdowns you can fix yourself, and how you should fix them!

How to Fix a Flat Tire

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If you’re stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire, don’t despair! You can fix it yourself with a few simple tools.

First, locate your spare tire and jack. If you don’t have a spare tire, you can use a can of fix-a-flat or a tire inflator to temporarily repair the puncture.

Next, loosen the lug nuts on your wheel with a wrench. Then, place the jack under the car and raise the car until the wheel is off the ground.

Remove the flat tire and replace it with your spare. Tighten the lug nuts and lower the car to the ground.

If you don’t have a spare tire, use your fix-a-flat or inflator to pump up the tire. Then drive slowly to a nearby service station to have the tire repaired or replaced.

How to Change a Battery

If your car battery is starting to show signs of age, it may be time to change it. Here’s how:

1. Park your car in a safe location and turn off the engine.

2. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal of the battery using a wrench.

3. Disconnect the battery’s positive (+) terminal using a wrench.

4. Remove the old battery from its housing and dispose of it properly.

5. Place the new battery in the housing and connect the positive (+) terminal first, followed by the negative (-) terminal.

6. Start your car’s engine and let it run for a few minutes to charge the new battery.

How to Fix a Headlight

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If a headlight goes out, fixing it as soon as possible is important. Driving without a headlight is illegal in most states. Here’s how to fix a headlight:

1. Find the fuse box in your car and locate the fuse for the headlights.

2. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.

3. If the fuse isn’t blown, check the bulbs. Most headlight bulbs can be accessed by removing the plastic cover over them.

4. If the bulb is burned, replace it with a new one. Make sure to insert the new bulb in the correct orientation – usually there is a diagram on the side of the housing that shows which way to insert the bulb.

5. If neither the fuse nor the bulb is at fault, there may be a problem with the wiring or connector. You’ll need to consult your car’s repair manual for further troubleshooting steps.

How to Fix Windshield Wipers

When it comes to fixing your windshield wipers, you can do a few things to get them working properly again. First, check the blade itself to see if it is damaged or bent. If so, you will need to replace it.

Next, check the wiper arm to see if it is loose or broken. If so, you will need to replace it as well.

Finally, check the windshield washer fluid reservoir to see if it is empty. If so, fill it up with washer fluid and try the wipers again.

How to Fix a Car Door Latch

If your car door latch is broken, there are a few things you can do to fix it yourself.

1. First, try lubricating the latch with WD-40 or another lubricant. This may fix the problem if the latch is simply sticking.

2. If the latch is still not working properly, you may need to replace it. You can purchase a replacement door latch at most auto parts stores.

3. To install the new door latch, remove the old one and screw in the new one in its place. Make sure the new latch is tightened securely before testing it out.

With these simple steps, you should be able to fix your car door latch yourself without taking it to a mechanic.

Conclusion

We hope this article has given you some insight into the most common car breakdowns and how to fix them yourself. While it’s always best to consult a professional if you’re unsure about something, knowing how to fix these issues can save you time and money in the long run.

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