Preparation Tips for DIY Car Repair

So, you are a certified DIY weekend mechanic, and you have the skills required to carry out basic car repair and maintenance routines such as oil changes and tire rotations. Notably, simple car repairs can be refreshing for DIY enthusiasts, and you end up saving time and money. However, how ready are you if a significant car repair task comes along? If you are not sure that you can successfully take out and replace several engine hoses, then you need to call a vehicle repair professional. If you are planning to tackle this project yourself, here is what you need to know.

Set Up Workplace

An oil change or tire change can be done anywhere within your garage regardless of the amount of space available. However, the same cannot be said when you need to remove the engine or take out the exhaust system. For these kinds of repairs, you need all the space you can get to manoeuvre car parts with ease. Therefore, ensure that you clear out your garage before commencing the repair work on your vehicle. Ideally, you want the car to occupy the centre of the garage to create some free working space around.

Be Patient

You only need a couple of minutes to change the fluids in your car or even clean the filters. However, if you hold the same mentality with any significant repair, then you are in for a shocker. For example, do not expect to take the same duration as a professional mechanic. Since you are not a professional mechanic, it is essential to remain patient.  Get comfortable with the fact that a significant car repair might take you several days or weeks. The reason is that you need to make several trips to an auto shop for parts, tools and consultation. Besides, keep in mind that there are days when frustrations might halt your progress. Therefore, remain patient.

Take Pictures and Label Everything

Significant repairs on a car involve taking apart several components. Therefore, you are bound to forget where each bolt, washer or clip goes. It pays to be organised from the word go, and you can accomplish this by taking photos and labelling each part. Ensure that you indicate where each piece came from and what its orientation was. You can also write on a component directly if it is big enough. Once it is time to bring everything together, just refer to your notes, photos and labels for easy assembly.

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