Car Hacks: Easy DIY Fixes That Save Money

Getting your hands dirty and keeping up with car maintenance on your own can really cut down on auto bills. It may seem daunting, but there are a number of quick fixes you can do yourself to save on labor costs and up fuel efficiency.

#1: Replace Wiper Blades

Wiper blades typically have a six month lifespan, but can last up to one year depending on quality and use. Since they are something that needs regular maintenance, learning how to changing wiper blades yourself will save you a ton in the long run.

It costs anywhere between $100 and $150 to purchase and installer new blades at a shop or dealership. Since even the nicest wiper blades cost only a fraction of that, usually between $35 and $45, it’s easy to see the savings opportunity. Here’s an easy tutorial to get your started.

#2: Replace Air Filters

Air filters last about one year, or 12,000 miles, and cost about $15-$25 for the part itself. Labor can add on an additional $50-$75 to this price. Keeping up with air filter replacements can also save you about $270 a year by increasing fuel efficiency. Find out how to change your air filter yourself and enjoy the savings.

#3: Buy/Swap/Change Your Own Battery

Car batteries aren’t cheap. They typically range from $75 to $200. Nevertheless, you can save about $25 by trading in your old battery for a new one and installing it yourself. Here’s how to do it.

#4: Replace Spark Plugs

Spark plugs get your car going when you turn the key. They also need to be replaced about every 30,000 miles. AAA advises that drivers replace their spark plugs before they get down to 20% working capacity because it will ruin fuel efficiency and waste up to $450 in gas a year.

You can easily do this yourself to save on your car expenses too. Spark plugs only cost around $5-$20, but labor costs can add an additional $100-$200 to the bill. Learn how to do this yourself and save up hundreds during the life of your car. It’s easy and worthwhile.

#5: Replace Brake Pads

Brake pads last anywhere from 30,000 to 35,000 miles and are pretty expensive to have replaced by a mechanic. By spending about an hour working on your car, you can easily replace brake pads for $150-$200 and save up to $250 on labor costs. Find out how to do it yourself.

#6: Replace Lights

Bulbs range pretty drastically from basic to high quality HID types. While basic bulbs cost $15-$20, HID bulbs can run you upwards of $100 per bulb. No matter which bulb you choose, you can save money by installing them yourself.

#7: Keep Proper Tire Pressure

You can waste up to $600 a year on fuel if you drive on under-inflated tires. To save even more money, go to a gas station that has a free air pump and check your tire pressure often to see if you need to add a little air.

Remember Safety First!

We applaud your audacity to take things apart and put them back together, but please remember some safety rules if you’re a novice mechanic.