Running a car can be an expensive endeavour. From the initial purchase cost to soaring fuel prices and insurance it can soon stretch your budget to the limit. Then it starts to fall to pieces and you’re soon exceeding your monthly budget getting it fixed at a local garage.
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Plug a Tyre
Few things are more annoying than having to fork out for a brand new tyre and the labour costs when there’s just a small nail sticking into it. Puncture problems can be fixed far more cheaply with DIY tyre plug kits which cost around £5.
It’s often easiest to remove the wheel featuring the offending object first. The tyre kit will include instructions but it’s helpful to watch a video of how it’s done first. Pull the nail out with pliers, clean out and roughen up the hole before sticking the threaded plugging tool into it so it sinks in and blocks the gap.
Replace Brake Pads
Changing your car’s brake pads may sound like a complex procedure but with the right tools and instructions it’s easy to achieve. You should know when to replace your pads as this is when they start to squeal when pressure is applied. A grinding sound means it is the rotor at fault.
A lift, jack stands and c-clamp are required but then it’s a relatively simple procedure of loosening and tightening the right bolts. Always test the newly refitted brakes on a quiet road at a slow pace first.
Swap Your Battery
Use a multimeter to test whether your battery or alternator are dead before attempting to replace it. If it is the battery then consult your car’s manual to see where it is and the best way to remove it.
Batteries can be heavy objects so ensure you have the right equipment and strength to remove it. Wrenches, a screwdriver and socket set are the essentials (and of course a fresh battery). It is best to do this with a helper in case of an accident dropping the battery and causing injury to yourself.
So there we have it. Go and get stuck in whilst saving money in the process.