With the economy going down constantly, it seems that even our automobiles are suffering. The prices mechanics charge for simple car repairs often amaze customers. Car maintenance can drain your pockets fast but you can manage a wide range of repairs yourself, irrespective of your technical skills. To lessen some burden on your wallet you need not to be an auto expert, however it may seems a daunting task to enter the “do-it-yourself” route but it can be made easier by proper tools.

The common tools that you need for your repair:

• Socket and racket set
• Adjustable wrench.
• Torque wrench
• Pliers
• Jack
• Screwdrivers

Here, we are not talking about just the oil changes but everything ranging from filters to alternators provided you have a proper tool kit. Below are some lineups that will make you understand this rocket science in a much easier way.

• Replacing the oxygen sensor: Start by spraying a sensor with a good lubricant to loosen it up a bit. With the help of proper oxygen sensor wrench, open the bolts and drag it out with a little force. Now replace the old sensor with a new one by using the same wrench. Install the sensor with proper care so that you don’t cross thread the expensive sensor. Lastly, reconnect the wiring to the sensor and the job is done.
• Changing the air filters: Air filters must be changed after every 12000 miles. Check the car manual before you start with the process. Remove the old filter and make sure which way the filter sets. Install a new one in the correct manner and close the metal clips when you are done.
• Changing the windshield wipers: Lift the blades in the same way you do while washing the windshield and remove them. Check how they connect to the metal arms. Insert the new blades without scratching the mirror and bending the wiper arms. Make sure that the blades are installed tightly.
• Replacing the break pads: You will need a lug wrench, open end wrench, hammer and a bungee cord. Remove the lugs by removing the bottom nut first; this keeps the wheel in one place while you remove the rest of them. Remove the brake caliper by removing both the bolts at the back, pads will come out this way. After this pull out the old brake pads and place the new ones carefully.
• Battery maintenance: Remove your battery terminals by removing the battery cables first. Clean the posts by using any good cleanser as mentioned in your car manual, and dry the posts after cleaning. Replace the battery terminals.
• Replace the fuel filters: Fuel filters mainly filters ant dust particles that falls in the fuel before getting into the fuel line. Start by relieving the fuel filter pressure by locating the fuel pump on the fuse. Disconnect the fuel lines from the filters by sliding it off the bolt and set he bolt aside. Repeat the process for the other side of the filter. Change the fuel filter washers and place the new fuel filter.

These were some of the repairs you can do even when you are not mechanically inclined. By repairing the car yourself you can easily slash some unnecessary auto repair expenses. It is often recommended by the car repair experts that it is advisable to do the basic repairs by yourself but when it comes to the major maintenance of the car, you should look forward to good car repair services.
About Author:
Annie writes about automotive, finance, technology, marketing, events and home décor. She is fond of sharing her knowledge by posting articles that relate to all concerning topics. This very article says about Mechanical repairs related to cars.