Wrenches & Nut Driver Tools For Advance Car Maintenance
There are a number of tasks the advanced DIYer can undertake to keep the vehicle running smoothly while saving money in the process. Most of these tasks require few tools and can be accomplished with a good set of Wrenches, including a 6”, 10” and 18”, and a solid nut driver set.
10 Common Car Maintenance Tasks
- Air Filters: Changing the air filter can be done easily and quickly in about 10 minutes or less. Plus, it will only cost the price of the filter which averages under $20 in most locations. Tools needed: nut driver set.
- Oil & Oil Filter: We will describe in our next blog the fine art of oil changes. Suffice it to say, it only takes about 40 minutes and the oil and filter parts, which typically cost under $50 (depending on brand and type). Tools needed: nut driver set, wrenches.
- Windshield Wipers: With 10 minutes of spare time and a $15 to $20 windshield wiper pair, you can replace your old wipers easily. Tools needed: none.
- Battery Connections: In under a half an hour, you can clean battery connections of corrosion, grime and debris buildup. Tools needed: baking soda, water and a $5 wire brush.
- Headlamp Replacement: For $100 or less, depending on the kind of headlamps your car requires, you can change headlamps in about 10 minutes. Tools needed: screwdrivers.
- Brake Pads: Taking a bit more time at about an hour and some proficiency, this task can still be accomplished for about $50—the average price of brake pads. Tools needed; jack, bungee cord, nut driver set, wrenches, C-clamp.
- Fuel Filter: For the cost of a new fuel filter at less than $30, this job can be completed in a half hour or less. Tools needed: wrenches, flathead screwdriver, and a nut driver set.
- Spark Plugs: For around $15 and 30 minutes of your time you can replace your old spark plugs with new ones. Tools needed: wrench, ratchet.
- Radiator Flush: In less than 45 minutes, and the right equipment such as flush solution, coolant receptacle and coolant, you can clear your radiator of built up sludge and debris for about $25. Tools needed: funnel, gloves.
- Fuse Replacement: In 10 minutes and a new fuse, you can replace a blown or melted fuse easily and quickly. Some cars come with spare fuses these days so this may cost you nothing. If yours does not, simply purchase what you need and replace according to car diagram instructions. Tools needed: none.