If your car needs repair and you’re hesitant to visit a mechanic due to high costs, you’re not alone. In New Zealand, the cost of car repairs is increasing daily. Fortunately, not all repairs require professional assistance.
Many daily maintenance tasks and common repairs can be done at home with some knowledge and a few tools. It will save your time and money, and extend your vehicle’s life. Here is the car placement guide to get you started.
Time Required: 5-10 minutes
Tools needed: None(most cases)
Wiper blades wear out fast, especially in New Zealand’s weather. If your wipers are not working correctly, then it’s time to replace them. Most blades cut on and off, and you can choose the correct size from your car’s manual, or you can easily check online by entering the make and model.
Time Required: 10-15 minutes
Tools needed: Adjustable spanner or sprocket wrench
If your show struggles to start, a weak battery might be the issue. Replacing a car battery is super simple: remove the negative terminal first, reconnect it last, and always recycle old batteries responsibly.
Time Required: 5-10 minutes
Tools needed: Screwdriver
A blocked air filter can harm fuel efficiency and the performance of the engine. This affordable car repair in NZ takes minutes and usually involves unclipping the housing.
Time Required: 20-30 minutes
Tools needed: Spark plug socket, ratchet wrench
Replacing spark plugs is simple and easy. You can restore power and improve fuel economy by replacing it. Always check the gap size for your vehicle and replace plugs one at a time to avoid confusion — a good beginner car repair guide will walk you through the steps.
Time Required: 10-15 minutes
Tools needed: Screwdriver
Changing headlights is a simple task that anyone can do. Check your car’s manual to find the correct bulb type, and follow the steps to change them safely.
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Tools needed: Jack, socket wrench, wheel brace
Brake pad replacement is not feasible for everyone; it’s for skilled DIYers. Always work on a level surface, secure the vehicle, and double-check your work — brakes are vital for safe driving.
While these fixes are straightforward, always prioritise safety. Use the right tools, follow your car’s manual. If you’re not sure at any stage, a professional mechanic will be the best and safest option. Complex repairs like engine and transmission issues are best left for mechanics.
In some cases, repairing your car is not worth the time and money- especially when it needs major repairs or has failed WOF. In these cases, you can:
Choosing these options is the smart choice when repairs are more expensive than the vehicle’s value. You can even sell a broken car in NZ or a non-roadworthy, deregistered vehicle quickly.
DIY car repairs can save both money and time, and learning more about your vehicle maintenance is beneficial. However, safety must come first. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
When a vehicle’s repair cost is more than the vehicle’s value, selling it to a professional car removal service is the best option.
By combining these basic DIY repairs with innovative selling options, you can increase your vehicle’s value.
