Maintenance

Get advice on how to help keep your car looking like it just rolled off the lot. Learn how to give your car an oil change, fix car paint, install new accessories and replace your car battery and windshield—without the aid of a mechanic.

How to Fix Loose Auto Body Side Molding

Whether it's rubber or vinyl, side molding on late model cars is notorious for peeling off. Here are step-by-step DIY...


How to Fix a Leaking Sunroof

You can solve most leaking sunroof problems by clearing a clogged drain tube with your shop vacuum. Here are the...


How to do a Brake Check

Even if you have no experience repairing cars, you can do a brake check-inspecting brake pads and the condition of...


How to Fix Your Windshield Washers

A windshield washer that doesn't pump enough fluid is annoying, and can be hazardous. Here's a quick diagnostic checklist that...


Easy Car Maintenance: Loosen a Rusted Wheel

Follow our do-it-yourself car maintenance tips to remove a rusted-on wheel using rust...


The Essential Car Maintenance Checklist

Road trips are more fun when the car doesn't break down! Run through...


How to Replace Spark Plug Wires

Worn spark plug wires and boots can start to leak voltage to nearby engine parts, causing...


How to Install New Car Carpet

Replace the old, dirty carpet in your car with new, pre-formed carpeting in an afternoon.

How to Apply Paint Protection Film to Your Vehicle

Formerly a pros-only product, paint protection film is now available in easy-to-apply spray-on kits. An expert...


How to Load a Grease Gun Cartridge

Loading a new grease cartridge seems...


How to Replace a Broken Wheel Stud

Tightening lug nuts without a torque wrench can be a recipe for disaster. Here are step-by-step...


How to Check Your Car’s Serpentine Belt for Wear

Although EPDM serpentine belts are superior to older models, it's not as easy to tell when they're worn out. Here's...


Do-It-Yourself Headlight Replacement: Step-by-Step Instructions

Got a burned-out headlight? Here are our quick and easy step-by-step instructions for headlight replacement, along with tips...


How to Replace Corroded Battery Terminals

Got badly corroded battery cables? Here's how to replace your car's battery cable terminals with new...


Cool Auto Shop Tools You Need

A do-it-yourself mechanic's wish list: all the tools you could ever need (and want) in your shop for

When to Replace a Coolant Temperature Sensor

If your car has starting problems and the "check engine" light doesn't come on, you may have a bad engine...


How to Change Your Car’s Serpentine Belt

Automatic belt tensioners, standard in most cars now, make changing a serpentine belt a simple DIY repair. Follow the clear...

How to Save on Brake Repair Costs

Learn how to avoid brake job rip-offs, extra costs and save up to $1,000 over the life of your car...


6 Ways to Get Your Car Winter-Ready

Snow, sleet and ice are far from ideal driving conditions, which is why it's essential to make sure your vehicle...


How to Fix Your Car Windshield Washer

Windshield washers are fairly reliable. But when they fail, it's usually the result of a clogged nozzle or a dead...


How to Check for a Bad PCV Valve

Perform the world's easiest diagnostic test: Shake your PCV valve to make sure it's working. It only takes five minutes...


How to Invest in Car Maintenance: The Bare Minimum

Want to make the most of the money you spend on car maintenance? These five essential maintenance practices deliver the...


How to Use a Car Jack Safely

It's vital to learn how to use a car jack before you attempt your own oil changes or repairs to...

How to Protect Your Car’s Paint

Protect the paint finish on your car's hood and mirrors from flying road debris with a special rubbery film. With...


4 Quick Car Maintenance Checks for Winter Driving

Expert advice on how to prepare your car for winter driving conditions.


How to Buy a Car Jack and Jack Stands

Make an investment in your own safety (and the safety of your car) and buy a semi-pro car jack and...


How to Replace Spark Plugs

Changing the spark plugs in your car is easier than you think. Just make sure you have the right tools.


How to Safely Remove a Car Radio or Car Stereo

Learn how to remove your car radio or car stereo system-without wrecking any of the other wiring in your car. 


What To Do When Your Car Heater Blows Cold Air

Does your car heater just blow cold air when you turn on the fan? It might be as simple as...