Driving a car is a big responsibility. While most auto repair is best left to the experts, there are a few things that every driver should know how to do before they get behind the wheel. Changing a tire, checking your oil, and jumping a dead battery are all things that the repair experts at Stringer Auto Repair, LLC in Johnstown, OH, recommend you learn how to do, if you haven’t already.
Changing a Tire
Flat tires and blowouts happen all the time. The last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road waiting for a good samaritan to pull over and help you. Changing a flat tire is a basic auto repair skill that anyone can do, with the right tools and know-how.
The first thing you need to know is that you have a healthy spare tire and the location of your jack and lug wrench. As for the rest, we advise that you have an experienced friend or family teach you to change a tire in a safe location where you can practice so you can be ready for the real-life situation.
Checking Your Oil
It is not at all uncommon for us to see customers come in for maintenance or an oil change and we find that their engine oil level is far below where it should be. Between oil changes, you should be checking your oil on a regular basis. It is a simple process and can save you a lot of money in engine repair.
Before you check your oil, make sure that you know the type of oil your car uses so you can have some on hand if it is low. The fluid level is not the only thing you need to look for. As oil changes and breaks down it gets dirty and dark. If the oil on your dipstick is looking closer to black than amber, it is time to schedule an oil change.
Checking Tire Pressure
A tire pressure gauge is a cheap, small tool that easily fits in your glove box. This gauge will let you know if your tire pressure is too high or too low. Neither of these is a good thing. Do a little research to find the optimum pressure level for your tires and vehicle.
If you are looking low, use an air compressor at your home or take advantage of the air compressors available in the parking lot of many gas stations. If your tire continuously looks low after you refill it, you may have a leak. Bring it into Stringer Auto Repair, LLC so we can safely repair it.
Jumpstart Your Battery
Don’t let a dead battery leave you stranded and trying to flag down strangers to help. Learn how to safely and correctly jump your car with a jumpstarter or jumper cables.
For auto maintenance and repair issues that are out of your wheelhouse, call Stringer Auto Repair, LLC today. Our team of expert mechanics is here for all your auto service and repair needs.
