Tech Source
Automotive Maintenance
Odds are that at some point, you or someone you know has had to change a flat tire, needed an oil change, or needed to check their fluids. If you're like most college students, you probably asked a family member to take care of these problems for you. However, if there is an emergency, would you feel comfortable fixing your car on your own?
If your answer to the above question is "no", then you have come to the right place! In this article, I will describe the basics of automotive maintenance, include videos and images of certain repairs, and include best practices to ensure your car lasts as long as you need it.
Texas Tech offers some amazing free resources. One of them is the Free Car Clinic; this clinic is offered three times a year. Each clinic is offered before students return home for breaks or holidays. Clink on the link to see the schedule. (Updated every semester)
Students also have the option to use the Motorist Assistance Program. Your first three assists are FREE!
Free Student Resources
Basics of Auto Repair
Before starting any sort of maintenance on your car, ensure you have the right safety equipment, tools, and weather to finish the job. If the weather is bad, the repair becomes a lot harder. Automotive repairs can take anywhere from an hour to a full day so it's important to have enough time to finish the repair before you start. You should always wear a long-sleeve shirt and pants before starting any repairs. A list of necessary materials will be available at the beginning of each section.
Another important idea to keep in mind is safety. Make sure you are doing your repairs on a level surface and are confident in your ability to make the repairs. Some repairs are so delicate or load-bearing that attempting to do them at home is never a good idea. If there is an issue with the internal components of your engine or you do not feel confident in your ability to repair the vehicle, it is best to take it to a qualified mechanic. This will keep you safe and prevent you from causing further damage to your car with a shoddy repair.
Helpful Dash Lights Graphic
The following graphic is a good reference for the warning lights on your dashboard. All of the lights pictured here may not be on your dashboard. However, this graphic will help you know what the light is indicating and allow you to see what repairs are needed. Please consult a licensed mechanic before attempting any repairs on your own.
Sources for this page and more information can be found at cars.com