5 DIY Car Maintenance Mistakes Iowans Make That Can Cost You

I am not a car guy. I wish I was, but after we get past jumping a car or putting wiper fluid in, I am useless. As someone who would love to learn more about cars and has tried, it's nice to know I'm not the only one who has almost made mistakes like these before.

If you know what you're doing when it comes to working on cars, you can probably skip this one. You can see even more mistakes made here with Cheapism.

While going to the mechanic can be one of the most classic ways to blow money that there is, that doesn’t mean it’s always unnecessary. Mechanics have a lot of things you don’t have: training, for one. If you’re going DIY for car maintenance, you want to make sure you know what you’re doing.

Car Maintenance Mistakes

Ignoring the Right Materials and Gear - Right off the bat, this is something I have an issue with. It's an important one. Use the right tools. Wear the right safety gear. Install the right parts. 

Buying Cheap Parts - I am two for two. Usually we’re about being frugal, but sometimes, third party parts and accessories just don’t work as well as the name-brand stuff. The reason the dealership wants to use those more expensive parts? Probably because they’re better, and that’s something your car and your safety deserve. 

Working Unsafely - Stay safe out there! You jacked up your car in the correct spot, right? It’s not going to fall down on top of you or anything? And you’re wearing gloves and goggles, yeah?

Using the Wrong Fluids - Before you permanently damage your car, make sure you know what you’re pouring into it. Get the correct coolant, buy the proper oil, and only dump water into the one tube you’re supposed to. 

Passing Over the Owner’s Manual - It is there for a reason.

Stay safe and good luck out there everyone! You can see more here.