5 DIY Car Maintenance Mistakes Wisconsin Make That Can Cost You

As someone who’s genuinely interested in learning more about cars and has made a real effort to understand how they work, it’s actually really reassuring to know that I’m not alone in nearly making mistakes like these. It’s easy to feel discouraged when you’re still learning and things go wrong, but hearing that others—maybe even people with more experience—have been in similar situations makes the whole process feel a little less intimidating and a lot more human.

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

Using the Wrong Fluids - Here is an obvious. 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. 

Ignoring the Right Materials and Gear - Another one 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?

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