Today’s Ford vehicles have sophisticated systems controlled by computer chips or requiring expert care. However, maintenance tasks for your car don’t have to be a job for professionals every time. While many are best left to certified technicians, there are several slightly less-involved DIY tasks you can tackle on your own if you like to work on cars; these projects can save you money and give you a better understanding of your vehicle.
Consult your owner’s manual or visit the professionals at Mike White Ford in North Idaho to find out if a task you are contemplating may void your warranty if done incorrectly. In the meantime, here are five basic and manageable DIY maintenance tasks for your Ford vehicle that you can choose to tackle on your own:
1. Replacing Your Engine Air Filter
Why It’s Important: Engine air filters prevent dirt and dust from entering the engine, helping it maintain optimal performance and fuel efficiency. A clogged air filter reduces airflow and causes the engine to consume more fuel and work harder to function.
How Often: Inspect every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as specified in your owner’s manual, and replace as needed.
How to Do It:
- Under the hood, locate the air filter housing, typically near the engine. It’s secured by screws, clips, or snaps.
- Remove the housing cover, take out the old filter, and inspect it. If it’s visibly dirty, it’s time for a new one.
- Insert the new filter (ensure it matches the manufacturer’s specifications), reseal the housing, and secure it.
This task requires no special tools and takes about 15 minutes, making it a perfect starting point for DIY maintenance.
2. Changing Out Seasonal Tires
Why It’s Important: Switching between summer and winter tires improves traction and handling in extreme weather conditions, increasing safety and performance. Keeping the correct tires on your vehicle also extends their lifespan.
How Often: Swap your tires twice a year, typically in fall and spring.
How to Do It:
- Loosen the lug nuts on one wheel while the car is still on the ground.
- Use a car jack to lift the vehicle and remove the loosened lug nuts and the tire.
- Align the seasonal tire onto the wheel bolts, screw the lug nuts on by hand, and then lower the car slightly to stabilize the wheel.
- Tighten the lug nuts more securely with a torque wrench to the manufacturer’s recommended specification.
Repeat for all four wheels, rotating their positions if needed to ensure even wear. While this task requires some physical effort, it’s a great way to familiarize yourself with your car’s wheels and tires. It’s also good practice if you ever have a blowout and need to change a tire while on the road!
3. Flush and Replace Coolant
Why It’s Important: The coolant (or antifreeze) regulates your engine’s temperature and prevents it from overheating or freezing. Coolant degrades over time and becomes less effective, potentially leading to engine damage.
How Often: Change out your coolant every 2 to 5 years, depending on the type of coolant and your vehicle’s usage.
How to Do It:
- Ensure the engine is completely cool before starting this task. Locate the radiator and coolant reservoir under the hood.
- Place a large drain pan under the radiator, then open the drain plug and let the old coolant flow out. Close the drain plug afterward.
- Mix a 50/50 solution of coolant and distilled water (or use pre-mixed coolant) and refill the reservoir and radiator.
- Start the engine with the heater on high for a few minutes to circulate the new coolant, then top off the reservoir if needed.
Proper disposal of old coolant is essential, as it is toxic. Be sure to follow local guidelines.
4. Replace Cabin Air Filter
Why It’s Important: The cabin air filter removes dust, pollen, and pollutants from the air inside your car, improving air quality and keeping your HVAC system running efficiently.
How Often: Replace the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or sooner if you drive in areas with heavy pollen or dust.
How to Do It:
- Locate the cabin air filter, usually behind the glove compartment or under the dashboard. Please consult your owner’s manual for its exact location.
- Remove the glove box or panel to access the filter housing.
- Slide out the old filter, note its orientation, and replace it the correct way with a new one.
- Reattach the glove box or panel, and you’re done!
This task typically takes about 20 minutes and requires only basic tools.
5. Check and Refill Fluids and Inspect Wiper Blades
Why It’s Important: Regularly checking and refilling key fluids ensures your vehicle operates smoothly and prevents costly repairs. Fluids such as engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid are essential for your vehicle’s performance and safety. Maintaining clear visibility with properly functioning wiper blades is critical for safe driving.
How Often: Inspect fluids and wiper blades monthly, and top off or replace as needed.
How to Do It:
- Engine Oil: Use the dipstick to check the level and color of the oil, topping off with the manufacturer-recommended oil if needed.
- Transmission Fluid: With the engine running, check the transmission fluid dipstick (if applicable) for correct levels and clarity.
- Brake Fluid: Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for appropriate levels and fluid clarity.
- Power Steering Fluid: Make sure the steering fluid reservoir is topped off if it’s below the recommended level.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: Open the reservoir and fill to the top.
- Wiper Blades: Inspect for cracks or wear, and replace if they leave streaks or squeak against the windshield.
This combined inspection and maintenance routine takes about 30 minutes and keeps your vehicle safe and efficient. Be sure to use the fluids specified in the owner’s manual. In addition, when you do this task yourself, you will notice when any fluids need topping off more often than usual. This may indicate a leak in the system and could help you catch a problem early.
Trust Mike White Ford for Professional Maintenance
While these DIY tasks are a great way to care for your Ford vehicle, more complex services are best left to the professionals. At any of the Mike White Ford Service Departments in Coeur d’Alene or Sandpoint, we provide expert maintenance using genuine Ford parts, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly. So if you are not the DIY type, don’t worry! Our technicians can handle many routine maintenance tasks if you bring your vehicle in for Ford’s The Works® signature oil change service or for any other service.
Make an appointment with our service department today to let our certified technicians handle the tough jobs, or consult our team about DIY maintenance tips. Keeping your car in top shape has never been easier with Mike White Ford on your side.