Keeping your car running properly means performing routine maintenance at the manufacturer's recommended intervals. If you're on a tight budget, or looking at ways to cut down on car maintenance costs, there are some things you can do yourself. Replacing and replenishing certain car accessories and fluids saves time and money as opposed to visiting a mechanic.

Oil Top Up

An oil change is something that is recommended every 3,000 for older model cars. Newer models can go up to 15,000 miles before an oil change is required. Check your vehicle's maintenance manual for the exact specifications. In the mean time, you can check your oil and top up if it's low. Here's how:

1. Make sure your car is turned off.
2. Locate the oil cap under the hood.
3. Unscrew the cap and remove the dipstick.
4. Read it to see if the oil level is low or high.
5. Using a clean rag, wipe the stick completely.
6. Dip the stick back in and remove for a precise final reading.
7. If low, top up the oil slowly with a funnel—make sure you don't overfill. Your car shouldn't require more than one quart of oil.
8. Replace the dipstick and screw the cap on tightly.

Most vehicles will take a standard viscosity oil of 10W-30. Ask your local auto parts store clerk about special oil synthetics for high performance vehicles or what the best oil is for your vehicle. Topping up your oil can save you money if you're unable to get an oil change right away or are in between routine oil changes.

Interior Lights

If your vehicle's dome lights have gone out, it can become a safety issue when getting into your car at night. Many times a maintenance repair specialist will replace these when you have a multi-point vehicle inspection, but that can cost extra. Replace blown out bulbs by:

1. Removing the light cover with a flathead screwdriver.
2. Visiting your auto parts store to obtain the bulb that matches your vehicle's exact year and model.
3. Replacing the old bulb with a new one and then reattaching the cover.

Be sure to test the light's function by clicking it on or opening the door to ensure you've fixed the underlying issue.

Windshield Wiper Change

Wipers that are broken or non-functional can be a driving hazard. Replace them yourself by visiting discount auto parts stores to obtain the exact size for your vehicle model. From there:

1. Pull the entire wiper assembly up and outward into a vertical position.
2. Turn the blade perpendicular so the hinge is visible and pull out the tab—this allows you to freely remove the old blade.
3. Add the new wiper by inserting the arm through the connecting holes to push the new wiper up.
4. There should be a visible hinge—make sure it's perpendicular toward the wiper.
5. Line it up precisely so that the arm of the wiper goes over the hinge and then push together until you hear a click.
6. Push the wiper arm back down into place to rest on the windshield.

Learning how to replace your wipers will prevent you from waiting on a tow truck or being stranded with a broken wiper in a rain or snow storm.  

While you may not be ready to change out brake pads or install a new fuel pump on your car, there are some money saving tasks that you can do rather than call in a pro every time. Learning to be self sufficient when it comes to car care is a great skill to acquire and you can pass your knowledge on to others.