Practical advice on how and what to do - repairs, hobbies, finances

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How to Check an Alternator: 8 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Check an Alternator: 8 Steps (with Pictures)

Not sure if your alternator is up to date? It's hard to tell if it's working well when you don't know how the piece works. The easiest way to find out is using a voltmeter. However, if you have some experience with automobiles, there are other options as well.

3 Ways to Drain a Car's Fuel Tank

3 Ways to Drain a Car's Fuel Tank

Whether you're getting more fuel than you should, or you're selling your car, or you're going to get it fixed, draining your fuel tank is never easy. First, because every car is different; secondly, because fuel tanks are designed to prevent any liquid from coming out of them, as this could cause a fire or vehicle malfunction.

How to Check Car Differential Oil: 13 Steps

How to Check Car Differential Oil: 13 Steps

The gears within the car's differential system cause the drive wheels to turn at the correct speed when stepping on the accelerator pedal and at different rates when making a turn. They are coated with an oil “film” that protects the hardened layer of steel on the teeth from wear due to friction.

3 Ways to Remove Insects, Tar and Sap from Your Car

3 Ways to Remove Insects, Tar and Sap from Your Car

Any car is susceptible to the accumulation of dead insects, sap and tar - which not only foul the bodywork, but also reduce the driver's visibility. Fortunately, it's not that difficult or expensive to solve the problem. Read the tips in this article and learn how to remove the dirt and leave your vehicle brand new!

How to Inflate a Car Tire: 5 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Inflate a Car Tire: 5 Steps (with Pictures)

Inflating your car's tires is a quick and easy process to do yourself, and it protects you from the main causes of a car breakout. Ensuring that your tires are properly inflated improves engine efficiency. Learn how below. Steps Step 1.

How to Find a Parasitic Drainage in the Battery

How to Find a Parasitic Drainage in the Battery

Parasitic battery drain (leakage) can happen when an automobile draws power from the battery, but all lights and electrical components remain off. Luckily, you can find the cause of the problem yourself. Start by connecting a digital multimeter to the car's battery negative terminal, then remove the fuses one by one, paying attention to possible changes in the multimeter's reading.

How to Fuel Your Car Alone: 12 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Fuel Your Car Alone: 12 Steps (with Pictures)

Full-service gas stations are increasingly scarce. Self-service can be much faster, and knowing how to properly fill your vehicle's tank can save you a good deal of money, making it a quick and interesting option. You can learn how to operate the gas pump, select the proper amount of fuel, and complete the process quickly and safely.

3 Ways to Remove a Broken Key from the Ignition Lock

3 Ways to Remove a Broken Key from the Ignition Lock

Breaking a key trying to use it is more common than it seems and, unfortunately, one of the situations where this happens the most is trying to start the car. Do not freak out! With a few gadgets and tricks, it's possible to get the key fragment out of the ignition without having to call a locksmith.

How to Test an Ignition Coil: 14 Steps

How to Test an Ignition Coil: 14 Steps

The ignition coil is a vital component of any vehicle's ignition system as it is responsible for providing electricity to the spark plugs. When a vehicle does not start, fails to start, or dies frequently, the ignition coil may need to be replaced.

How to Make a Pacifier in the Car: 15 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Make a Pacifier in the Car: 15 Steps (with Pictures)

Trying to start your car when you leave for work and not being able to make it is a very stressful situation, even worse if you are on the street, preparing to go home. Fortunately, saving yourself from a dead battery is very easy. Just put two batteries in parallel, that is, make a pacifier.

How to Know if a Car's Water Pump Needs to be Replaced

How to Know if a Car's Water Pump Needs to be Replaced

The water pump is one of the most important parts of the car. Its function is to constantly pump coolant into the engine to prevent overheating. A leak or defective bearing can cause serious engine damage. As a vehicle owner, you must be aware of defects that require repair or replacement parts.

How to Identify Run Flat Tires: 7 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Identify Run Flat Tires: 7 Steps (with Pictures)

Run flat tires can be driven a certain distance and at a reduced speed after being punctured, allowing you some time to drive to a mechanic. The distance and speed that run flat tires can withstand after puncture depends on the tire brand and the car's weight plus its load.

How to Install a Subwoofer: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Install a Subwoofer: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

This article will help you install a Subwoofer in your car sound system. Steps Step 1. The most economical way to accomplish the task is to purchase an installation kit from an auction site or similar online The kit usually comes with a long power cord, grounding cord and remote wiring.

How to Remove Brake Drums: 15 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Remove Brake Drums: 15 Steps (with Pictures)

Brake drums (as opposed to disc brakes) are a braking system that reduces the speed of a vehicle by pressing brake shoes into the inner surface of a metal drum attached to the wheel to create friction. Similar to any braking system, drum brakes wear out with use.

How to Change Car Windshield Cleaners

How to Change Car Windshield Cleaners

Windshield wipers are made of rubber, which means they wear out naturally after a few months of use. You can take the car to a mechanic to change them, but be aware that you can easily do this yourself. Fortunately, the installation process is identical for most cars.

How to Know When to Change Car Tires: 10 Steps

How to Know When to Change Car Tires: 10 Steps

Ever wonder when to replace your worn tires? Their performance is critical to the vehicle's safety, performance and efficiency. In the US, for example, the National Department of Transit estimates that around 200 fatalities a year can be caused by tire failure.

How to Change a Car Ceiling Lining: 12 Steps

How to Change a Car Ceiling Lining: 12 Steps

The roof lining of a car consists of a cloth and foam base and is attached to the roof with an adhesive. It's common for it to come loose or sink if it's exposed to excessive moisture or if the car is getting old. It is not necessary to call a mechanic to fix it if it is dirty or coming loose:

How to Start a Car: 13 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Start a Car: 13 Steps (with Pictures)

Starting a car for the first time can be a challenge, especially if you are learning to drive. Luckily, the process itself is simple, whether in a car with an automatic or manual transmission. This article discusses both possibilities. Check out the first step below to get started.

How to Use Direction Arrows: 10 Steps

How to Use Direction Arrows: 10 Steps

Part of safe driving is letting other drivers know what move you are about to make, and the arrow keys are key to that. Using the arrow keys is not difficult and it is mandatory when turning to another street or changing lanes; this signage is the way for drivers to communicate, keeping everyone safe and preventing accidents.

How to Change a Bicycle Tire (with Pictures)

How to Change a Bicycle Tire (with Pictures)

If you ride a bike, sooner or later, you'll find that you need to change a tire. Before starting the process, place your bike upside down, distributing its weight between the seat and handlebars. Steps Step 1. Unscrew the nut that secures the axle to the frame If they are extra light, apply a little lubricant to the nut – a silicone oil or even vegetable oil will do the trick.