Bunnings' Auto Hacks for Your Ride!
Keeping your vehicle in top shape doesn't always require a trip to the mechanic. With a few clever DIY fixes and car maintenance tips, you can maintain your ride efficiently and affordably. Bunnings, known for its wide range of home improvement products, also offers solutions for your automotive needs. In this article, we'll share some of the best automotive hacks that you can apply using tools and supplies from Bunnings, ensuring your drive remains smooth and savvy.
DIY Oil Change
Changing your vehicle's oil is a fundamental aspect of car maintenance. By doing it yourself, you can save money and get to know your vehicle a little better.
Tools and Supplies:
- Synthetic or conventional motor oil (check your vehicle’s manual for the correct type and amount)
- Oil filter (specific to your vehicle model)
- Oil catch pan
- Funnel
- Wrench set
- Car jack and jack stands or ramps
Steps:
- Warm up your engine for a few minutes to help the oil flow easier.
- Lift the car using a jack and secure it with jack stands or ramps.
- Place the oil catch pan underneath the oil drain plug.
- Remove the drain plug with the correct wrench and let the oil drain completely.
- Replace the oil filter. Make sure to lubricate the new filter's gasket with fresh oil.
- Reinstall the drain plug.
- Using the funnel, pour the new oil into the filling port.
- Check the oil level with the dipstick, and add more if necessary.
Headlight Restoration
Over time, headlights can become foggy and yellow, reducing visibility. Instead of spending on new lights, try restoring them.
Tools and Supplies:
- Headlight restoration kit (available at Bunnings)
- Masking tape
- Clean cloth
- Water
Steps:
- Clean the headlights with soap and water, then dry them thoroughly.
- Tape around the headlights to protect the paint.
- Follow the instructions that come with the headlight restoration kit; typically, this involves sanding the headlight with increasingly fine sandpaper and then polishing and sealing it.
- After restoring the headlights, use a clean cloth to wipe away any residue.
Interior Refresh
Rejuvenate the inside of your car with some easy cleaning and organizational hacks.
Tools and Supplies:
- Car-specific interior cleaner
- Microfiber cloths
- Upholstery cleaner
- Vacuum cleaner
- Organizational accessories like back-of-seat hangers or trunk organizers
Steps:
- Wipe down hard surfaces with the interior cleaner and a microfiber cloth.
- Use the upholstery cleaner for fabric seats or a leather conditioner for leather seats, following product instructions.
- Vacuum the floors and remove any mats to clean separately.
- Install organizational accessories to keep your car clutter-free.
Tyre Maintenance
Proper tire maintenance is crucial for safety and performance.
Tools and Supplies:
- Tyre pressure gauge
- Air compressor or foot pump
- Tread depth gauge
- Tyre sealant
Steps:
- Use the tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of all tires, including the spare, and compare it against the recommended level (usually found on the driver's door frame).
- Inflate your tires as needed using an air compressor or foot pump.
- Check the tread depth to ensure your tires are still safe to use. Replace tires if the tread is below the legal limit.
- Apply tire sealant to small punctures as a temporary fix until you can have the tire professionally repaired or replaced.
Battery Care
Keep your car battery in check to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Tools and Supplies:
- Multimeter or voltmeter
- Distilled water (for maintenance-type batteries)
- Battery terminal brush
- Anti-corrosion spray
Steps:
- Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage while the car is off. A healthy battery should show around 12.6 volts.
- Clean the battery terminals with a brush to remove corrosion.
- Apply anti-corrosion spray to the terminals to prevent future buildup.
- If you have a maintenance-type battery, ensure the cells are filled with distilled water to the correct level.
Conclusion
By leveraging these Bunnings' auto hacks, you can take charge of your car's maintenance and keep your ride running smoothly without breaking the bank. Remember always to follow safety guidelines and consult your vehicle's manual or a professional when necessary. Happy motoring!