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Building A Foundation: Four First Time DIY Car Projects

Ford F150 engine air filter swap is a great First Time DIY Car project

Tackling your first DIY automotive project may seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is picking the right starting place to ensure success. There are certain DIY car projects that can be accomplished with relatively simple tools, a few parts, and some spare time. We’ve put together four first time DIY car projects that will not improve your vehicle, but also build your DIY confidence.

Change your cabin air filter

The first step to this task is learning that there is an air filter just for your passenger compartment. The often forgotten cabin air filter is usually an easy part to remove and replace. In most vehicles the filter is located behind the glove box door. Consult your owner’s manual for how to access your specific vehicle’s filter. Most have a simple cover that snaps into place, while the filter slides out by hand. Read this article to learn more.

Change your engine air filter

This filter is usually easy to locate near the front or side of the engine compartment, but a quick check of your owner’s manual may still be in order. Your engine air filter keeps dirt and other particles from damaging the inside of your engine, but over time it can become clogged and affect performance. The idea is to change the filter before it clogs. You should only need simple hand tools, or if you are lucky no tools at all. Read this article to learn more and check out this video:

Change your oil2020 Jeep Gladiator engine oil pan

This job will need a few more tools, but the investment is worth it. How often you change your oil depends on your driving habits, but your owner’s manual is the best place to start for basic guidelines. Your vehicle may also have an oil life percentage readout that can accurately tell you when it is time. Read this article for the essentials needed to change your oil

Clean your battery terminals

Over time battery terminals can develop a crusty layer of corrosion that impedes the flow of electricity. This makes it harder for the battery to deliver its full power capabilities. The simple solution is cleaning the terminals. Click here and read how to clean battery terminals quickly and easily.

Your first time DIY car project can be a success if you plan ahead. Set aside an hour for each task and take you time.

Check out all the maintenance parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on first time DIY car projects, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Brian Medford View All

With an automotive writing career spanning over two decades, Brian has a passion for sharing the automotive lifestyle. An avid DIYer he can usually be found working on one of his many project cars. His current collection includes a 1969 Olds Delta 88 convertible and a slant-6 powered 1975 Plymouth Duster.

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