Maintenance guides
Simple, step-by-step how-tos. Pair them with your vehicle's page for the exact parts.
How to change your car's oilAn oil change is the easiest money-saving job you can do yourself. You need the right oil, the right filter and about half an hour.30–45 minutes · EasyHow to check your oil levelChecking your oil once a month, and before road trips, is the cheapest insurance you can buy for your engine.2 minutes · EasyHow to replace your engine air filterA clean air filter keeps dirt out of your engine. On most cars it takes no tools and a few minutes.5–10 minutes · EasyHow to replace your cabin air filterThe cabin filter cleans the air you breathe inside the car. A dirty one causes musty smells and weak airflow.5–10 minutes · EasyHow to replace wiper bladesStreaks, chattering or skipping mean it's time for new blades. Most cars use different lengths for the driver and passenger sides.5 minutes · EasyTire pressure and rotation: the basicsCorrect pressure and regular rotation are the two biggest things you can do for tire life, fuel economy and safety.10 minutes a month · EasyHow to replace your car batteryMost batteries last 3–5 years. Slow cranking, dim lights or a battery warning light mean it's time to test yours (parts stores do it for free).15–30 minutes · ModerateHow to check and top up coolantCoolant keeps your engine from overheating in summer and freezing in winter. Low coolant usually means a leak.5 minutes · EasyWhen to replace brake padsBrake pads wear gradually. Replacing them on time is cheap; waiting until they grind can ruin the rotors.2-minute check · Check: easy · Replace: moderateHow to change your motorcycle's oilMost motorcycles share their oil with the clutch and transmission, so the right oil matters even more than in a car.30 minutes · EasyMotorcycle chain cleaning, lube and adjustmentA clean, lubed and correctly adjusted chain lasts much longer and makes shifting smoother.20 minutes · EasyElectric car maintenance basicsElectric cars skip oil changes, spark plugs and timing belts, but they still need a few things done on schedule.Varies · Easy