Vehicle Maintenance

Changing your spark plugs is one of those automotive maintenance tasks that many people leave until there's a problem. But it's not difficult to do, and it doesn't take much time.

By Jonathan Strickland

Does your car smell like gas? If so, a leaking fuel line may be to blame. But before you rush to call your local mechanic, you might want to consider tackling this somewhat simple repair at home.

By Patrick E. George

Rust isn't your car's friend. It's unappealing to see and what's worse, it can cause serious structural damage. What exactly causes rust and what can you do to keep it from eating away your car's metallic parts?

By Jonathan Strickland

If you have a car with a battery that needs replacement, follow the steps outlined in our article. We'll show you how to change your car battery easily.

By Josh Clark & Talon Homer

If you pay careful attention, your car can give you vital information about how it's currently running and if service might be required in the near future. You just have to watch for the signals it sends.

By Christopher Neiger

Oil changes top the to-do list of most amateur auto mechanics. But are you brave enough to try switching out the transmission fluid? It's just as important as that engine oil.

By William Harris

Your vehicle's timing belt is a strip of rubber that keeps everything in your car running right on time. But belts wear out and need replacing. You can do it yourself, with a little help.

By Elizabeth Sprouse

Your cabin air filter helps keep pollutants and allergens out of your car's cabin, and consequently, out of your respiratory system. How do you change this often-neglected filter?

By Jessika Toothman

The 3,000-mile oil change is part of the American consciousness. But where did the figure come from, and is it even right?

By Julia Layton

You probably don't think much about your car's battery -- as long as it's working well. But even the best battery eventually transforms from a chemical powerhouse to a chemical paperweight.

By Eric Baxter & Cherise Threewitt

Thumbing through old copies of People while you wait for your car to be serviced probably doesn't sound like the best way to spend your day. Suck it up, though. Your car will thank you.

By Robert Lamb