Whether you\u2019re a seasoned mechanic or just getting into automotive DIY, replacing common car fluids is something most anyone can handle. Manufacturers make it pretty easy to top off most fluids, and for many systems, you can replace the fluid entirely without a mechanic\u2019s tool set or training. Granted, some systems are easier than others, but it\u2019s always more satisfying to do it yourself. These three car fluids are especially DIY friendly:<\/span><\/p>\n 1.<\/strong> Windshield<\/strong> Fluid<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Windshield and deicer fluid usually runs out more quickly than other fluid. Luckly, it\u2019s also the easiest to replace. You\u2019ll know you\u2019re out when you get a notification on your dashboard or when you try to spray your windshield and nothing comes out.<\/span><\/p>\n To add more windshield fluid, find the plastic reservoir under the hood of your car \u2014 it should be clearly marked, most likely with a picture of wipers. Just pop off the cap and pour in the fluid. There should be a fill line on the reservoir itself or min\/max lines to guide you.<\/span><\/p>\n If you live in regions with freezing temperatures, make sure you use a fluid with deicer in it. Adding water alone will leave you with an unhelpful ice cube. Swing by your local NAPA AUTO PARTS to pick up some of the pre-mixed solution, and keep a gallon handy. You\u2019ll use it!<\/span><\/p>\n 2.<\/strong> Oil<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Oil shouldn\u2019t need topping off unless you have a leak or didn\u2019t add enough to begin with. It does need to be changed regularly, however. This project might sound daunting, but after you\u2019ve done it once, you\u2019ll wonder why you ever paid anyone else to do it for you.<\/span><\/p>\n Changing your oil<\/a><\/strong> is as simple as removing the drain bolt, collecting the old oil, replacing the drain bolt and adding the new stuff. You may want to change the<\/span> oil filter<\/a><\/strong> while you\u2019re at it. The trick with DIY oil changes is the disposal afterward. Collect the old oil in a large container, add the new oil into the engine, and then fill the now-empty bottles with the used oil and cap them tightly. You can then drop the bottles off at a local automotive shop or recycling center.<\/span><\/p>\n Oil should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (every three months or so). The specific mileage is specified in your owners manual. Your manual will also tell you how much is needed. This is not a negotiable amount and it varies by vehicle, so make sure to have the proper amount for one oil change on hand.<\/span><\/p>\n 3.<\/strong> Coolant<\/strong>\/Antifreeze<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Driving around without coolant is not something you want to be doing, so keeping a bottle around for topping off is never a bad idea.<\/span> Radiator flushes<\/a><\/strong> are needed less frequently than oil changes and they are a bit of a hassle, but the project is still doable.<\/span><\/p>\n The funnel is your friend, here. Coolant is notoriously splatter-prone and it\u2019s considered illegal dumping to spill the liquid into drain water systems. Also, note that the system is under pressure when it\u2019s hot, so never remove the cap until the engine has cooled. Like windshield fluid, the plastic reservoir should have fill levels clearly marked, but check your manual for how much the system holds, and keep a bottle in your arsenal.<\/span><\/p>\n Checking and topping off fluid levels is a simple first step to maintaining your car. Changing the fluids takes a bit more know how, but it is a task worth learning. You\u2019ll feel pretty good knowing you can do it yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n For more information on car fluids, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local<\/span> NAPA AUTO PARTS store<\/a><\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo Credit: Blair Lampe<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n