When it comes to car repairs, knowing what you can handle yourself can save you time, money, and frustration. However, it isn’t always best to perform DIY car repairs. In some cases, while it may save you money, it is still best to rely on the professionals for support. Choosing to forego the support of professionals may cost you more in the long run. But what repairs can you make to your care, and what should you leave to the professionals? 

In this blog, we’ll discuss a few DIY car repairs you can make yourself and which ones are better left in the hands of the professionals. If you’re considering performing DIY car repairs, keep reading to see what our experts recommend. 

DIY Car Repair: Replacing Old Windshield Wipers

Replacing your windshield wipers is one of the simplest DIY car repairs and only requires a few minutes. You can purchase new wiper blades at a local auto parts store and follow the installation instructions on the packaging to ensure they are installed correctly. This easy fix can improve your visibility in bad weather and keep your car safe to drive. However, it is important that you purchase the appropriate wiper blades, as improperly sized blades may not reach across your windshield adequately, leaving you with minimal visibility when you need it most. 

Professional Car Repair: Brake System Repairs

While checking your brake pads and fluid levels is manageable, repairing or replacing elements like rotors, calipers, or the entire braking system is complex. The braking system is essential for your safety, and any repair errors could lead to dangerous driving conditions. Additionally, you will need a variety of tools to replace your brakes that you might not already have, making this a costly investment to make in your vehicle. Instead of attempting this on your own, this is one job best performed by professional mechanics with the right training and equipment.

DIY Car Repair: Changing Your Air Filter

Changing your car’s air filter is another simple DIY car repair you can perform. It often takes just a few minutes and can improve your car’s fuel efficiency and engine performance. Locate your air filter housing, remove the old filter, and replace it with a new one. Your vehicle’s manual will usually include step-by-step instructions to ensure you install this filter properly. If you aren’t sure which air filter is the right size for your car, the professionals at your local auto parts store should be able to help you find one that fits your vehicle.

Professional Repair: Engine Diagnostics and Repair

The engine is the heart of your vehicle, and diagnosing its problems requires specialized tools and expertise. While you might be tempted to troubleshoot issues using an OBD-II scanner, certified mechanics should interpret the results accurately and perform necessary repairs, such as replacing a timing belt or fixing valve issues. Incorrect repairs can lead to more damage and costlier repairs down the line. The most helpful thing you can do when you believe you’re experiencing an engine problem is to provide your mechanic with as much information as possible about the issue you’re experiencing to help them begin the diagnostic process. 

DIY Car Repair: Battery Replacement

Most car owners can handle replacing their car batteries. With just a few tools and basic safety precautions, you can swap out a dead or dying battery with a new one. Always ensure the car is turned off and disconnected from the electrical system before starting, and refer to your owner’s manual for specifics. If you choose to replace your car battery, it is important that you don’t throw it in the garbage. Instead, you should find a local recycling center to drop off your old battery to ensure your environment is safe from lead and battery acid contamination. 

Professional Car Repair: Transmission Issues

Transmission repairs are among the most complex and costly car repairs. Whether it’s an issue with slipping gears, strange noises, or delayed shifts, diagnosing and fixing transmission problems is best left to professionals who have specialized tools and in-depth knowledge. Attempting to repair it yourself could result in permanent damage or the need for a full replacement, which can be extremely expensive. If you want to avoid the unexpected cost of replacing your vehicle or causing irreparable damage to your car, it is best to schedule an appointment with your trusted automotive professionals. 

DIY Car Repair: Replacing Light Bulbs

Replacing headlights, tail lights, or interior lights is a manageable DIY car repair. Most light replacements involve accessing the bulb housing, removing the old bulb, and inserting the new one. This type of repair requires no special skills and can help you avoid tickets or unsafe driving conditions. While removing any bolts and locks that prevent you from reaching the lightbulb may take a bit of time, it is not too difficult to do in less than an hour. 

Professional Car Repair: Suspension Work

Your car’s suspension system ensures a smooth ride and helps maintain control of the vehicle. Diagnosing and repairing issues with shocks, struts, or suspension arms is complicated and requires specialized knowledge and tools. Errors during repairs could lead to uneven tire wear or impaired handling, making professional intervention crucial. If your vehicle feels a bit bouncy when going over bumps in the road, it is best to reach out to your trusted automotive professional to schedule repairs. 

Protect Your Car at Paskett Auto

Knowing the difference between a simple DIY car repair and a task that requires professional help is essential for maintaining your car’s safety and longevity. While replacing wiper blades, changing air filters, or replacing light bulbs are manageable for most car owners, complex systems like the engine, transmission, and suspension should be trusted by experienced mechanics.

If you need to schedule professional repairs for your vehicle in the Roy, Utah, area, turn to our team at Paskett Auto for support. For almost 30 years, our team has provided the most comprehensive car repairs to vehicles across the Wasatch Front. We’re equipped to handle everything from minor maintenance to major repairs.

When you need to schedule repairs for your vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact us for support. 

When it comes to choosing the right motor oil for your car, the options can be overwhelming. Synthetic oil and conventional oil each have benefits, but how do you decide which is best for your vehicle? While you might not think your oil choice matters that much, it can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, making it essential to choose the right product. 

If you’re preparing for an oil change and want to learn more about the difference between the two, keep reading. 

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant with fewer impurities than its conventional counterpart. It is designed with a more consistent molecular structure, which helps it perform better in extreme temperatures and under heavy loads. Synthetic oil typically contains additives to enhance its properties, including reducing friction, preventing sludge build-up, and protecting your engine from wear and tear. 

The Benefits of Synthetic Oil

Since its introduction in 1996, synthetic oil has become increasingly popular among car manufacturers. This is because of the many benefits of using synthetic oil in vehicles, including the following:

• Better performance in high and low temperatures
• Longer intervals between oil changes
• Improved fuel efficiency
• Reduced engine wear and cleaner operation 

What is Conventional Oil? 

Conventional oil, also known as mineral oil, is derived from crude oil and has been used in vehicles for decades. This oil undergoes a refining process to remove impurities, but it doesn’t have the enhanced features that synthetic oil offers. While it may not be as advanced as synthetic, it is still effective at lubricating and protecting your engine, especially in standard driving conditions.

The Benefits of Conventional Oil

Conventional oil has been used in vehicles since the late 19th century and was the premier engine lubricant in the earliest vehicles, including steam engines. Some of the benefits of using this oil in vehicles include the following: 

• More affordable than its synthetic counterparts
• Effective for older engines or low-mileage vehicles
• Works well in average driving conditions

How Do You Know Which Oil Your Car Uses? 

The easiest way to find out what type of oil your car requires is to check the owner’s manual. The manufacturer will specify whether your vehicle needs synthetic, conventional, or a blend of both. If you don’t have access to the manual, you can also check the oil cap under the hood or look up your car’s make and model online.

Other factors that might determine your car’s oil needs include:

• Age of the Vehicle: Older engines may benefit more from conventional oil, while modern engines often run better on synthetic oil.
• Driving Habits: If you frequently drive in extreme temperatures or heavy traffic, synthetic oil may be the better choice. Conventional oil can suffice for those with a more predictable commute and drive under normal conditions.
• Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Some car manufacturers specifically design their engines to work with synthetic oil for better performance. Using the recommended oil can help maintain your car’s warranty and ensure optimal engine health.

Does It Matter Which Oil You Use? 

While you may not realize it, the oil you use in your car has a major impact on its performance. Here’s why: 

Performance and Protection:

Synthetic products provide superior protection, especially when driving in extreme heat or cold. Its enhanced lubricating properties mean your engine runs smoother, quieter, and more efficiently. Conventional oil might not offer the same level of protection, especially if you’re dealing with high engine temperatures.

Longevity and Cost:

While synthetic is more expensive, it lasts longer than conventional oil. This means fewer oil changes, which can save you time and money in the long run. If you have a newer car or drive long distances regularly, synthetic oil can be a more cost-effective option. On the other hand, if you drive an older car with a lower mileage rate, conventional oil may be all you need.

Engine Requirements:

Using the wrong type of oil can lead to engine issues. If your car is designed to use synthetic, switching to conventional could cause problems. Similarly, switching from conventional to synthetic can sometimes cause leaks in older engines. It’s essential to follow your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid damage.

Synthetic Blend–Finding Middle Ground

For drivers who want some of the benefits of synthetic oil without the full price, synthetic blend oils are also available. These are mixtures of synthetic and conventional oils, offering some performance advantages at a lower cost.

Oil Changes and More in Roy, Utah

Choosing between synthetic and conventional oil depends on various factors, including your driving habits, the age of your car, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. While synthetic oil offers better performance, efficiency, and engine protection, conventional oil remains a reliable, budget-friendly option for many drivers. Always check your vehicle’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends, and consider your driving style and environment before deciding.

Keeping your engine running smoothly is crucial, and using the right oil is essential to vehicle maintenance. If you’re still unsure, consult a trusted mechanic, like our team at Paskett Auto, who can help you determine the best oil for your car. With years of experience helping vehicle owners across the Wasatch Front care for their vehicles, we’re confident we can do the same for you.

If you would like to schedule an oil change with our team or have any questions about our services, reach out to us today.

As temperatures drop, many drivers may wonder if they should let their car warm up before hitting the road. While it might seem like a good idea, the reality is much more complex. Can letting your car warm up before driving do more damage to your vehicle than you realize? In this blog, we’ll discuss whether warming up your car is beneficial, especially as cold weather approaches, and what laws you should be aware of if you live in Utah.  

The Myth About Letting Your Car Warm Up

There is a long-standing belief that letting your car warm up before driving helps it run smoother, especially as cold weather comes to town. This belief stems from a time when vehicles used carburetors, which did indeed need warming up to function properly. However, more modern vehicles are designed with fuel injection systems that adjust automatically to temperature changes, making lengthy warm-up times unnecessary. 

In most cases, your car’s engine will only need 30 seconds to a minute to warm up before it is safe to drive. In addition to requiring minimal warm-up time, driving your vehicle is actually a better way to warm up the engine because it gets the oil circulating faster, providing proper lubrication to the engine parts.

However, this is only possible if you are performing necessary maintenance on your vehicle. Before winter weather rolls into town, it is best to schedule an oil change and any other required maintenance and repairs for your car. Not only will this ensure it runs well when the temperature drops below zero, but it also ensures you have a safe vehicle to carry you throughout the season. 

The Harm of Extended Idling

Letting your car warm up for extended periods can lead to unnecessary and avoidable wear and tear on your engine. This is especially true in cold weather, as idling does not warm up the transmission, tires, or other essential components that also need to be at optimal temperatures for smooth operation. 

Letting your car warm up for extended periods also burns fuel inefficiently, leading to higher costs at the pump. More importantly, it can contribute to environmental pollution, emitting more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than necessary. If you are concerned about your gas bill or carbon footprint, it is best to avoid letting your car warm up this winter. 

What About During Extreme Cold? 

It is reasonable to give your vehicle a few extra moments to warm up in extremely cold temperatures or anything below freezing. But again, while you might want to let your car warm up, driving slowly and gently at the start is a more effective way to warm up all of your car’s components. Make sure to clear ice and snow from the windshield and mirrors, but don’t rely on idling to do this for you. Once this snow and ice is removed, it is safe to begin driving. 

Utah’s Idling Laws

If you live in Utah, being aware of local idling laws is important. Utah has specific regulations in place to limit vehicle idling as part of a long-standing effort to reduce air pollution. In many cities and counties, including Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Logan, vehicles are prohibited from idling for more than two minutes.

Violating Utah’s idling laws can result in a warning, a fine of up to $750, or up to 90 days in jail, depending on where you are. The state enforces these rules to help reduce emissions that contribute to air pollution, which is a serious issue in the winter months due to temperature inversions. If you are used to letting your car warm up for long periods, it is best to rethink this warm-up routine. 

Best Practice for Cold Weather Driving

If you have to drive your vehicle when the temperature is below freezing, there are a few things you should remember to do. These include:

• Limit Idle Time: When starting your car, it is best to give it about 30 seconds to a minute to warm up and then drive slowly. Your vehicle will heat up faster while in motion. 
• Use a Block Heater: If you live in an area with extremely cold winter weather, you should consider using a block heater to help your car warm up. This reduces the need for idling and makes starting your vehicle easier. 
• Keep Your Vehicle Maintained: Make sure your battery, fluids, and tires are winter-ready. A well-maintained vehicle will be less affected by cold starts. 

Protecting Your Vehicle All Year Long

While you may be tempted to let your car warm up before driving on a chilly morning, it is usually an unnecessary extra step for modern vehicles. Short idling times are sufficient, and driving gently is the most effective way to warm up your car. By following best practices and complying with Utah’s idling laws, you can save on fuel, protect your engine, and contribute to cleaner air. 

If, however, extended idling has harmed your vehicle, turn to our team at Paskett Auto for support. Whether you are dealing with minor vehicle problems or more extreme damage, our team is trained and equipped to handle it all. In addition to our more major vehicle repairs, we can help with yearly maintenance, ensuring your vehicle is in good working condition for years to come.

If you would like to schedule maintenance with our team or if you have any questions for us, don’t hesitate to contact us today.