Cars have come a long way in the last few decades. They are more fuel-efficient, but they're also packed with new features and technologies to make repairs and maintenance a breeze. However, even with these advancements, there are still some basic repairs that you can do on your own to save time and money. This article will teach you how to do some basic field repairs on modern cars.

Flat Tire

The tools that can deal with flat tires include a lug wrench, a floor jack, and a spare tire. These items can usually be found in the trunk of the car. If you don't have a spare tire, you can also use a tire inflator to pump up the tire and get it back on the road.

Thus, if you have a flat tire, the first thing you'll want to do is locate the spare tire. In most cases, it will be in the trunk of the car. Once you've found it, take out the jack and place it under the vehicle to elevate the wheel. Then, use the wrench to loosen the lug nuts that hold the wheel. 

Once they are loose, remove the wheel and put the spare tire on. Tighten the lug nuts with the wrench, lower the car, and you're good to go.

Engine Defects

If your car's engine starts to overheat, it could be due to several different issues. One possibility is that the radiator is not properly functioning. In this case, you'll want to check the coolant level and add more if necessary. Another possibility is that there is a leak in the radiator hose. To check for this, feel around the hose for any wetness. If there is, you'll need to replace the hose.

An auto diagnostic scan tool can be used to read and clear codes on your car's computer. This can be helpful if you're having trouble diagnosing an issue with your vehicle. It can also be used to reset the check engine light. A good scanner tool should give precise details about the troubleshooting. These days, modern scanning gadgets have Bluetooth features making them easy to connect with your Android devices.

Dead Battery

If your car battery is dead, you'll need to jumpstart it to get it going again. First, make sure that the car battery is the only thing that's not working. If the headlights and radio are working, something else is likely causing the problem.

If the battery is the issue, you'll need to find another car with a working battery for the jumpstart. Park the two vehicles so that the batteries are close, but make sure not to let the two cars touch.

Next, open the hoods of both cars and locate the batteries. Most batteries will have a positive (red) and negative (black) terminal. Take the jumper cables and attach the dead battery's positive terminal to the working battery's positive terminal. Then, do the same for the negative terminals.

Once the cables are attached, start the car with the working battery and let it run for a few minutes. Then, try starting your car. If it starts, you can disconnect the jumper cables and be on your way. You may need to call a tow truck if it doesn't start.

Faulty Tail Light

If you have a broken taillight, you'll need to replace the entire assembly. First, locate the screws that hold the taillight in place and remove them with a screwdriver. Then, pull the tail light out and disconnect the wires.

Next, take the new taillight and connect the wires. Then, screw it into place and test it to ensure it's working. If everything is working properly, then you're all set.

However, remember all taillights are not the same. Each vehicle has its specific tail light assembly designed to fit that make and model. You'll need to purchase the correct tail light assembly for your vehicle to ensure a proper fit.

It is essential to follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions when performing any repairs or maintenance on your car. They will have specific information about the best way to care for your vehicle, and following their directions can help prolong the life of your car and avoid expensive repairs.

Additionally, many states have laws that require you to perform repairs and maintenance by the manufacturer's directions to keep your car legal. So, it is a good idea to follow the instructions, but it may also be required by law.

With basic knowledge of car repairs, you can easily handle minor problems by yourself without going to the mechanic for every little thing. This will save you time and money, but it will also give you a sense of satisfaction knowing that you could fix the problem on your own.