If you're ever in need of maintenance or repair on your Subaru, you know where to turn: The friendly and knowledgeable experts in our service department at Capitol Subaru know Subaru engineering inside and out! But we're more than just a repair place -- we're a complete resource for Subaru owners. If you're the kind to work on your own car, we've got the high-quality parts you need and knowledgeable experts at our parts department, too. We've gathered these four tips that'll help you get started on DIY automotive maintenance.
4. Use All the Right Tools
With just a socket set, an adjustable wrench, a jack and jackstands, you can handle all sorts of DIY maintenance projects. But before you begin, it's smart to make sure you have all the tools you'll need for the job. So, planning to change your oil? Make sure you've got an oil filter wrench that fits the oil filter on your engine. Topping off some fluids? Make sure you get the exact fluid your car requires by checking your owner's manual first. Putting the wrong fluid in can affect your car's performance and even cause damage! And you don't want to get halfway through a project on your car before realizing you're missing a part or tool that you need.
Stop by the Capitol Subaru service center if you need help finding a particular part or tool for your project.
3. Use Long-Lasting Parts
Installing your own parts on your car? Be sure you know where your parts are coming from, and use the parts recommended for your car by the manufacturer. For instance, don't get a generic oil filter for your car when you can get an OEM oil filter direct from Subaru! OEM parts are built or approved by the manufacturer, so you know they'll fit right and last a long time. Not all aftermarket alternatives offer you this same level of quality.
Skip the auto parts store and head to Capitol Subaru when you're doing your own maintenance and we'll make sure you get all the best OEM parts, filters and factory-approved fluids to get the most out of your new parts.
2. Know Where to Go for Research
Popular magazines, blogs and YouTube videos can empower you to tackle tougher projects -- but don't get too excited and bite off more than you can chew. A project that looks simple on one make and model might be a much different project on other cars. What's more, not everyone publishing material online has your best interests at heart.
Before embarking on a new project for the first time, make sure you know how it'll go on your car, and be sure that you're using accurate, trustworthy sources of information. If a project that you thought was manageable turns out to be a little out of your reach, don't hesitate to visit our service center at Capitol Subaru for a helping hand.
1. Safety First
Above all else, take every safety precaution when maintaining your own car!
So, that means waiting for the engine to cool down before opening up the radiator -- else you could suffer a bad burn from splashing coolant. It means disconnecting the battery from the car before working on any components that run on electricity -- or you could short out the system or even get a nasty shock. It means wearing sturdy gloves when working around spinning parts -- to prevent your fingers, fingernails or jewelry from getting caught. It means making sure you have sturdy jack stands when climbing under the car, or else ... well, I don't think we need to explain why faulty jack stands would be dangerous.
If you're performing a repair, make sure you know the safety risks involved, so you can take precautions. With solid jack stands, a pair of sturdy gloves and good shop glasses, you'll be protected from superhot car parts, fluid splashes and other dangers. You'll find those items and other DIY auto care accessories you might need here at our parts desk at Capitol Subaru.
Capitol Subaru of Salem
920 Auto Group Ave NE
Salem, OR 97301
- Sales: 503-587-5500
- Service: 503-587-5500
- Parts: 503-587-5500
