Between dropping the kids off at school and football practice, family road trips, run-away carriages at the local grocery store parking lot, and your kid’s first driving lessons, inevitably, the family van might start to look like a beat-up race car.

Repairs

After some time, your vehicle becomes run down and starts to age, showing signs of battle wounds. We all hate going to that greasy mechanic and having to fork out the cash. Hopefully, you have found that elusive and one-of-a-kind mechanic that loves your car like his own.

AC Cabin Filters

Have you ever noticed at times, when you turn your AC on, there is a smell? This is most likely your “Cabin Filter.” It is recommended that you change your filter annually or every 12,000 miles. If you live in a heavily polluted area, it may be best to change the filter every 5,000 miles. You can normally replace this filter yourself and save some money. Refer to your vehicle’s manual or online for the location and correct size filter. Cost $10-$30

Light Bulbs

Here is another common problem that you can fix yourself, and sometimes without any tools. Anyone can change light bulbs. Always use the correct bulbs called out by the factory. Cost $10-$30.

Windshield Replacement

Your car will not pass an inspection in many states, depending on where the chip or crack is located on your windshield. It’s important to visit a glass company to repair any small chips. Over time, a chip can lead to a large crack, causing your vehicle and line of sight to be unsafe. This may be when you need windshield replacement. If your windshield does need to be replaced, only an auto glass company can perform this task. It can be a very speedy process, even conveniently coming to your home or workplace. Cost $100-$400, depending on the car; it can be as high as $1500.

Brakes

This is a big one. You want to be able to stop. Depending on various factors, your brakes will need to be replaced anywhere from 30k mile-60k miles. This needs to be completed by a trained professional. Sometimes you can get away with only changing the brake pads; always ask your mechanic if that’s an option. Since this work is costly, it is wise to get a second opinion. Cost $400-$800.

Being prepared helps alleviate the stress of owning a car. Why not learn a little about car maintenance, what you can do yourself, and what to leave to the professionals. It might just save you some money.