Tools and safety

Tools that make a difference

Service manual
If you're keen to do some service work, get a service manual. Perhaps the best known of these is the Haynes and Gregory's series. These cost less than official factory manuals and are produced with the amateur mechanic in mind. Find one for your car at auto-parts outlets, specialist or second-hand bookstores, or internet booksellers such as amazon.com.

Ramps
On modern cars, oil filters and the like are usually reached more easily from underneath. That's why garages use hoists so often. At home, a pair of ramps makes the job much easier and safer. Get them from hardware and auto-parts stores.

Oil filter wrenches
You can tighten modern oil filters by hand, but you sure can't remove them that way. There are many different oil filter wrenches on the market. Most operate on the principle of a band that tightens around the filter body. Buy the type that best fits the space available in your engine bay.

Drain pans
Use plastic oil-drain pans to collect oil drained from the vehicle. Pour the used oil from the drain pan into used two-litre plastic milk containers, label them clearly, and take them to a recycling collection point.

Danger zones

Fans/rotating parts
A finger caught between a rotating pulley and a belt is likely to be crushed or severed in an instant. Fan blades will do the same - and electric fans can start without warning. When the engine is going, keep your hands out from under the bonnet.

Ignition system shocks
Modern ignition systems can deliver up to 40,000 volts to the spark plug. Don't touch the ignition HT leads (the thick wires that run to the spark plugs) when the engine is running.

Jacks
The jack supplied with your car is designed for changing wheels, not maintenance. If you intend working under the car, use ramps. Alternatively, raise the car with a trolley jack, and support it on axle stands. Never support a car with bricks or concrete blocks, as these can suddenly crumble when subjected to high point-loads.

Used fluids
Brake fluid and used oil can cause skin irritation. Use disposable gloves.