Here is my first video for DIY vehicle maintenance. I hope people enjoy and learn from it.
Tag: DIY
3 Ways to Find a Good Mechanic
Going into the New Year, I'm sure many of you have New Year's Resolutions. Maybe goals like, losing weight, volunteering more, getting your house cleaned up, making more money, etc. How about the New Year's Resolution… Keep your car in good running condition. The best way to do that is to have a good mechanic to service your car.
There are several ways to find a good mechanic to service your vehicle. Here are 3 ways to find a Good Mechanic:
- Ask a Mechanic: Seems obvious. If you know a DIY or Shadetree mechanic ask them if they know of any good shops in the area. Even if they like working on their own vehicles, they'll have to go to a shop for some work. (Such as installing tires, alignments) More importantly than knowing what is a good shop, they'll probably know what the bad shops in the area are. Also if you have a specific brand of car, they might know a good shop to take your specific brand of car. Many shops specialize in certain brands of cars.
- Friends, Family, Neighbors: Asking people you know is always a good idea. Maybe they have a friend who is a mechanic. Maybe a neighbor has a great mechanic they've been going to for years. Word-of-Mouth is still a good way to find a mechanic. Ask around and see if you can find good shop or mechanic from someone who's opinion your trust.
- Internet: I would suggest checking online lastly. he internet is a great tool. However, I would be careful. I've seen several shops with great online reviews, but I know the service they provide is less than adequate. If you don't have anyone to ask or have come up with no good shops from people you know, you'll probably turn to looking at online reviews. The best website with auto shop reviews is the CarTalk Mechanic's Files. It's been around the longest and has the most extensive database of reviewed shops
DIY Sunshade Update

It's been hot for last few weeks! Sufficient time to test the Adams Auto Advice DIY Sunshade. My Stepdad has reported that it has been working well in his Volvo S40, and fits quite well. It keeps the car cooler, and is a great talking point with people. I was actually surprised by how well it seemed to work. I encourage others to make their own DIY Sunshade. Your car's interior will appreciate it more than you will!
Adam’s Awesome DIY Car Sunshade!
If you want to have a little fun, you can make you own Sunshade. I made one today, and it came out pretty well. It only took me a few minutes.
Here is what you'll need:
- Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil
- Cardboard or Cardboard Box
- Measuring Tape
- Scissors
- Duct Tape
- I'd measure your windshield and see how big a piece of Cardboard you might need in your car. I just cut a section of an old moving box we had in the basement.
- Stretch the Aluminum Foil over the cardboard. The Aluminum Foil fit well over the piece of cardboard box I cut. Remember to have the Shinier side facing outward, since it will be more effective. If your piece is large, try to cut and position the Foil to cover the spare areas.
- Use the Duck Tape and tape up the back. I'd also suggest back-taping the flat areas of the Aluminum Foil.
- Put it in your Car!
I'd suggest using Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil, because the normal type will most likely ripe. Also, if you don't already have these materials lying around, it's probably better to just buy a Sunshade. Of course, I had a lot of fun making mine! These pictures should help you make your own DIY Sunshade.