Learning About Auto Services

Working on your car can be exciting; it can also save you money. However, it can also be dangerous, especially if you don't have the necessary experience. Here are some of the threats to worry about while working on your car:

Fire

Car repair and fire do not go well together. Don't think that it's just the fuel system, such as the tank, pump, and injectors, which can easily catch fire. It's not just the fuel system and related components you have to worry about; there are other parts of the car that can catch fire easily too. The battery also produces hydrogen gas, which is so inflammable it can be ignited even by a spark.

Therefore, don't smoke or bring any fire near the car. There is also the risk of electrical fires, especially if you plan on working on electrical components of your car such as the ignition. As an added protection, have a fire extinguisher near you at all times.

Electrical Shock

There is also the risk of electrical shock, which can come from different sources. The electrical components of your car include the battery, the alternator, fuses, lights, and instruments and gauges, among others. Be careful even with those components that don't use much power; they can still give you a nasty shock if there is a malfunction that leads to a short.

Prevent electrical shocks by carrying out only repairs within your capability. Disconnecting the battery cables, or removing the relevant fuse, before carrying out electrical work may also help.

Cuts and Physical Blows

Lastly, you should also be on the lookout for cuts and physical blows. Cuts can come from different sources, such as fans, broken glass, wires and many other things. Your hand may even slip and get cut when screwing or unscrewing a bolt or nut. There is also the risk of physical blows; for example, trying to lift a heavy component alone is dangerous since it may slip and fall on your feet.

Here are some of the safety precautions to prevent cuts and blows:

• Don't wear loose clothing that may get caught up in moving parts and lead to cuts.
• Have a buddy or a lifting instrument to help you do the heavy lifting.
• Work in a quiet area to minimize distractions that may startle you.

The main advice for preventing DIY injuries is to handle only the repairs or services you can handle. For all other automotive repairs, let your mechanic handle the work since he or she has the experience and is less likely to get hurt.