Repairing Your Own Car: 7 Easy-to-replace Parts Without The Hassle

Car maintenance isn't just for the pros. Some parts can be replaced very easily, without sophisticated tools and without taking any risks. As a result, you save time, money, and gain independence... In this clear and concrete article, we list 7 truly accessible replacements, with practical tips and mistakes to avoid.

Before you begin: safety and compatibility

Work with the vehicle stationary, parking brake engaged, engine off, and proper lighting. It's better to use gloves and a rag.
Take a photo before disassembly, just in case... Check compatibility by brand, model, engine type, and year.
Look at the original reference when possible.
Regarding tires and fuel consumption, remember the pressure; underinflation by 0.5 bar increases fuel consumption by about 2.4% according to eco-driving recommendations, a small figure that adds up over the year.

Why It's Worth It in 2025

The cost of parts has generally increased over the past few years, prompting a comparison and equipping at the right price. More and more motorists are ordering their parts online for the final bill, but also for the ease of access to references and reviews. The moral of the story is that for these 7 replacements, reasonable DIY remains a very good calculation, especially if you choose approved parts and follow the steps calmly.

And to find the right reference at the right price, the website Carmino.fr makes the search much simpler on both mobile and desktop.

1- Front windshield wipers

- Difficulty: 1 out of 5, Time: 5 minutes, Budget: 10 to 30 € per pair
- Symptoms: streaks, squeaks, unwiped area
- Quick Steps: lift the arm, unclip the old wiper, clip on the new one, lower gently, test
- Mistake to Avoid: letting the metal arm fall back onto the windshield, as it can crack
- Tip: replace in pairs for even wiping

2- Cabin air filter

- Difficulty: 1 out of 5, Time: 10 minutes, Budget: 10 to 25 €
- Effects: less fogging, less dust and odors in the cabin
- Steps: open the hatch on the glove box side or passenger footwell, remove the old filter, note the airflow direction, insert the new one, close
- City tip: activated carbon filter for better odor trapping

Engine air filter

- Difficulty: 1 out of 5, Time: 10 minutes, Budget: 10 to 35 €
- Symptoms: slight loss of pickup, increased fuel consumption
- Steps: open the housing, remove the dirty filter, check the peripheral seal, install the new one, close it straight
- Tip: blowing out the old one with a compressor can help... but it does not replace a new one

4- Front lighting bulbs

- Difficulty: 2 out of 5, Time: 10 to 15 minutes, Budget: €5 to €25 per bulb
- Common types: H7, H4, sidelights... Check the reference in the manual
- Steps: access the light from the back, unclip the connector, remove the bulb, do not touch the glass of halogen bulbs, reconnect, test
- Note: for LED, only if the part is certified and compatible with the original light fixture

Rear wiper blade

- Difficulty: 1 out of 5, Time: 3 minutes, Budget: 8 to 20 €
- Steps: raise the arm, unclip the old wiper, clip on the new one, verify the exact length

6- Fuses

- Difficulty: 2 out of 5, Time: 5 to 10 minutes, Budget: under 10€
- Symptoms: a piece of equipment suddenly stops working, such as cigarette lighter, interior lighting, etc.
- Steps: locate the fuse box, pull out the old fuse with the small pliers, check it against the light, replace with the same amperage, close the box
- Mistake to avoid: never install a fuse with a higher amperage

Battery

- Difficulty: 3 out of 5, Time: 20 to 30 minutes, Budget: €70 to €180 depending on capacity
- When to consider: sluggish starts, clock resetting, battery 4 to 5 years old
- Steps: keep the radio codes if necessary, disconnect starting with the negative terminal -, then the positive +, remove the old one, install the new one, reconnect + then -, tighten firmly without overdoing it
- Tip: a memory saver can avoid having to reconfigure windows and car radio, handy but not mandatory

Where to buy parts online without making a mistake

Prioritize clear categories, an effective vehicle filter, sharp photos, and a straightforward return policy. Compare prices and delivery times; some differences may surprise you... For quick access on mobile and desktop, Carmino.fr bets on simplified vehicle-based search and competitive rates.
Before placing an order, double-check the reference one last time and keep the packaging until the part is installed.

Express Summary Table

Part	Difficulty	Time	Indicative Budget	Usual Savings
Front wiper blades	1-5	5 min	€10-30	Saved fitting €20-40
Cabin filter	1-5	10 min	€10-25	Saved fitting €30-60
Air filter	1-5	10 min	€10-35	Saved fitting €30-70
Bulbs	2-5	10-15 min	€5-25	Saved fitting €20-50
Rear wiper blade	1-5	3 min	€8-20	Saved fitting €15-30
Fuses	2-5	5-10 min	<€10	Saved fitting €15-30
Battery	3-5	20-30 min	€70-180	Saved fitting €40-100

Quick FAQ

- Is it legal to buy parts online? Yes, as long as they are compliant and certified, keep the invoice and packaging.
- Do we lose the warranty by installing parts ourselves? No, for a standard part installed correctly, keep your proof of purchase and take two photos of the installation, it's useful in case of doubt.
- LED instead of halogen? Only if the bulb is certified and compatible with the optics.
- How often should filters be changed? Cabin and air filters are often changed once a year or according to the maintenance schedule.

Nota Bene

Everything related to braking, airbags, steering, suspensions, high-pressure circuits... head to the garage. The goal here is not to tinker randomly but to focus on simple and safe actions. If an access point is too tight on your model, there's no point in forcing it; a professional will do it faster.

Conclusion

With these 7 easy steps, you take control of your car budget. No need to be an expert, just methodical. Choose the right reference, take your time, and you will see that it's within everyone's reach. To compare and order easily, the most comfortable option is to go through a clear and competitive website... Then, all that's left is to enjoy a well-maintained vehicle.