Important Precautions for Working Safely on Cars at Home

Some mechanical repairs are easy to fix from home. Nevertheless, safely fixing up vehicles just like a professional mechanic is an essential step to take. Before starting your next automotive repair, take these important precautions for working safely on cars at home.

Start With Safety Gear

The first step of a safe repair is to start with strong safety gear. Protecting yourself is always the number one priority. To ensure your protection, here are some items you’ll need for the job:

• Safety glasses
• Dust mask
• Tight-fitted long sleeves and pants
• Sturdy close-toed shoes
• Puncture- and chemical-resistant gloves
• Ear protection

Always Work on a Level Surface

Whether you’re raising the vehicle in the air with jacks or leaving it parked on the ground, always work on a level surface. Perhaps you only have space to work on a slanted or rocky driveway. Move the vehicle to a flat, sturdy surface so you can safely begin work.

Double-Check That the Vehicle Is Sturdy and Locked in Place

With a car placed on a level area, now you must ensure it won’t move during the repair. Wheel chocks are a tool you should always have handy. They’re wedges made from plastic, wood, or steel that secure the wheels in place to prevent any movement.

If the vehicle shifts as you’re working, it can endanger you and others. Wheel chocks are an essential way to ensure you aren’t in danger while working on the car.

Remember To Ventilate the Workspace

Burning gasoline or diesel in an unventilated area can emit byproducts like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. These toxic fumes can be fatal.

While you’re ready to complete the repair, one step you cannot skip is ventilating the workspace. Keep the garage door open, or consider installing an exhaust fan to ensure ample airflow.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Vehicles are complicated pieces of machinery. With various chemicals, metal parts, and electrical components, you never know when a fire could ignite.

To guarantee your safety, store a fire extinguisher nearby in the workspace. If a fire ever sparks, you’ll be prepared to diffuse the situation.

Ask for Some Assistance

A friend or a family member can make fixing up a vehicle much easier. They can hold tools at the ready, lift heavy items, and act in an emergency. When you work with someone else, you put yourself in a better position for safer automotive repair.

Summer is a great time to repair a transmission, but you can’t embark on the repair until you think about how to protect yourself. With these important precautions to take so you can work safely on cars at home, you’re sure to get the transmission up and running!