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Just wondering, how many of you rather do your own car maintenance than to take it into a mechanic?
I know how to fix some things (anything interior, or changing out lights/bulbs, easy to reach engine parts), but others I just don't want to be bothered with e.g. anything that requires me to jack up a car and go underneath, changing fluids, etc.
Whats your take? Is there a time where its better to do yourself or better to take to a mechanic?
I do all tune ups myself. Oil changes, spark plugs, air filters and etc. Replaced my headlights and grille a couple months ago. If it's major engine repair, I take it to my cousin/neighbor who builds motors for a living.
Just wondering, how many of you rather do your own car maintenance than to take it into a mechanic?
I know how to fix some things (anything interior, or changing out lights/bulbs, easy to reach engine parts), but others I just don't want to be bothered with e.g. anything that requires me to jack up a car and go underneath, changing fluids, etc.
Whats your take? Is there a time where its better to do yourself or better to take to a mechanic?
It really depends on what kind of car you have. I now have a 1991 Ford Escort that is really easy to maintain, and everything is easily accessible. However, I have owned other cars that were nightmares, and I had to take in. Namely my Supra Turbo, and Subaru SVX. Most of the newer cars are even going to be tougher and/or impossible for the DIY person.
I pretty much DIY everything, occasionally farming out some major repairs but mostly DIY. But I have tools and a decent garage with compressed air, etc.
Most people can take a shop manual and do at least oil changes and tuneups.
Oil changes have been beat to death here, about the only way to get a responsible adult to do the work is to go to a 1-man shop or DIY.
It really depends on what kind of car you have. I now have a 1991 Ford Escort that is really easy to maintain, and everything is easily accessible. However, I have owned other cars that were nightmares, and I had to take in. Namely my Supra Turbo, and Subaru SVX. Most of the newer cars are even going to be tougher and/or impossible for the DIY person.
Very true, depends on what kind of car. Damn a front wheel drive vehicle when it comes to changing spark plugs and exhaust manifold/header gaskets.
My thing is right now I'm in the process of relocating to another part of the state...and I know there's some things I have to get done...but am not in the position to shell to the mechanic.
I know I can do the work, but its just a matter of trusting myself and the techniques. BTW I have a 96 toyota 4 cylinder, Its fairly easy...nothing covered up.
I also live in an apt. complex, so unlike some of you who have garages...its not as accesible, although the Mexican guys around here turn the parking lot into a full-service center most weekends
Do you have friends with garage space? Working in an apt. parking lot is the pits, really.
Start with the simplest stuff first, build your confidence.
Maybe you can recruit the Mexican guys to help you out? That may or may not be a good idea, I offer it for consideration, not necessarily for implementation...
Remind us where you are again. Obviously all over CONUS the weather is not getting any better, although if you are in SoCal, it's probably going to be OK throughout the winter.
Do you have friends with garage space? Working in an apt. parking lot is the pits, really.
Start with the simplest stuff first, build your confidence.
Maybe you can recruit the Mexican guys to help you out? That may or may not be a good idea, I offer it for consideration, not necessarily for implementation...
Remind us where you are again. Obviously all over CONUS the weather is not getting any better, although if you are in SoCal, it's probably going to be OK throughout the winter.
I'm in North Texas. Yesterday the weather was crap...today its sunny but cold. But, I think sunny and cold is better than what I'm used to...partly cloudy, 96 degrees with a chance of thunderstorms LOL in Florida LOL.
As far as asking these guys to help me out? Hell to the Nah! I don't think they speak a lick of English, I'm better off on my own or my bro.
But yeah, apartment parking lot is all I have. I've done some minor things here...but it seems to draw alot of attention, and I hate that! Maybe I'll get up early on this week when everyone is at work and school. Besides, school ends this week...I'll have even more time on my hands. But Im in the process of moving, thats whats holding me up. Im not as free as I though
I am cheap and I also don't trust anyone else's work... I DIY everything. Well everything except alignments, I am very hesitant even with those so I ask for computer readouts.
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