Does anyone work on their own vehicle these days? (Belfast: house, maintenance)

[melinuxfool]

I don't do anything major, because I don't have that much know-how or the tools to do certain things. But I can do the majority of routine maintenance type stuff. I'm gradually learning more and more, as time passes.

It seems like the cost to go to the garage is so prohibitive these days, that on my budget, it's either learn to DIY or it doesn't get done.

[shadowfax1997]

I used to do all oil changes, but with engine compartments more cramped with hoses and such, I decided to just have jiffy lube do it. They also clean out the inside when they change oil, and price isn't too bad. I do tire rotations and brakes. Tried changing the plugs in my truck, but you would have to disassemble half the truck to get to the rear cylinders. PITA.

Best thing I did was become buddies with a mechanic. He charges for parts and about half for the work, and I feed him, or help with work around his house, or trade labor for firewood. Crap like that. The Big dealerships are charging WAY too much - $98/hour last time I was in.

[BacktoNE]

Considering that they have to be hooked up to a computer to even find out what's wrong with them, nope. There is a reason why some people learn to be mechanics, and the rest of us don't. I consider it my contribution to their livelihood.

[Northern Maine Land Man]

Mufflers last a very long time now. However, shocks and brakes are simple to do on most vehicles. Struts are beyond the average home mechanic. You can do a lot to save yourself money.

[peachie_in_maine]

we still do minor things in our house on the vehicles. But, when it gets into time saving... for us time is "precious" and giving up some cash works about the same in some cases.

[cdodge04]

I do all my own fluid changes and minor work such as alternators, batteries, thermostats etc. During the winter time I goto VIP to get an oil change because it's too cold to get on the floor...even though I have a garage.

A word of caution to those who goto places to have their oil changed...I know 3 people who have gone to a place in Belfast to have thier oil changed and the place did not property change the oil filter causing the oil to blow out everywhere. One of those people ended up with a cooked engine, the other two were lucky enough to not have any damages. I'm not sure if it was just the luck of the draw and it happened 3 times at that certain place or the people there are just careless....either way I stay away from there.

When I get my oil changed at VIP during the winter I take the time to check the filter and the plug when I get home to ensure that all is ok.

[lrfox]

When I had my GMC Suv, it was roomy and easy to do basic maintenance, but now, my foreign sendan is a bit trickier and I generally take it in. The cost of messing up is too high. It stinks though, because an $18 dollar oil change turns into $50+ after a VIP or Prompto type has to take off the skid plate underneath to reach the oil pan. Thankfully, I only have to do it about once every 10,000 miles. If I have time to set up an appointment, I'll take it to the dealer.

[melinuxfool]

Originally Posted by lrfox

When I had my GMC Suv, it was roomy and easy to do basic maintenance, but now, my foreign sendan is a bit trickier and I generally take it in. The cost of messing up is too high. It stinks though, because an $18 dollar oil change turns into $50+ after a VIP or Prompto type has to take off the skid plate underneath to reach the oil pan. Thankfully, I only have to do it about once every 10,000 miles. If I have time to set up an appointment, I'll take it to the dealer.

Yes, because it is SO difficult for them to unscrew a few bolts to remove that skid plate.

[ADSLubec]

Gave that up years ago. I remember the days when I knew what everything under the hood was and I could replace parts and fix things as needed. Back then you could open the hood and actually see the ground underneath. Nowadays the engine compartment is so full of electronics and hoses you can't drop a grain of rice through to the ground.

My brother was an automotive mechanic for many years but eventually gave that up as things got more and more complicated. He's now a happily employed welder.

Alan

[unconscious]

having trouble changing plugs? must be a ford.