by Bob Wainwright

Created on: November 06, 2008   Last Updated: November 16, 2008

Car maintenance: Can you or should you do it yourself?

In this day and age we are all forced to cut expenses whenever possible, debut the well intended, cost conscious do-it-yourselfer. A fact evidenced by the increase in Do-It-Yourself sites now available to individuals. Regarding automobiles, there are many Auto Part stores, supermarkets are selling replacement light bulbs, fuses and motor oil. Department stores have automotive sections selling a large selection of items for the do-it-yourselfer. Many of the items sold come with instructions for use. Tools suitable for auto repair are widely available including metric sized required for foreign and more recently, domestic vehicles.

With the understanding that today's Automobile is a very sophisticated piece of equipment and often expensive to maintain, should one attempt to maintain one's own vehicle or have it done professionally? To aid in deciding, start by obtaining an estimate, possible two, specifying the work to be done. With this in hand...the scope of the work and cost is now known, usually at this point a decision can be made, e.g. either it is too involved, requiring specialized equipment and knowledge or, possibly it's within the capability of a mechanically savvy individual. Check the Vehicle's Owner manual for tips and suggestions.

Be objective when making a decision, if you don't understand in the least what the repair service is telling you; be reasonableit's beyond your capability! If it concerns an aspect of the vehicle's, very sophisticated safety system, have it repaired professionally. Always keep in mind that if the vehicle is newer and still under a warranty, any home repair that goes afoul, may void the warranty, leaving the well intended owner with a much larger repair bill, e.g. the cost of the original repair as well as, the cost of repairing unintended damage. Many of the vehicles functions are under the control of the onboard computer, any power interruptions or fluctuations, introduction of replacement parts, etc., may require re-formatting (resetting) the computer before the engine will start and run.

Of course, there are jobs that can be successfully undertaken by the average person, replacing burned out light bulbs, changing the engine oil (remember that waste motor oil is considered a hazardous material and must be disposed of properly). Certain fluids can be checked and replaced as needed, as well as air cleaners, both for the engine and in the case of newer cars, the cabin

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