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 air circulation system, to mention a few.
There are many websites and publications available that will guide an individual through a repair, but a basic mechanical ability is usually understood, as is the availability of required tools. Many times the owner may lack the expertise to do such work but, may have an acquaintance that does. Unfortunately the owner will be stuck if things go wrong. Remember a recent advertisement for automobile repair, "pay me now or, pay me later!"
If a professional repair that is not covered by the vehicle's warranty is requiredthe owner does have some control. Get a second corroborating opinion, understand completely what is to be done and why, inquire if there is any possibility of supplying replacement parts and ask that any defective parts that have been replaced be returned to you, this may avoid having otherwise good parts replaced unnecessarily. In addition, there are many websites that provide guidance regarding the quality and dependability of repair services, check with local "Better Business" resources. Oftentimes unscrupulous individuals will be noted. Sites such as AAA.com will guide one toward reputable service providers as will many local Auto Clubs.
If the decision is toward Do-It-Yourself, an Internet Search Engine (i.e. Google.com) will generate many helpful hints, diagnostics, detailed instructions and so on. Sources for replacement parts are also listed.