by Brian Dooley

Created on: April 07, 2007   Last Updated: April 10, 2007

I'm a guy. In fact, on the "guy" scale I'd probably hit a solid 9. I'm only missing about 6 inches Of height.

I like watching sports, bowling, shooting guns, guy's night poker I hit every topic on the spectrum. Save one. Cars.

Granted, I LIKE cars. Love em, in fact. I simply have come to strong understanding that my wife has been telling me for years, "close the hood, you don't recognize ANYTHING".

Now, don't get me wrong. I used to change my own oil, rotate my tires and replace the occasional alternator that went out on a 1985 Buick.

But my car isn't a Buick. And it's definitely not 1985. Today's cars are moved far beyond anything the local Snap On driver could deliver tools for.

According to Consumer Reports, today's modern engines have over 70 parts directly or indirectly effected by computer controlled systems. And in the process of a do-it-yourselfer tinkering with unknown pulleys and wheels, there's a new level of risking inherent damage to sensitive parts than ever before.

While it's tempting to save a few bucks trying to repair or replace parts from your local automotive store, a word of caution; what if you damage something ELSE?

By taking your '06 or later vehicle to a trained ASE mechanic, you not only ensure proper repair of the original problem, you prevent potential problems. And, should a worst-case scenario arise, you now have legal recourse to resolve the matter.

Granted, I love the pride in knowing I can fix and maintain my "manly" responsibilities, but for the cost of $29.95 to pay some else to change my oil, I also gain some insurance.

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