Should You Tackle Car Repair Yourself?

In an era where everyone is looking for a way to save a dollar or two, many vehicle owners are tempted to tackle car repair jobs on their own. This can be an excellent way to save money, but it can also be a recipe for disaster. Before you attempt a job on your own, make sure you are skilled and qualified enough to do so well.

Evaluate the Task

The first step in determining if you are a DIY mechanic is evaluating the task at hand. Look up some instructions for the job, and read through them, taking note of each step. Are there any steps that you simply do not understand? What about steps that you do not think you can do safely? If the job seems overwhelming simply from the instructions, then you probably need to look at having someone else do it.

Evaluate the Tools

As you read through the steps to complete the job, take an inventory of your tools. Do you have the tools you need to do the car repair correctly? Sometimes, all you will need is one or two small, affordable items to round out your tools list. If this is the case, then proceed with the DIY job. However, sometimes you will find that you need an extensive list of tools, some of which are very expensive. If this is the case, evaluate whether you see yourself using those tools again. If you do not, you may be better off taking the vehicle to the mechanic. After all, why invest in tools when you could spend the same amount to have a professional do the job?

Evaluate Your Skills

Next, evaluate your skills. Do you know how to do the steps in the job? If not, can you find videos online that show you? Once you get your vehicle taken apart to start a job, you do not want to discover that you are not skilled enough to complete it. Be honest with yourself when evaluating your skills.

Evaluate Your Help

Some car repair jobs require more than one person, particularly if you do not have the tools you would find at a large shop. Do you have someone who can help you? If so, is that person capable of the job at hand? Your spouse, for instance, may be willing to help, but may not be strong enough or confident enough to really assist you in fixing the vehicle. Make sure you have enough help to do the job well.

Car repair can be a DIY job. You simply have to take the time to count the costs and assess your abilities before you start. If you doubt your abilities, then take it to a professional. You will not regret this choice when you have a vehicle that runs exactly as it should.