DIY Repair > Are DIY Car Repairs Worth It?

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Whether you’re short on cash or just want to see if you can do it, DIY car repair can be enticing. It’s fun to pick up a new skill or try something out for the first time. Before you dive in head-first, let’s break down why DIY car repair might or might not be the best idea for you.

Car Repair Is Costly

Labor cost is a major part of a car repair expense. Every shop, including ours, charges an hourly rate for labor. This rate can vary between $55 to $150, depending on what kind of shop you visit. Smaller, family-owned shops lean towards the cheaper end of that spectrum, while larger chains are more expensive.

No matter how you look at it, these costs can be expensive. Keep in mind that this cost covers the mechanic’s time, knowledge, speed, tools, and parts. You might think you’re saving a lot with DIY car repair, but paying for the tools, parts, and any possible damage is more expensive.

Knowledge is Key

Mechanics spend a lot of hands-on time studying vehicular mechanics. This knowledge doesn’t come easy and it doesn’t come cheap. Of course, we are certain that you can change your own oil. Even the simplest repairs can lead to other issues if done improperly. We encourage you to take the risk but know that even the smallest of car repairs is complex.

Equipment and Car Repair Parts

It is very rare to have a lift and all of the right tools at your disposal. One way to tackle this challenge is to pay an hourly rate for a DIY repair shop that rents a bay and set of tools. If you are stuck with your repair and need help they also offer an ASE certified mechanic to help you out. Of course, there will be a charge for this service.

Parts

YIt is rare to own a lift with all the correct tools for car repair at your disposal. If you do, that’s incredible and DIY car repair is for you. If you don’t own any of these things but still want to try, you can rent a DIY repair shop at an hourly rate. These places not only offer a bay and set of tools, but also an ASE-certified mechanic if you get stuck (for a fee).

You can order virtually any part online or in a local store. Using a local store is usually a little more expensive but recommended if it’s urgent. Another good reason to shop locally is not only to support local businesses, but it’s much easier to exchange or return items.

Taking your vehicle in to a repair shop, you’re guaranteed a mechanic who has the know-how, a lift, and all the parts and equipment necessary to get your car repair done in a timely manner. The choice is yours.

Disposal

Doing your own oil change or replacing parts involves working with hazardous materials. Every repair shop follows strict regulations in order to dispose of these materials properly. Take this into account when you attempt your car repair.

If you’ve researched the problem and solution (YouTube is incredibly helpful, even for the most experienced technicians), then we applaud you in your DIY car repair attempt. Go for it. DIY repair helps a lot of owners feel connected to their car. Devoting your time to the repair isn’t a chore, it’s a pleasure. For those that have been persuaded not to attempt a car repair on their own, we welcome you to take it in to Luigie’s Auto Service.

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