The Pros and Cons of DIY Car Repairs

When you own a car, you have to be responsible for its maintenance and repairs. While this sounds obvious, it's no secret that regular car servicing doesn't come cheap. Rather, it puts a heavy strain on your wallet. But this is not an excuse to forgo car maintenance, as, in the long run, the absence of regular car servicing will only cost you much more. 

Thus, what are the options one is left with? For one, you can try doing this maintenance yourself. It will not only save you costs but also allow you to learn more about your car, and thus you will be less likely to be scammed. But even a DIY car repair has its own pros and cons, which we have discussed below.

How To Decide On DIY Repairs?

Before deciding on a DIY repair, there are certain factors you have to take into account. These factors determine whether your car requires light repairs or maintenance that you can handle yourself or if it needs some major work, for which you'd have to reach out to a reputed mechanic. 

The severity of the repair

First, as mentioned earlier, we have to take into consideration the severity of the repair itself. If it is something light, like changing the oil filter or installing a tyre, yes, it can be done by yourself, and that too, quite easily. However, if the car repair involves something like changing the transmission system or suspension, then it is best to look for an auto repair shop.

Safety concerns

You should always prioritize your own safety when attempting any car servicing. If the issue is with the electrical systems or the safety features of the car, such as the airbags, then it's best if you look for professional car repair in Newbury. 

Cost

Lastly, cost is and always will be a factor when choosing whether to handle repairs by yourself or to entrust them to a professional. Sometimes it is rather cost-effective to let a mechanic do what is required.

Advantages of DIY Car Repairs

You should always go for regular car servicing. If you are a driver in the UK, then surely you must get your car serviced around the time when you book MOT in Newbury. However, if possible, you must consider DIY repairs, as they offer significant advantages such as:

A Sense of Accomplishment

While it is not a material benefit, it is still something worth having. When you service or maintain your car yourself, you get a sense of accomplishment, which can be a great achievement and a source of pride. 

Proper Control Over The Repair Process

When doing your own car repairs, you can control the entire process freely. Doing so will allow you to get the parts you want and use them accordingly without the fear of getting ripped off. 

Flexible Schedule

Since you are the one doing the repairs, you don't have to adhere to someone else’s timeline. Rather, you are free to do your own thing at your own time. 

Learn More About Your Car

You get to learn more about your car when you maintain it yourself. This knowledge can prove very essential, especially when you have to take your car to a mechanic for future repairs. 

Cost Effective

It is no surprise that DIY repairs are substantially cost-effective. When you pay a mechanic, you are not only paying for the task he is currently doing, rather you are paying for his professional skill, training, and education, along with the labor and the car parts. Thus, by simply switching to a DIY repair, you'd save on all these costs. 

Disadvantages of DIY Car Repairs 

While all these sound good, it is no surprise that DIY repairs also come with their fair share of trouble. Given below are a few cons associated with DIY repairs. We suggest going through them before deciding on the car service you should get. 

Complex or Advanced Repairs Require Professionals

This is something we stated much earlier. DIY repairs are only possible (and advisable) for simpler repairs and maintenance tasks. When it involves heavy lifting or includes something complex, it's best to leave it to the professionals, as tinkering with such repairs might lead to even more complications and expenses down the line. 

One Must Have The Time For DIY

If you are a busy person or if your day is jam-packed, DIY repairs are not something you can undertake. It's true that DIY repairs will save you a ton of time, but you must have time in the first place to even attempt such repairs on your own. Furthermore, these repairs can be quite complex for someone unfamiliar and thus can even take quite a bit of their time.

Lack of experience and knowledge

One must be sufficiently knowledgeable before even attempting such a repair. If you lack the necessary knowledge and experience, then DIY repairs are not something for you. Even the simplest of car maintenance requires a level of understanding and knowledge. If you are not someone with a comprehensive knowledge of how the car actually functions, then it's best you leave the repairs to the professionals. 

It Could Void Your Warranty

Lastly, and more importantly, you must make sure that DIY repairs will not void your warranty. If it does, then surely it is not worth it. A warranty is crucial to your car’s lifespan, as it can ensure that you get free car parts when required as per the warranty. However, attempting a DIY repair and voiding the warranty, in turn, will cost you substantially.