I'm mostly DIY - however sometimes you have to really start thinking about how you value your time. When I do it myself I'm not too concerned about breaking anything because an oil change is very basic.

-= joe =-

 

DIY... I'd rather have the peace of mind knowing that it was done right.

 

To help with piece of mind about your warranty, do three things: 1) Start a logbook and save every receipt for parts that you purchase for your car. With a logbook that includes procedures (include proper torque with a torque wrench), parts descriptions, and mileage, you can demonstrate and support your competence at your dealer and in court if necessary to defend future warranty claims. 2) The receipts go right along with this as further proof that you installed the correct parts and fluids. 3) Make sure you sign up for the owner

 

Chances are if it's a new car, there's going to be small things that you'll have to go back to the dealer for; soft top noises, alignment within the first year, etc... It's wise to foster a good relationship with the dealership, even if it's just a couple of oil changes. When you have a good relationship with the dealership (beyond the initial purchase of the car), if something major happens to your car, you'll have a friend or your side.

I like to do a lot of DIY, but I'd rather the dealer screw something up than me. Keep all reciepts, and write down the mileage on the reciept so you know when it was applied. I think this is easier than keeping a log book.

 

You can dump your oil at AutoZone or Advanced Auto. They both have an oil
drum in the back of the store for dumping and recyceling oil. I use it all the time.

 

Or leave it in front of the store after hours with a receipt...

 

Check with your city, they may have a recylcling program. My hometown of Vacaville, CA actually pays you to bring in old oil. It isn't much and I refuse it, but I think it is a good idea.

 

[QUOTE=OU812,Oct 6 2004, 12:12 PM]You can dump your oil at AutoZone or Advanced Auto.