I am sure that a lot of owners out there could easily afford to have their cars serviced at the dealer. But after several shady and scary experiences, i have been doing all the servicing I possibly can, even though I am losing money on the time. I enjoy the work, feel a sense of pride and satisfaction, and in all honesty, trust my own work more so than 99% of the mechanics I have encountered.
Does anyone else share my philosophy, or should I just take it in to the dealer, and quit worrying about it.

 

I have been doing this for years. Unless there is need for warranty work, I do not let any dealer mess with my car. I do all required maintenance plus some stuff that the manual doesn't mention. I keep records of all the work I do - date, mileage, what done. I keep all receipts for oil, filters and any and all parts and supplies I buy. I'm fed up with past experiences where I'd get the car back and not only NOT have the needed work done properly but having something else that was removed and put back incorrectly. If I have to check their work and fix what they did wrong, I may as well do it myself in the first place. I also have had my cars taken for joy rides by the "lot guy". NEVER AGAIN! What tools I may lack, my friends (who are licenced mechanics) will have and we do the work together.

 

im a DSM guy. if we could afford to pay mechanics to fix all the stuff that breaks on our cars, we would be able to buy MUCH nicer cars

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by xviper
[B]I have been doing this for years.

 

Actually, Canadian Tire runs a similar program. Thanks for the heads up just the same. So far, I haven't needed their service but it's nice to know I could use it.

 

When I can I do the work.

 

Basic stuff I do myself. However if the part that I'm installing could result in my death if I install it wrong, I usually leave it to the professionals.

 

I do most of the work myself too. The only part where I don't is when I want someone else to be liable for the installation like an alarm (although I had to redo some of the work done ), installing a spoiler (I want a no rust guarantee), or for things that need replacement that can be covered under warranty so I don't eat any costs. When someone else works on my car, I always double check what they've done and I'm very particular about that.

 

I do everything but mounting/balancing tires and wheel alignments. Those require expensive specialty equipment.

Should the need arise, I wouldn't do bodywork/paint either, but should the need arise that would probably be paid by insurance anyway.

I do it because:

1. I like being an auto enthusiast, rather than someone who just signs checks.
2. I know the work is done right.
3. And, since the money I'd pay for labor at a shop is from after-tax dollars, I probably break even financially. I can change the oil in all 3 cars for about the same inconvenience as dropping them off and picking them up at a shop.