Just started working on cars....

[s0me0nesmind1]

Little bit of a self-bragging thread, but also just a discussion.

For the longest time in life I always figured cars weren't my business and never touched anything with them. I was probably like a typical computer scrub that felt like if you opened the computer case or a car there are gerbils inside running on spin-wheels and making shit happen for all I knew. This past week I did a lot of self-research and did my first semi-major fix of changing out the power steering pump, replacing the serpentine belt, and flushing the fluid with it as well. All in all, it really was pretty easy so I doubt I did anything that amazing, but I still felt accomplished knowing that the dealership wanted ~$850 for the part and ~$300+ for putting it in. Their quote didn't even include flushing the fluid and replacing the serpentine belt. I spent ~$200 on the new filter and $30 on some power steering fluid and gasket replacements, and ~$30 on the serpentine belt replacement. I will say that I have had to buy a decent number of tools required for these jobs, but hopefully they are worth it overall.

I've worked my way up to this a bit, starting with things like changing the engine and A/C filter and a simple oil/filter change. Hopefully next I'll have the courage to do brake related items, I have yet to touch much else so far since my Acura is holding itself steady now for quite some time.

What say other ATOTers? Do you diagnose and do your own car work and maintenance? Or do you pay a dealership $150 to change a filter? That's ultimately what got me to switch, was dealerships wanting $200 to change the power steering fluid, and $100+ to change the A/C Filter.

Moved ftom OT.
admin allisolm

 

[Dr. Detroit]

YouTube has become a great resource for the DIY mechanic. Great tutorials, parts numbers, and tools list all there.

Search for parts from RockAuto, Amazon or your local Auto Parts store and you're ready to go!

 

[lxskllr]

I dislike car work about as much as I dislike paying someone to do work I can do myself, so it could go either way. Sometimes I do it myself, and sometimes I take it to the shop. Cars are like computers, just a bunch of shit put together that makes a working whole. Unfortunately, they're also dirty, not quite as obvious, and require more muscle to work with.

I figure I can fsck up any job, break the part, buy another one, and be even money with taking it to a shop, and a bit more knowledgeable in the end. It is satisfying when things go well, and it works.

 

[Humpy]

I've made so many poor decisions working on cars, i.e. changing the power steering pump only to later discover just the hydraulic hose was leaking and on and on, that I don't even try anymore.

Except for cleaning, the dealership does 100% of the maintenance.

 

[dave_the_nerd]

Echoing what was said above: youtube is awesome, dealership service is a ripoff, and your desire to do your own auto repair will not only ebb once you get over the initial rush, but will probably disappear entirely the first time you snap a bolt off (or strip the threads) in the engine block.

 

[rh71]

I've exhausted the 4 year BMW warranty plus the 3 year extension so I've ventured under the hood. I won't touch the engine or the brakes for fear of making a catastrophic mistake, but I have youtubed and done the spark plugs and ignition coils no problem. Fuel pump relay too. These parts by themselves are dirt cheap but along with parts markup and labor, costs are quite high. Saved hundreds there and felt pretty good about it. Also air/cabin filters are something else that they charge you a lot for, yet are so simple. There are so many electronic parts these days though, that I think that I've just about reached max capability. Even changing the AGM battery requires registration with the computer.

 

[s0me0nesmind1]

I've made so many poor decisions working on cars, i.e. changing the power steering pump only to later discover just the hydraulic hose was leaking and on and on, that I don't even try anymore.

Except for cleaning, the dealership does 100% of the maintenance.

Oh don't get me wrong, much like when I built my first computer (water cooled) I'm learning all kinds of shit in the form of paying more money. My power steering is a perfect example, I was getting a shit ton of leaking of power steering fluid - likely because I had previously flushed it with power steering fluid that wasn't meant for my vehicle. There is a reason why people will tell you to go with manufacturer parts, and in the case of power steering fluid Honda/Acura uses a high viscosity power steering fluid. So I think that's part of the reason mine was leaking, in addition to the gaskets needed replacing.

But that said, I (stupidly) was trying to tighten the bolts of the power steering hoses as tight as I could. Well, I was too fucking stupid to understand what a torque wrench is used for and the bolt snapped off right at the point where I could screw it out of my power steering pump. That's mostly why I had to replace the pump is because I couldn't get it secured because my bolt broke off and I couldn't get it out. The other stuff was just a bonus, the serpentine belt could use a replacement.

But I agree, Google is your friend - Countless youtube videos is part of what gave me the courage.

Echoing what was said above: youtube is awesome, dealership service is a ripoff, and your desire to do your own auto repair will not only ebb once you get over the initial rush, but will probably disappear entirely the first time you snap a bolt off (or strip the threads) in the engine block.

Looks like I already did that, see my post above

 

[lxskllr]

I'm terrible with overtorquing stuff. I'm so afraid of leaks and things coming loose, I get carried away with the wrench. Last time I did the brakes on my Jeep, I twisted the bleeding nipple off. Luckily I had gotten the air out, and it was the final tightening. If I ever get it going again, I guess I'll have to replace it.

 

[Paratus]

I just changed two bulbs on my car today.

One of the reverse bulbs burned out. That one took 5 minutes to pop two plastic push pins, unscrew the bulb, swap in a new one and put the pins back.

I also replaced a blown headlight bulb. Let me just say, ****GM. I had to drop the whole front grill and fascia to get acces to the headlights including going through the wheel well to get at some bolts.

Only took me 4 hours with help.

 

[Meghan54]

If you really want to get into doing your own repairs, go find a factory service manual(s) for your specific vehicle. NOT a Chilton's or Haynes, but the actual manufacturer factory service manual. Usually easily found on ebay or many times can be ordered direct from the manufacturer/printer.

They are light years better than Chilton/Haynes.....they were written by the guys who built the vehicle and, from my experience, have vastly better drawings and pictures along with a much better description of how to repair the vehicle, incl. better diagnostic trees.

That'd be my first recommendation. Then you get into tool choices. That's the fun part. Can't have too many tools.....

 

[s0me0nesmind1]

I have to admit, Youtube videos have helped a shitload.

Hate to say it, but I hope things like this mean the ultimate demise of the auto mechanic. I understand for complex tasks like replacing the engine belt, etc... but for routine maintenance like replacing filters, changing oil, etc...? screw you and your bullshit profession of screwing people for the purpose of taking advantage of people. It's gotten to the point of being absolutely pathetic.

 

[thedarkwolf]

I've done everything from simple stuff to rebuilding automatic transmissions but I'm getting lazy. My miata has been sitting in my garage for 3 years waiting for me to put the engine and trans back in it and I have a VW jetta TDI that has been sitting in my driveway waiting for me to replace the transmission shift solenoids that started sticking. Both are jobs that would cost a fortune to pay somebody to do but not huge deals to me but I can't get off my butt and finish them. I really need to fix that VW so I can sell it and get it out of my way.

 

[Fenixgoon]

i find it worth my while between the savings and the sense of accomplishment. yes, i spent a whole weekend changing out a clutch. but shit, i actually did it and have a fully functioning vehicle again.

I have to admit, Youtube videos have helped a shitload.

Hate to say it, but I hope things like this mean the ultimate demise of the auto mechanic. I understand for complex tasks like replacing the engine belt, etc... but for routine maintenance like replacing filters, changing oil, etc...? screw you and your bullshit profession of screwing people for the purpose of taking advantage of people. It's gotten to the point of being absolutely pathetic.

there will always be need for mechanics/techs, even for simple things. it's a matter of time and money. does the average person want to buy ramps or jack stands and jack, possibly get messy, and take an hour or two for an oil change (i let that shit drop forever)? probably easier to pay someone $20.

i still need to change out my coolant and brake fluid. i could easily pay a shop to do it, but i'd rather save myself the money, even if it costs me time. i just need to take the time.

 

[bruceb]

Word of advice: Sooner or later (around 75K or so) your Acura will require a new timing belt. It is an item, which if not replaced when the manual says to do, could on a lot of cars, cause major engine damage when it breaks. And on these type of engines, it is very difficult and critical to get the belt properly timed (lots of marks to line up and some special tools are required) ... So you may you to have a pro handle this job when it is time for it.

 

[RLGL]

I do all of my own work. That said you need the right tools.

 

[bruceb]

Not saying he can not do that job himself, just that is very tricky even for an experienced mechanic.

 

[dave_the_nerd]

I've exhausted the 4 year BMW warranty plus the 3 year extension so I've ventured under the hood. I won't touch the engine or the brakes for fear of making a catastrophic mistake, but I have youtubed and done the spark plugs and ignition coils no problem. Fuel pump relay too. These parts by themselves are dirt cheap but along with parts markup and labor, costs are quite high. Saved hundreds there and felt pretty good about it. Also air/cabin filters are something else that they charge you a lot for, yet are so simple. There are so many electronic parts these days though, that I think that I've just about reached max capability. Even changing the AGM battery requires registration with the computer.

Brakes are actually pretty easy to do. You might want to give it a whirl next time.

 

[s0me0nesmind1]

Word of advice: Sooner or later (around 75K or so) your Acura will require a new timing belt. It is an item, which if not replaced when the manual says to do, could on a lot of cars, cause major engine damage when it breaks. And on these type of engines, it is very difficult and critical to get the belt properly timed (lots of marks to line up and some special tools are required) ... So you may you to have a pro handle this job when it is time for it.

timing belt... that basically the engine belt? Yeah, I would definitely need someone to do that for me.

That said, my Acura is @ 115k miles - should I be expecting the belt to snap any minute or something? How much would that typically run? I ask because the car is worth ~$5-6k anyways, I don't see the point of doing any maintenance that will cost me $2k.

 

[Meghan54]

Well, as a dissimilar point of reference, it cost us $775 to have the timing belt, water pump, new coolant changed on a 2006 Lexus GX470 3 years ago....done by a Toyota dealer in Hyannis, MA.

timing belt... that basically the engine belt? Yeah, I would definitely need someone to do that for me.

That said, my Acura is @ 115k miles - should I be expecting the belt to snap any minute or something? How much would that typically run? I ask because the car is worth ~$5-6k anyways, I don't see the point of doing any maintenance that will cost me $2k.

 

[dave_the_nerd]

timing belt... that basically the engine belt? Yeah, I would definitely need someone to do that for me.

That said, my Acura is @ 115k miles - should I be expecting the belt to snap any minute or something? How much would that typically run? I ask because the car is worth ~$5-6k anyways, I don't see the point of doing any maintenance that will cost me $2k.

Will probably be a few hundred bucks. But if it snaps, it'll destroy the engine, so.... do it. Any Honda product is worth fixing for at least 200k.

Timing belts can snap with no warning and destroy stuff. That's why you replace them on a regular schedule. Timing chains tend to get loose as the links wear, and give you plenty of warning as the timing gets increasingly out spec and starts throwing codes. The chains are noisier and last longer, but are also more expensive and harder to replace. They're both commonly used. Tradeoffs.

Serpentine belts are a different story. They're outside the engine, even less expensive, are much easier to replace, and generally speaking won't destroy the engine when they snap (unless they hit something wrong/unlucky when they're unwinding or you keep trying to drive the thing w/o the water pump working and end up cooking the motor.)

 

[jlee]

Well, as a dissimilar point of reference, it cost us $775 to have the timing belt, water pump, new coolant changed on a 2006 Lexus GX470 3 years ago....done by a Toyota dealer in Hyannis, MA.

That's an excellent price for a dealer - I'd expect that quote to not include water pump/coolant.

timing belt... that basically the engine belt? Yeah, I would definitely need someone to do that for me.

That said, my Acura is @ 115k miles - should I be expecting the belt to snap any minute or something? How much would that typically run? I ask because the car is worth ~$5-6k anyways, I don't see the point of doing any maintenance that will cost me $2k.

I don't understand this logic. Do you want a reliable car or not?

 

[s0me0nesmind1]

Will probably be a few hundred bucks. But if it snaps, it'll destroy the engine, so.... do it. Any Honda product is worth fixing for at least 200k.

Timing belts can snap with no warning and destroy stuff. That's why you replace them on a regular schedule. Timing chains tend to get loose as the links wear, and give you plenty of warning as the timing gets increasingly out spec and starts throwing codes. The chains are noisier and last longer, but are also more expensive and harder to replace. They're both commonly used. Tradeoffs.

Serpentine belts are a different story. They're outside the engine, even less expensive, are much easier to replace, and generally speaking won't destroy the engine when they snap (unless they hit something wrong/unlucky when they're unwinding or you keep trying to drive the thing w/o the water pump working and end up cooking the motor.)

Interesting. Is there any way for me to get a general glimpse or indication of if the timing belt actually needs to get replaced within a certain time frame? Sorry, but going by maintenance books is bullshit, they were made for the specific reason to make money. I've seen plenty of people that have driven 300k miles without needing a replacement timing belt. Thats not to say they aren't on the brink of it snapping or anything, but the point being that declaring it's time to replace just because an odometer hit 100k isn't necessarily a valid argument.

I don't understand this logic. Do you want a reliable car or not?

If you have trouble understanding then you don't understand the logic of an investment. Let me make it more obvious - would you do a $3,000 repair on a car that is worth $2,000? I would hope not, since it makes no sense. You're piling on costs of maintenance for something that is worth less than simply getting a new vehicle. So in the case of this timing belt, if I were to replace the belt my car would be worth ~$5,000.. If i were to not replace the timing belt, guess what it would still be worth? $5,000. It simply boils down to return on investment, and as your car gets older and older maintenance costs will be more and more expensive, while you value of your vehicle continues to decline.

 

[jlee]

If you have trouble understanding then you don't understand the logic of an investment. Let me make it more obvious - would you do a $3,000 repair on a car that is worth $2,000? I would hope not, since it makes no sense. You're piling on costs of maintenance for something that is worth less than simply getting a new vehicle. So in the case of this timing belt, if I were to replace the belt my car would be worth ~$5,000.. If i were to not replace the timing belt, guess what it would still be worth? $5,000. It simply boils down to return on investment, and as your car gets older and older maintenance costs will be more and more expensive, while you value of your vehicle continues to decline.

Cars are generally not investments. Would you spend $500 on tires if your car was only worth $500? Or would you throw it away and buy another $500 car that will need $500 in tires in 6 months?

You are forgetting that $5,000 cars do not generally come with all of their maintenance up to date. Sure, drive your $5k car into the ground because you're too cheap to do proper maintenance - then buy another $5k car and drive that into the ground, too.

Or, you know, take care of it and enjoy many more years of service.

If you're worried about return on investment, go here.

 

[repoman0]

If you have trouble understanding then you don't understand the logic of an investment. Let me make it more obvious - would you do a $3,000 repair on a car that is worth $2,000? I would hope not, since it makes no sense. You're piling on costs of maintenance for something that is worth less than simply getting a new vehicle. So in the case of this timing belt, if I were to replace the belt my car would be worth ~$5,000.. If i were to not replace the timing belt, guess what it would still be worth? $5,000. It simply boils down to return on investment, and as your car gets older and older maintenance costs will be more and more expensive, while you value of your vehicle continues to decline.

Great idea! Once the value of your car hits a certain threshold, stop maintaining it. Then when your timing belt snaps and destroys your engine, tow it and be on the hook for either a new engine or a new car, ASAP. Oh and you can also only replace the car with another cheap POS, which is probably going to need the same maintenance anyway, or you have lost the money you were trying to save by buying a newer expensive vehicle.

You must value your time at zero for this to be an acceptable possibility.

Re thread, yes I do all my own work ...

 

[repoman0]

Cars are generally not investments. Would you spend $500 on tires if your car was only worth $500? Or would you throw it away and buy another $500 car that will need $500 in tires in 6 months?

You are forgetting that $5,000 cars do not generally come with all of their maintenance up to date. Sure, drive your $5k car into the ground because you're too cheap to do proper maintenance - then buy another $5k car and drive that into the ground, too.

Or, you know, take care of it and enjoy many more years of service.

If you're worried about return on investment, go here.

Also, this. Cars are for fun, reliable transportation, or some combination of the two. They are not investments.