how music can help your dog

DIY Maintenance Projects Beginners Should Avoid

9 December 2015 by Samu Koskela

With easy access to information online through video examples, blog posts and "how to" websites, anyone can try their hand at DIY projects to complete at-home car care maintenance. While something simple like changing your oil may be easy enough to execute on your own, other projects should be left to the professionals. Whether it is due to a lack of knowledge or the fact that the average car owner doesn't have the right tools to get the job done, there are some DIY tutorials that you should avoid when caring for your vehicle.

Top 3 DIY Car Care Don'ts

Car Stereo Installation

Whether you got a new car stereo as a holiday gift or have simply been saving up for the right sound system, this is one project that should be taken care of by a professional technician. Modern vehicles often house a complex system of wiring and audio components that can easily be damaged or missed completely, by the untrained eye. Most of the time car stereo installation requires special tools to place the stereo unit in the dash, as well as electrical and wiring knowledge to ensure you get the sound quality you paid for. Professionals (like those at Sun Valley Stereo) also have better access to product update information and technician support directly from the manufacturer to help get the job done right. 

Changing Spark Plugs

Most vehicles need regular tune-ups to keep them performing at their best and unless you have experience working with the special tools required to remove and replace old spark plugs, you're better off making an appointment with your local mechanic. Damaged or worn out spark plugs can cause a number of issues with your engine including misfires, increased emissions and lower fuel economy. Additionally, experts recommend replacing spark plugs and wires at the same time, which means more work and stress for DIY beginners. 

Fixing Brakes

The brake mechanism on most vehicles is very complex and in many cases, without any prior mechanical knowledge, it may be hard to diagnose and completely fix the issue. Changing out brakes and brake pads also requires specific tools that most DIY beginners don't have at their disposal. And although they can often be rented out from your local auto parts store, rentals can be costly. Because this is such a high stakes repair, fixing the brakes is definitely something that should be completed by a knowledgeable and experienced brake technician. 

Share

Search