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Self servicing your own car

  • 16-02-2012 12:57am
    #1
    NIMAN
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 34,685 ✭✭✭✭


    I am a bit useless when it comes to cars. First to admit it.

    But I would have a go. Watched a few simple servicing jobs such as spark plugs, filters etc being changed and was wondering if most normal people should be able to try their hand at doing their own car servicing?

    My car is 11yrs old, and having a stamped service history is irrelevant to me now, so honestly, how hard is it? What are the potential pitfalls? Perhaps getting under car to change/drain engine oil may be the problem?

    Edit: oops, just seen their is a subforum that deals with this. Mods, please move if possible.


Comments

  • #2
    bfocusd
    Closed Accounts Posts: 723 ✭✭✭bfocusd


    Getting an oil filter off can be funny to watch, my mate went at it with every irrelevant tool, hammers, screw drivers vice grips..

    I personally leave it to the professionals, but im sure there is a fabric strap type thing to remove the filter? He wouldn't listen and tried to beat it into opening.

    Maybe get a car manual for servicing, I seen something in Easons, car specific maintenance instructions


  • #3
    Voodoomelon
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,661 ✭✭✭Voodoomelon


    Your basic service that most garages offer for €120-€150 odd is very easily done yourself.

    Usually all that includes is your recommended oil, oil filter, air filter, possibly cabin filters and some brief checks of suspension/brakes/bulbs/fluid levels/leaks. You will pay more to have plugs/brake/suspension components repaired or replaced.

    You will need a basic set of tools for the above jobs, including a small ratchet set, screwdrivers, gloves, jack stands and a jack.

    NEVER, EVER get under a car with just the cars standard jack, that is rule no.1. Haynes manuals will also help you on your way. :)

    The main thing you have to plan for when attempting a job for the first time, is something not going to plan, like not having the right tool, or being left stranded if you can't start your car.


  • #4
    Senna
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,800 ✭✭✭Senna


    Plugs/ filters are easy and when you have done it once, you could do it next time with your eyes closed;) Haynes manuals and the right tools is all thats needed.
    Just dont forget all the other things that would be checked by a mechanic when you leave it in for a service, pad, disks, visual check of other important stuff.


  • #5
    Buffman
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,875 ✭✭✭Buffman


    NIMAN wrote: »
    Edit: oops, just seen their is a subforum that deals with this. Mods, please move if possible.

    Ye, there's also a good sticky thread in that forum that should help you.

    FYI, if you move to a 'smart' meter electricity plan, you CAN'T move back to a non-smart plan.

    You don't have to take a 'smart' meter if you don't want one, opt-out is available.

    Buy drinks in 3L or bigger plastic bottles or glass bottles or cartons to avoid the DRS fee.



  • #6
    Pulsating Star
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 702 ✭✭✭Pulsating Star


    I am no great shakes at spannering but also trying to givie it a go. I found you-tube demo vids very useful. Have a read of the owners websites for that make for any "how to" threads. Most important to find out if there is any special watch outs,for example I have a car where even slight over tightening of the spark plugs cracks the head and it's toast.


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  • #7
    maxfresh
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 688 ✭✭✭maxfresh


    Pulsating Star wrote: »
    I am no great shakes at spannering but also trying to givie it a go. I found you-tube demo vids very useful. Have a read of the owners websites for that make for any "how to" threads. Most important to find out if there is any special watch outs,for example I have a car where even slight over tightening of the spark plugs cracks the head and it's toast.

    Ye maybe having a torque wrench could be a good idea


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