DIY or Don’t: What to Repair on Your Car and What to Leave to the Pros
April 22, 2025
6 min read
There’s a certain thrill in rolling up your sleeves and tackling car repairs on your own. Whether it’s the satisfaction of saving money or the pride that comes with learning a new skill, DIY car repairs can be incredibly empowering. But, for all the good intentions, there are times when it’s smarter and safer to leave the wrench in the garage and call a professional. Knowing the difference between what you can safely repair on your car and what’s best left to the experts can save you time, frustration, and potentially thousands of dollars.
This guide will walk you through common car repairs, breaking down which ones are DIY-friendly and which are firmly in pro territory. You’ll feel confident the next time your car needs attention, knowing when it’s okay to get your hands a little greasy.
Why DIY Car Repair Is Tempting—and When It Can Backfire
Car repairs are expensive. ConsumerAffairs estimates that yearly car maintenance and repair costs add up to about $900, with actual expenses varying by vehicle type and the nature of the problem. And that’s before any “surprise” parts or labor add-ons. DIY looks good when you’re staring down a three-digit invoice for something that seems simple—like replacing a headlight or swapping out brake pads.
But here’s the catch: cars today aren’t what they were 20 years ago. While some fixes are still straightforward, others are woven into complex onboard computer systems, sensitive sensors, and tightly packed engine compartments that weren’t built with your home garage in mind.
Doing your own repairs can save you serious money if you know your limits. Cross that line, and you may end up paying more to
The “Yes, You Can DIY This” List
Let’s start with the good news: there’s a solid list of car repairs and maintenance tasks that are totally DIY-friendly, even for folks with limited mechanical knowledge. You don’t need to be a grease-stained garage wizard. Just a little patience, the right tools, and a willingness to learn can take you far.
1. Oil Changes
This is the gateway repair for many DIYers—and with good reason. Changing your oil is relatively easy once you know your car’s oil type, how to safely lift your vehicle, and how to dispose of used oil properly.
- You’ll need an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, fresh oil, a new filter, and a socket wrench.
Why it’s safe to DIY: You’re not messing with electronics, pressurized systems, or anything life-threatening. Just be careful not to over-tighten the filter or drain plug.
2. Air Filters (Engine and Cabin)
Swapping out an engine air filter or cabin air filter typically takes less than 10 minutes, no tools required.
Why it’s safe to DIY: It’s literally unplug-and-replace. No fuel lines, no wiring, no risks.
3. Battery Replacement
Replacing a car battery isn’t rocket science—but it does require care, especially with today’s electronics.
- Pro tip: Always disconnect the negative terminal first.
- Avoid: Touching both terminals with metal tools (shocking, right?).
Why it’s safe to DIY (mostly): As long as your vehicle doesn’t need reprogramming or electronic resets afterward (some modern cars do), this is a manageable fix. Check your manual or look it up before you disconnect anything.
4. Brake Pads (Front and Rear)
Yes, you can do your own brake pads—but this is the kind of job where attention to detail is absolutely essential. If done wrong, brakes can fail—so don’t cut corners.
- Tools you’ll need: Jack stands, lug wrench, C-clamp, socket set.
- YouTube is your friend here—but so is caution.
Why it’s doable: With the right instructions and a calm workspace, this is within reach for intermediate DIYers. If you’re not confident, skip it.
5. Spark Plugs
This one surprises people, but spark plugs are often easy to access and require only basic tools. You’ll want to be precise with torque, though—over-tightening can lead to broken plugs or damaged threads.
Good for DIYers with patience: Make sure to replace plugs one at a time so you don’t mix up wiring.
“Maybe Leave This to the Pros” (And Why)
Some repairs may seem simple on the surface but can go sideways quickly. These are the kinds of tasks where, unless you have training or specialized tools, the risk-reward ratio just doesn’t pan out.
1. Transmission Repairs or Fluid Changes
You’d think changing transmission fluid would be like an oil change—but no. Many newer transmissions are sealed systems, and even on those that aren’t, over- or under-filling can cause real damage.
If you’re not experienced, this is one system where DIY could cost you thousands in future repairs.
2. Suspension Work
Struts, control arms, ball joints—these are things that absolutely need to be done right, with the right tools. The tolerances are tight, and improperly installed suspension parts can affect steering and safety.
3. Check Engine Light Diagnostics
While OBD-II scanners are widely available, diagnosing what’s actually wrong is harder than it sounds. One code can have five possible causes.
Use your code reader to get a general idea, then decide if it’s within your wheelhouse. Otherwise, hand it over to a trusted mechanic.
4. Modern Electrical System Issues
Gone are the days of simple fuses and relays. Today’s vehicles run on complex electrical networks, and even installing the wrong bulb can throw off a sensor or onboard computer.
You could trigger expensive faults or disable safety features. Not worth it unless you know your stuff.
How to Know If a Repair Is Within Your Skill Set
Even if you’ve never touched a socket wrench before, there’s a litmus test to help you decide whether a repair is DIY-friendly:
- Time Estimate: If it takes more than 2 hours and you're not experienced, think twice.
- Tool Check: If the repair calls for special tools you don’t own or can’t borrow, skip it.
- Safety Question: Ask yourself: If I mess this up, could it compromise my safety or someone else’s? If yes, that’s your cue to stop.
- Confidence Level: If your gut says “I’m not sure,” trust it. There’s no shame in asking for help.
Remember: knowing your limits isn’t a weakness—it’s wisdom.
Cost vs. Risk
Undertaking car repairs yourself can save you hundreds, even thousands, of dollars over time. But there’s another side to the equation that isn’t always considered. A mistake on a brake line replacement or a slip while installing a timing belt could cost far more in repairs or even endanger your safety. Ask yourself: Is the cost savings worth the potential risk?
When budgeting for repairs, it’s wise to do some research. Know the typical cost of the part and labor, and compare that with what it would cost you to do it yourself. Don’t forget to include the value of your time, especially if it’s your first attempt at the repair.
According to AutoLeap, the average repair shop labor rate ranges between $75 and $130 per hour.
So, Should You DIY or Don’t?
Fixing your car can be as satisfying as it is cost-effective, but knowing your limits is crucial. By starting with basic maintenance tasks and leaving high-stakes repairs to professionals, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. For those who are eager to learn, there’s an endless trove of tutorials and guides available to help you gain confidence, but always remember that safety comes first.
This blend of DIY determination and professional backup won’t just keep your car in great shape; it’ll also save you a lot of headaches along the way.
