Can I Service My Car?

For most drivers, knowing at least one good mechanic or BMW service shop is essential. Auto repair shops can handle repairs that are too complex for the shade-tree mechanic, but some people prefer to do the heavy lifting themselves. For those with a high degree of mechanical knowledge, DIY auto repair is easy. For those without, the benefits have to be weighed against the risks. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to repair your own car.

Cost: In most cases, you can save quite a bit of money by taking care of simpler repairs yourself. When you take your car to a shop, the biggest portion of the repair bill is the labor cost. At-home repairs may take longer, which means that it will only save you money in the longer term- and if you?ve never fixed your car before, you?ll need to invest in some supplies and tools first.

Time:If you handle your own automotive repairs, it can take a large portion of your time. Taking your car to a repair shop means that you can spend more of your time doing other things; if you have a busy work schedule or family commitments, hiring a mechanic may be the only viable option.

Satisfaction: Many drivers get a degree of self-satisfaction from doing their own auto repairs. Fixing it yourself can help you become more familiar with your car, and it can be a fun weekend or family bonding project. For true car enthusiasts, enjoyment is one of the main reasons behind the decision to do DIY car repair.

Greater Reliability:When you have a shop repair your car, you do so with a certain degree of reassurance that the job will be done correctly. If for some reason the repair fails, you can return to the shop and ask them to fix the problem. Most areas have strict requirements for auto shops that state they must correct any issues that arise from faulty repairs. Doing the repair work yourself may save you money, but if it goes wrong, you have no legal recourse.

Assumption of Liability:If improper repairs result in unsafe conditions that lead to an auto accident, a repair shop can be held totally liable for the damages to both vehicles. If you choose to do your own repairs, you also assume all liability for damages. Today?s modern cars have electronic engine control systems that are very difficult to repair on your own; any mistake there could lead to engine failure (which could be dangerous on a busy road). If at any time you doubt your ability to finish the job correctly and safely, you should call in a professional.

If you are confident in your abilities and you have the tools and knowledge to do the job correctly, repairing your own car can save you money and give you a great deal of personal satisfaction. You should also be aware of the risks involved; hopefully, this article has given you some of the information you need in order to make an informed decision.

This article was written by Crispin Jones on behalf of Main Dealer Discount, BMW service experts. Click this link to visit their site and see how they could save you money on your next BMW service.

Source: http://carcarecoach.net/2012/08/can-i-service-my-car/

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