Resource for doing Car DIY Repairs

One thing that often keeps car DIY hopefuls behind bars is the fear that they may break something. When you research a repair well enough, it’s highly unlikely to go wrong all things being equal. We would look at 6 key resources to consult when planning that car repair you know nothing about. I’ve been doing car DIY repairs for some years now and I’m yet to break anything. I haven’t had to stop a repair midway and call a mechanic to finish up. The key is prepare  well! Read around the repair you want to undertake. Have the right tools and only take on repairs you are confident about. Talking of having the right tools, you may want to read this post; Buying your first set of tools for car DIY especially if you are new to DIY repairs. The following are powerful resources that would help ensure you ace that planned DIY fix:

1. Google.com: As you may have heard severally “Google is your friend” I need not say more. It’s quite likely that several people across the internet would have faced and carried out the repair you are planning. Some would have even made detailed procedures in the process and posted online. Again, just doing an internet search  around the signs your car’s having may well point you in the right direction to fixing your ride. Best of all Google is free.

2. Car Owners Manual: This would usually describe a few simple tasks in line with your vehicle’s maintenance schedule. E.g. the owners manual for the 2003 -2007 Accord lists steps for draining & replacing coolant, changing spark plugs, changing a tire e.t.c. If you bought a used car and do not have an owners manual, use step one to find a free download on the internet 🙂

3. Repair Manuals: Examples are Haynes and Chilton repair manuals. These have depth with pictures and descriptions. You will need this as you progress in repairs. If you own a 2003-2007 Accord you can get yours here from Amazon.

4. Youtube: Very highly recommended as you would usually find videos on your planned repair and nothing makes you more confident than a really good Youtube video.  Watch again and again.

5. Service Repair Manuals: These are the OEM repair manuals made by the car manufacturer itself. It will usually contain all the advanced stuff but comes at a price. You may be able to find a free copy on the web though 😉

6. Online forums: e.g. bimmerforums.com, driveaccord.net, toyotanation.com e.t.c. Several of these sites will have members posting DIY repair procedures.

Finally, whatever resource you lay your hands on, study till you feel confident to undertake the task. You can even view multiple accounts from different sources. Ensure you have the right tools and don’t be in a hurry!