There are many circumstances where a little DIY know-how and effort can save a lot of money on car repairs. Some tasks that professional mechanics charge a lot for are actually very easy to do and don’t require any specialized skills, knowledge, or tools. Jump-starting a battery and replacing a battery are two car repairs that anyone can learn. Changing a car’s air filter is another easy task that can save a lot of money. Some people would add changing the oil to this list, while others would argue that an Oil Change in Fenton MI is a job better left to the professionals.
Proponents of DIY oil changes cite the following advantages:
- It’s easy to find instructions online, including videos that show exactly what you need to do.
- The supplies are easy to find at any auto supply store, and they are not expensive to purchase.
- You can be sure of the quality of oil that you buy, whereas you may not be able to trust a mechanic.*
- It can be faster to do it at home if you don’t have an oil change shop or mechanic close to your house, or if the one you would go to typically requires a long wait.
- You can enjoy a feeling of accomplishment.
However, those who argue that it’s better to get a professional oil change make the following claims:
- An oil change always makes a mess, and you can be sure of getting some oil on your driveway or grass, where it can seep into the ground and pollute the water supply.
- There are some risks associated with DIY oil changes, such as getting burned by hot oil, or being injured by the car itself if the jack malfunctions.
- If you make a mistake, such as buying the wrong type of oil or failing to attach the filter correctly, you could really damage your car.
- The cost of the oil and filter is too close to what you would pay for a professional oil change to make it worth the effort.
In the end, the decision is up to you. An oil change is doable if it’s something you would enjoy and feel proud of accomplishing. But you will not be saving a significant amount of money. If you’re looking for an Oil Change Fenton MI, check out Auto-Lab Fenton.
