All great advice for non-Jalopniks. Read more

All great advice for non-Jalopniks.

Agreed. It makes way more sense just to pay someone to do it, for most people. I do it myself simply because I enjoy it. If I didn’t, I’d pay someone else to do it without hesitation, even I had the skills to do it myself. Read more

Agreed. It makes way more sense just to pay someone to do it, for most people. I do it myself simply because I enjoy…

For those who don’t want to spend money on maintenance and who don’t have any interest in doing it themselves I recommend getting an electric vehicle. They essentially require zero maintenance compared to a traditional car. Read more

For those who don’t want to spend money on maintenance and who don’t have any interest in doing it themselves I…

Great list! That's all stuff anyone can do for less than half the price of someone doing it for you.
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Great list! That's all stuff anyone can do for less than half the price of someone doing it for you.

I think replacing your vehicle’s engine air filter with a reusable one like K&N is a good, simple job that inspires confidence and a feeling of ownership. Apart from the marginal benefits of improving mpg/hp very slightly, it’s nice not to have to endure the self-doubt and haggling with yourself when you go into… Read more

I think replacing your vehicle’s engine air filter with a reusable one like K&N is a good, simple job that inspires…

Mostly true, but for 5 bucks and 1 click... I go through tires faster than most people, so no reason not to have one around. Read more

Mostly true, but for 5 bucks and 1 click... I go through tires faster than most people, so no reason not to have one…

Speak for yourself. I use a starrett depth micrometer every time I get in my car. I need to know my tread depth to the thousandth. Anything less is just sloppy work.  Read more

Speak for yourself. I use a starrett depth micrometer every time I get in my car. I need to know my tread depth to…

Don’t forget depth gauges also measure brake pads!  Read more

Don’t forget depth gauges also measure brake pads! 

You’re one of the first to not blast me with FUD, congrats! Read more

You’re one of the first to not blast me with FUD, congrats!

Skimmed through the article and a few comments, so apologies if these were mentioned: Shop towels and a big old piece of cardboard to lie down on. As careful as you are, or as effective as funnels are, you may get a little oil where it shouldn’t be, so something to wipe them up with is good to have. And the big piece… Read more

Skimmed through the article and a few comments, so apologies if these were mentioned: Shop towels and a big old…

I hope all of these replies are giving you your dopamine hit ;-) Read more

I hope all of these replies are giving you your dopamine hit ;-)

Dish washing gloves will also work in a pinch for oil changes. Read more

Dish washing gloves will also work in a pinch for oil changes.

Same with an in person estimate. They don’t take apart your car to see hidden damage. However, the in person visit can more easily see the difference between dirt and an actual scratch.
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Same with an in person estimate. They don’t take apart your car to see hidden damage. However, the in person visit…

1st Q: Mechanic shop woman (femme). Read more

1st Q: Mechanic shop woman (femme).