Thread: DIY repairs - often better than the ones done by the pros

Interesting point, the way I look at it, I am invested in my own vehicle to make any repair as good as it can be.
While there are some great mechanics around, you don't really know who is working on your vehicle, it could be the first year apprentice.
When we do the repairs ourselves, we get to choose exactly what parts are used, we check everything as we go to make sure it's done properly, plus you know exactly whats been done.
And the one thing that's hard to quantify, the feeling of achievement when you fix your own vehicle!
It's a nice feeling!

I find this to be a double edged sword. Yes, I take more care of doing custom jobs and possibly on some standard work as well but some work is better done by professionals.

For instance, wheels, suspension, brakes etc. is often done with a rattlegun by the shop and I use handtools mostly and don't just whack on a nut "shell be alright". On the other hand, I can be fiddling with a bolt/nut/whatever that is in a tight spot forever where a professional has better tools, more insight/experience or simply more strength to undo that nut in that spot since he deals with such things everyday. I have by that time already stripped the darn thing!

But, yes, I agree that on average it is better to do your own work, more fun too!

Cheers,
-P

Thanks for your comments. I agree that there are some jobs better left to the pros and my rant was not intended to belittle those who apply their knowledge, skills and experence as they should.

However, I stand by my opinion that plain ignorance, also "near enough is not good enough" are unacceptable when they affect things like torque settings, materials selection, potential for galvanic corrosion and so on. Most mechanics, for example, have never worked on a boat where such issues are frequently critical.

Auto electrical work is another potential nightmare waiting to happen, where the wrong gauge of wire, connections prone to vibration etc are issues not always understood by the average mechanic.

The rule is actually simple: If you have the knowledge and skills. then apply apply them. If not, choose your repairer wisely.

The rule is actually simple: If you have the knowledge and skills. then apply apply them. If not, choose your repairer wisely.

Which is great until you meet the person who doesn't have the knowledge and skills to know they don't have the appropriate knowledge and skills.

Originally Posted by BradC

Which is great until you meet the person who doesn't have the knowledge and skills to know they don't have the appropriate knowledge and skills.

Dunning Kruger effect bites again....

In fairness probably everyone suffers from this at some point.