So you’ve been thinking of learning to do your own car repairs for quite some time now, and can’t figure out whether it would be worth the time and effort? Would it benefit you in any way, or would it be just a waste of your precious time? After all, you could simply leave your car to the pros and chill at home instead, so why bother?
Well, there’s a lot more to acquiring car repairing skills than what meets the eye. Indeed, this article will discuss how learning auto mechanics and using a trusted car service manual (click here) could be immensely beneficial in the long term.
So without further ado, let’s dive in and see some of the main reasons why we think you should definitely consider getting your hands greasy.
Keep Repair Costs Low
It’s no secret that repair expenses form a sizable chunk of your vehicle’s annual operating costs. So, of course, learning to perform some preventive maintenance would help you keep repair bills under control. Start with basic and simple jobs such as engine oil change or brake pad replacement. Unlike major overhauls, these don’t take much expertise, and you can easily accomplish them by following the instructions found in a service manual software. This way, you’ll be able to cut labor costs imposed by repair shops, at least to some extent.
Moreover, regular maintenance can help avoid bigger problems in the long run. If your vehicle is old and out of the warranty period, preventive maintenance can keep your vehicle’s components in good condition for longer. That’s also why automakers recommend a specific service schedule for your car.
For example, not replacing the transmission fluid when required will eventually lead to delayed shifts, slippage, and premature wear and tear. And, of course, repairing a damaged transmission costs way more than just replacing the transmission fluid at the recommended intervals.
Knowledge Is Never Wasted
Repairing your car is just like any other skill, but one that you will end up using quite often. In the 21st century, cars are a vital part of our life, and they must function properly. So why not learn something that will prove useful for the rest of your life?
And contrary to what most people think, getting a grip over auto mechanics is not that hard. All you need is the proper guidance, a bit of studying, and practice. Luckily, your car service and repair manual will easily take care of the learning part (not sure where to find one for your car? It comes with plenty of detailed step-by-step instructions that will help you troubleshoot problems and replace faulty components. Moreover, every procedure is paired with flowcharts, diagrams, and exploded-view illustrations, so you won’t have any trouble figuring out what is what and what goes where.
Still, it does take time to get used to the technical terms and nomenclature used in the manual, which amateur DIYers may find troublesome at first. Hence, we highly recommend starting with a “For Dummies” book that will teach you about the very basic notions of car repairs that more professionally-oriented repair manuals often overlook.
In the end, learning how various components of your car work and how you can fix them can prove to be quite valuable in tricky situations. The last thing you want is to be left stranded in the middle of nowhere, with no help in sight and no idea how to even attempt to do something about it.
You Could Make a Career Out of It
If you are just starting your professional life, learning auto mechanics can also help you get a job. Auto mechanics is one of the most in-demand trades nowadays. Each year, thousands of students transition into mechanics, forming the backbone of the automotive industry. However, this doesn’t mean you have to stick to being a mechanic for the rest of your life.
You could also become a seasoned blogger like me. During my initial years as a mechanic, I would get back home, keep studying and try to gain as much knowledge as I could. Of course, I also always had service and repair manuals for my different cars (mechanics rarely have just one), supplying all the essential information required to become a better mechanic — and even if you think you know your way around cars quite well already, there’s always more to learn.
Eventually, I started being active in forums and online communities, using my knowledge to help others online, which eventually led to blogging. Within a few years, I was earning enough I was able to quit my previous job at a Ford dealership.
Today, with more than 15 years of experience as a mechanic and my still-budding entrepreneurship skills, I sometimes trace back to my humble beginnings, when I started with nothing but a car service manual and the eagerness to learn.
Last Words
So, is learning car repair worth it? Definitely yes! Not only will it make you more knowledgeable about your vehicle, but it will also keep repair costs in check. No to mention that you could also eventually help your mom with her old clunker and put a smile on her face. And as you gain more expertise, you will also start to be able to differentiate vehicle noises and detect which might be a cause for concern and which is nothing but a piece of plastic fender rubbing on a tire.
Put simply, if you’re still on the fence about learning auto mechanics, let me tell you this: learning a new skill never goes to waste — it’s as simple as that.
