Should you or shouldn't you attempt car repairs yourself?

This is a question we get asked numerous times every day, do you think I'd be able to do a an oil change? do you think I'd be able to change the air filter? The only true answer is that it depends on your car and how knowledgeable you are on mechanics.

The problem with todays vehicles is that they have more to do with electronics faults that mechanical in some instances. There has been stories of individuals (even trained mechanics) changing little parts such as light bulbs and causing a short circuit which sets off the air bag. To replace an airbag can cost more than £600, so it's an expensive lesson in some cases.

It is of course very true that it used to be easier to change parts on older models of cars, this is usually because there was more room and hand space in an around places like the engine bay. Today's engine bays are packed with ancillary systems such as air conditioning units and often you aren't even able to view the oil filter, never mind change it.

If you are going to attempt your own repairs, we have laid down a few simple tips to help you on your way.

1) Diagnosis, are you sure you know what the problem is, or is it just a normal service that you are attempting? If you are not able to diagnose the car problem then you may want to visit one of the owner clubs that deals with your type of vehicle. Somewhere on the net just about every car from the most boring of family saloons to high powered sports vehicles has an owners club forum.

Ask one of the owners of they are aware what could be causing your symptoms, most car problems are common faults on that vehicle spec and people on that forum should be able to pin point it for you free of charge. The alternative is to take the vehicle to a garage and have them charge you a fee for diagnosis.

2) Buying Car Parts, when buying you car parts you need to know exactly what extras you are going to need. If it's an oil change you need to know what type of oil it is that you need. A common mistake people make when buying oil is that they think that more expensive is better, it isn't. The thinner oils such as 5/40 have been engineered to a high tolerance and usually more expensive. However thin oil is able to find gaps in older cars parts and work it's way into the combustion chamber, causing the car to smoke and perform poorly. These cars were designed for thicker oil and in these cases cheaper is better.

3) Before you start repairs take a photo of the area you are working on. If things don't work out you can always refer back to how the original part fitted.

4) Have a back up plane if things go wrong, you need to know what you are going to use for transport if repairs don't work out. This can include alternative repairs and transport of both you and the vehicle to a repairer.