By DCB Editorial, August 25, 2025
While attempting a DIY approach can theoretically help you save hundreds on car repairs, some tasks simply must be left to the experts.
Photo by Kate Ibragimova on Unsplash
There are many reasons for this.
Your safety (and the safety of others) is on the line if you’re behind the wheel of a poorly maintained or poorly repaired vehicle.
You could be causing more extensive, costly damage in the process of trying to resolve the issue.
Your vehicle needs to meet certain standards to be deemed roadworthy, meaning that quick fixes are rarely the solution you need.
Vehicle repairs require expert skill and high-quality equipment, meaning you could be putting your safety at risk by trying to handle it independently. For example, each year, “4,822 people are rushed to emergency rooms with injuries from car jack malfunctions.
While some tasks are relatively quick fixes, such as replacing a faulty tyre, others must always be left to the experts who know what they are doing. With that in mind, here are __ car repairs you should never try to conduct yourself!
Brake system repairs. There are many reasons why you may be experiencing issues with your brakes, from worn-out pads and rotors to fluid leaks. However, as they are such a crucial safety feature within your vehicle, it is best to let the experts get to the bottom of this issue and replace or repair them on your behalf.
Tyre replacement. In cases where tyres need replacing, you should also make sure that you are seeking out specialist help. While installing a temporary tyre is a useful skill, they are not a long-term fix, and the majority of car owners don’t have the tools to hand to properly balance and mount their tyres moving forward.
Engine issues. For obvious issues, engine issues within your vehicle should be repaired as promptly as possible. When repairs and maintenance experts are handed this task, they have the necessary diagnostic tools to get to the bottom of the problem as quickly as possible, whether that’s a cooling system failure or issues with the timing belt itself. They can then carry out the necessary repairs as quickly as possible.
Final thoughts. While being able to carry out some basic repairs is useful, you need to know your limits. This is because you simply cannot put a price on your safety, and no amount of money saved is worth getting into an accident.
As such, you should make sure that you take prompt action whenever you notice any issues with your car. Not only does this mean that you will be back on the road again in no time at all, but it can also help to lower the cost of repairs. This is because the mechanics will be facing minor issues as opposed to major ones, which are less complex and therefore less expensive to fix.
You can also make sure that you are saving money by ensuring that you find a local mechanic that you can trust!