Posted on 4/28/2025
Doing your own car repairs can save money and give you a sense of accomplishment—but it’s not without risks. A single mistake under the hood can lead to costly damage or dangerous driving conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, avoiding the most common errors can keep your vehicle safe and roadworthy. Here are seven of the biggest DIY car repair mistakes and how to steer clear of them. 1. Skipping the Basics Your owner’s manual isn’t just a glovebox accessory—it’s the foundation of proper vehicle care. Many DIYers skip it entirely, relying instead on guesswork or online advice that may not apply to their specific model. Reading the manual helps you understand torque specs, recommended fluids, service intervals, and component locations. Skipping this step can lead to wrong procedures or damage that could have been easily avoided. 2. Using the Wrong Tools Using incorrect or low-qual ... read more