Servicing your own car vs garage
Discussion
I can't get over the moeny people are prepared to pay not to have to raise a finger.
My wifes quashqi inside door handle bust. The local main dealer garage wanted £75 for the handle £130 for fitting, the final bil was going to be £220 something.
ebay supplied a brand new handle for £17 free postage, and from walking toward the car with the new handle to walking away from the car I was timed at 7 minutes by my wife.
What idiot pays +£200 squid for seven minutes work?
My wifes quashqi inside door handle bust. The local main dealer garage wanted £75 for the handle £130 for fitting, the final bil was going to be £220 something.
ebay supplied a brand new handle for £17 free postage, and from walking toward the car with the new handle to walking away from the car I was timed at 7 minutes by my wife.
What idiot pays +£200 squid for seven minutes work?
At the start some jobs were a pita. I then took the approach of buying the right tool for the job and that made my life much easier. I no doubt spent quite a bit on tools in the early days, but now I very rarely need something I haven't already got.
If I do come up against something I need some more tools for, I don't hesitate. I learned that the hard way though!
If I do come up against something I need some more tools for, I don't hesitate. I learned that the hard way though!
julian64 said:
I can't get over the moeny people are prepared to pay not to have to raise a finger.
My wifes quashqi inside door handle bust. The local main dealer garage wanted £75 for the handle £130 for fitting, the final bil was going to be £220 something.
ebay supplied a brand new handle for £17 free postage, and from walking toward the car with the new handle to walking away from the car I was timed at 7 minutes by my wife.
What idiot pays +£200 squid for seven minutes work?
I offered to do the same job on my FIL's Quashqai. Only problem was it was in Cyprus and the 10 minute job turned into 2 hours because of the 40 degree heat. I was sweating before I'd opened the socket set!My wifes quashqi inside door handle bust. The local main dealer garage wanted £75 for the handle £130 for fitting, the final bil was going to be £220 something.
ebay supplied a brand new handle for £17 free postage, and from walking toward the car with the new handle to walking away from the car I was timed at 7 minutes by my wife.
What idiot pays +£200 squid for seven minutes work?
I changed the Rear Discs & Pads & Front Pads & whilst at it did a tyre rotation on my Mk3 MX5 on Saturday. Took no more than an hour and a half and are absolutely fine.
Changing discs and pads can be done on a car of any age without having to lose the stamp in the book. No point in getting a dealer to do them during the annual service as the cost is huge - see below
Mazda - £450
Myself - £99.10 (Parts from Eurocar parts) & 1.5hrs of work with a couple of beers in the lovely Saturday afternoon Sun
Jobs a good'n
Changing discs and pads can be done on a car of any age without having to lose the stamp in the book. No point in getting a dealer to do them during the annual service as the cost is huge - see below
Mazda - £450
Myself - £99.10 (Parts from Eurocar parts) & 1.5hrs of work with a couple of beers in the lovely Saturday afternoon Sun
Jobs a good'n
sanguinary said:
I offered to do the same job on my FIL's Quashqai. Only problem was it was in Cyprus and the 10 minute job turned into 2 hours because of the 40 degree heat. I was sweating before I'd opened the socket set!
Huhhandle trim comes off using a fingernail. Two bolts and the whole handle comes off the door. Just pull the door card and it falls off on poppers. Then the pull handle secures with a single bolt?
The three bolts are phillips.
I think the socket set was slowing you up there! I wouldn't have know what to do with the socket set.
There are a number of different conversations taking place here I think:
-Actually servicing your car: you or a garage
-If the latter, stealer or indy
-Fixing mechanical sh*t that has broken/needs replacing outside of the standard service schedule
-Fixing cosmetic sh*t that needs replacing - eg the door handle.
I think we'd all be comfortable doing basics (eg I fitting an electric aerial to my last car, often topped up the oil and was at times seen putting my own petrol in
-Actually servicing your car: you or a garage
-If the latter, stealer or indy
-Fixing mechanical sh*t that has broken/needs replacing outside of the standard service schedule
-Fixing cosmetic sh*t that needs replacing - eg the door handle.
I think we'd all be comfortable doing basics (eg I fitting an electric aerial to my last car, often topped up the oil and was at times seen putting my own petrol in
I think some people actually enjoy taking their car to be fixed, gives them something to talk (bore) about later on.
Some people see it as a status symbol that they have a 'pet' mechanic or specialist.
Someone I know has a nice car, but never cleans it etc and front arches are going rusty now (German car from 1997) so basically neglects the car, but takes it to a marque 'specialist' and pays a fortune to have it "looked after".
The general gist seems to be he likes going to see 'his' mechanic and worships every word he says, not questioning his 'expertise' about anything. The other problem I find with my friend's logic is he seems to see these visits as an 'investment', but fails to see the cost of his investment, i.e he bought a semi-classic German car which will only go up in value, depute being rusty and neglected, and several thousands a year visiting a specialist.
He bought the car from said specialist, which has poor overspray/accident damage (unexplained) and a leaking roof, rusty front wings, roof with splits in it and now needs 2 catalytic converters (apparently) at great cost of course. I think it is just a baffle vibrating, but I'm not a 'specialist'...
So the specialist in this case is earning easy money from a devoted/deluded 'fan'.
My mate paid £9k for his 'classic car' about 6 years ago, it is worth about £2k in current condition, and each year he spends between £2-3k on 'essential' specialist servicing etc. So his 'investment' of circa £22k is now worth £2k, with a good £3-4k needed to bring it back to a decent standard.
I'm of the 'fix it myself if I can' camp, or at least find out the problem at the very least.
I paid £50 to have the oil and filter changed with fully synthetic oil last time it need doing on my Saab at a trusted garage who do MOT's and basic servicing only. It would have cost me a good percentage of that to do it myself, plus I don't want the hassle or risk. It took them 20 minutes while I nipped and got a sandwich. Plus I got an invoice and a stamp. Everyone is happy.
Some people see it as a status symbol that they have a 'pet' mechanic or specialist.
Someone I know has a nice car, but never cleans it etc and front arches are going rusty now (German car from 1997) so basically neglects the car, but takes it to a marque 'specialist' and pays a fortune to have it "looked after".
The general gist seems to be he likes going to see 'his' mechanic and worships every word he says, not questioning his 'expertise' about anything. The other problem I find with my friend's logic is he seems to see these visits as an 'investment', but fails to see the cost of his investment, i.e he bought a semi-classic German car which will only go up in value, depute being rusty and neglected, and several thousands a year visiting a specialist.
He bought the car from said specialist, which has poor overspray/accident damage (unexplained) and a leaking roof, rusty front wings, roof with splits in it and now needs 2 catalytic converters (apparently) at great cost of course. I think it is just a baffle vibrating, but I'm not a 'specialist'...
So the specialist in this case is earning easy money from a devoted/deluded 'fan'.
My mate paid £9k for his 'classic car' about 6 years ago, it is worth about £2k in current condition, and each year he spends between £2-3k on 'essential' specialist servicing etc. So his 'investment' of circa £22k is now worth £2k, with a good £3-4k needed to bring it back to a decent standard.
I'm of the 'fix it myself if I can' camp, or at least find out the problem at the very least.
I paid £50 to have the oil and filter changed with fully synthetic oil last time it need doing on my Saab at a trusted garage who do MOT's and basic servicing only. It would have cost me a good percentage of that to do it myself, plus I don't want the hassle or risk. It took them 20 minutes while I nipped and got a sandwich. Plus I got an invoice and a stamp. Everyone is happy.
julian64 said:
sanguinary said:
I offered to do the same job on my FIL's Quashqai. Only problem was it was in Cyprus and the 10 minute job turned into 2 hours because of the 40 degree heat. I was sweating before I'd opened the socket set!
Huhhandle trim comes off using a fingernail. Two bolts and the whole handle comes off the door. Just pull the door card and it falls off on poppers. Then the pull handle secures with a single bolt?
The three bolts are phillips.
I think the socket set was slowing you up there! I wouldn't have know what to do with the socket set.
Only problem was the cable tie lunched itself on the window mechanism....
I get my current car done by a main dealer, purely because of the perks that I get from Vauxhall meaning I can get it serviced by them for the same cost as a back street garage. That and my car has full dealer service history from new.
My old car didn't come with a service book and never went into a garage ever.. I did all the work and servicing on it myself.
All based on the car and condition of it to me!
My old car didn't come with a service book and never went into a garage ever.. I did all the work and servicing on it myself.
All based on the car and condition of it to me!
For me it all depends on the age and value of the car.
If it's new you're probably better off (future resale value wise) going for the stamps.
If it's second-hand but only a few years old, dealership it for a couple of years then on to DIY.
If it's several years old just DIY it.
In all cases I'm assuming average car prices not special/rare marques or variants.
If it's new you're probably better off (future resale value wise) going for the stamps.
If it's second-hand but only a few years old, dealership it for a couple of years then on to DIY.
If it's several years old just DIY it.
In all cases I'm assuming average car prices not special/rare marques or variants.
What do those of you that service your own cars ACTUALLY do when you service it?
Oil, oil filter, fuel filter and air filter?
I wouldn't call that a service.
I have a BMW which has various interval based services that are recommended (based on fuel used and mileage)
Oil service - exactly what it says on the tin.
Inspection I service - Ready for this
Undercarriage
Change engine oil and Oil Filter, check engine at is at normal operation temperature.
Check transmission for leaks.
Check rear axle for leaks.
Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
Check power steering system for leaks.
Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
Examine brake disc surfaces.
Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
Grease wheel center hubs.
Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
Check front control arm bushing for wear.
Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
Engine Compartment
Read out diagnostic system with BMW scanners.
Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
Check air conditioner for operation.
Reset Service Indicator.
Body/Electrical Equipment
Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
Perform batter load test.
Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
Check condition and function of safety belts.
Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
Check central locking/double lock.
Replace microfilter or Acc. Cabin Filter.
Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
Check rear view mirrors
Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.
Then there's the Inspection II service which is the inspection I with added work
Undercarriage
Change engine oil and Oil Filter, check engine at is at normal operation temperature.
Check transmission for leaks.
Check rear axle for leaks.
Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
Check power steering system for leaks.
Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
Examine brake disc surfaces.
Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
Grease wheel center hubs.
Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
Check front control arm bushing for wear.
Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
Check thickness of parking brake linings.
Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.
Engine Compartment
Read out diagnostic system with BMW scanners.
Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
Check air conditioner for operation.
Reset Service Indicator.
Replace spark plugs.
Replace intake air cleaner element (Air Filter).
Body/Electrical Equipment
Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
Perform batter load test.
Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
Check condition and function of safety belts.
Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
Check central locking/double lock.
Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
Check rear view mirrors
Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.
Whilst a lot of it is rubbish a lot of it is quite extensive work and I bet the majority of DIY services neglect the majority of that work resulting in dodgy cars that I, as a 2nd hand buyer, wouldn't touch with a barge pole.
Oil, oil filter, fuel filter and air filter?
I wouldn't call that a service.
I have a BMW which has various interval based services that are recommended (based on fuel used and mileage)
Oil service - exactly what it says on the tin.
Inspection I service - Ready for this
Undercarriage
Change engine oil and Oil Filter, check engine at is at normal operation temperature.
Check transmission for leaks.
Check rear axle for leaks.
Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
Check power steering system for leaks.
Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
Examine brake disc surfaces.
Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
Grease wheel center hubs.
Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
Check front control arm bushing for wear.
Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
Engine Compartment
Read out diagnostic system with BMW scanners.
Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
Check air conditioner for operation.
Reset Service Indicator.
Body/Electrical Equipment
Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
Perform batter load test.
Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
Check condition and function of safety belts.
Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
Check central locking/double lock.
Replace microfilter or Acc. Cabin Filter.
Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
Check rear view mirrors
Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.
Then there's the Inspection II service which is the inspection I with added work
Undercarriage
Change engine oil and Oil Filter, check engine at is at normal operation temperature.
Check transmission for leaks.
Check rear axle for leaks.
Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
Check power steering system for leaks.
Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
Examine brake disc surfaces.
Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
Grease wheel center hubs.
Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
Check front control arm bushing for wear.
Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
Check thickness of parking brake linings.
Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.
Engine Compartment
Read out diagnostic system with BMW scanners.
Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
Check air conditioner for operation.
Reset Service Indicator.
Replace spark plugs.
Replace intake air cleaner element (Air Filter).
Body/Electrical Equipment
Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
Perform batter load test.
Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
Check condition and function of safety belts.
Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
Check central locking/double lock.
Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
Check rear view mirrors
Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.
Whilst a lot of it is rubbish a lot of it is quite extensive work and I bet the majority of DIY services neglect the majority of that work resulting in dodgy cars that I, as a 2nd hand buyer, wouldn't touch with a barge pole.
PHMatt said:
What do those of you that service your own cars ACTUALLY do when you service it?
Oil, oil filter, fuel filter and air filter?
I wouldn't call that a service.
Other stuff
Most of that is visual checks, which take a few seconds. Yes, it is an impressively long list, but most of it is basic and done by the eye (or by plugging it in 'computer says change XXXX, charge customer ££££'). Oil, oil filter, fuel filter and air filter?
I wouldn't call that a service.
Other stuff
Do you genuinely believe that everything on that list is actually done by the dealer?
I try to do everything myself, unless I'm short of time and it's a small job. The first thing I do when I get a car is buy a Haynes manual for it, at least I know when I do it that it's been done, many years ago I took my car in for a service and I'm not sure they did anything because the air filter was the same I put in before, I know this because I accidentally nicked the rubber seal before and all they had done was cleaned it! Charged me for it too but I got a refund when I pointed out their 'discrepancy'.
PHMatt said:
Whilst a lot of it is rubbish a lot of it is quite extensive work and I bet the majority of DIY services neglect the majority of that work resulting in dodgy cars that I, as a 2nd hand buyer, wouldn't touch with a barge pole.
you make a valid point.However, i did read the entire list and ticked over 95% of it as either "yes", "that's an MoT", "redundant" or "not bothered". In fact most of it was flannel tbh.
I do the basics, check underneath and then engage a trusted specialist regularly but not frequently. That last point is key and results in my cars being far better than something just dropped off at the stealer annually. imo.
StuTheGrouch said:
PHMatt said:
What do those of you that service your own cars ACTUALLY do when you service it?
Oil, oil filter, fuel filter and air filter?
I wouldn't call that a service.
Other stuff
Most of that is visual checks, which take a few seconds. Yes, it is an impressively long list, but most of it is basic and done by the eye (or by plugging it in 'computer says change XXXX, charge customer ££££'). Oil, oil filter, fuel filter and air filter?
I wouldn't call that a service.
Other stuff
Do you genuinely believe that everything on that list is actually done by the dealer?
I doubt main stealers do everything but I bet they do more than any hobby mechanic. Not to mention, know how to spot a problem better.
The guys at my local BMW are very knowledgeable actually but I'd take it to an independent just because it's a lot cheaper
PHMatt said:
I'm sure the majority of people on here saying they do their own servicing wouldn't even know how to check fluid levels on a clutch or see if there are any leaks high under the chassis hidden away or know whether there is play in a bush hidden away somewhere.
I doubt main stealers do everything but I bet they do more than any hobby mechanic. Not to mention, know how to spot a problem better.
The guys at my local BMW are very knowledgeable actually but I'd take it to an independent just because it's a lot cheaper
Depends on the person. I have had times where I am sure it's the new apprentice just learning to do stuff and making a complete mess of things in a garage. As a very generalised thing I would say the jobs the home mechanics do are done to a reasonable standard (or better), but probably missing some of the other checks. But as mentioned a lot of those checks sound big and important, but are nothing more than someone looking and seeing there is no oil on the outside of the part.I doubt main stealers do everything but I bet they do more than any hobby mechanic. Not to mention, know how to spot a problem better.
The guys at my local BMW are very knowledgeable actually but I'd take it to an independent just because it's a lot cheaper
In regards to servicing it's much the same as quite a lot of others here. Older cheap cars do it myself generally if no need for a ramp. New car/ specialist make then get it serviced at a workshop.
Hi All, looking at the info in the opening piece, and that the garage stamped the book after allowing the owner to
service his own car, NOT a chance,there is no way i would risk my business name in doing that.The fact that they did not actually carry out the work could be misleading when car is sold in the future.
I have had customers carry out some work on there cars, and next minute they are in a right mess,and on the phone crying.
Chris
service his own car, NOT a chance,there is no way i would risk my business name in doing that.The fact that they did not actually carry out the work could be misleading when car is sold in the future.
I have had customers carry out some work on there cars, and next minute they are in a right mess,and on the phone crying.
Chris
I service and maintain my own car to the best of my ability.
Any jobs I cannot do or dont have the tools to do I usually take the car to a specialist - which has only been once.
My car has been a learning curve and I have learned a lot during my 3 years ownership (2002 A4 2.5TDi Quattro), I feel I have saved more than a few thousand by learning how to do things myself, a prime example of this being the repalcement of the camshafts and top end components which unfortunatley is a common problem with this engine.
I sourced the camshafts, lifters, rocker arms, thrust pads.etc from germany along with new timing belts/pulleys, timing tools for just over £1000 and spent a weekend working on the car.
I believe I would have paid around £1000 in labour to have the job done by a professional.
All other work; brakes, oil service every 5k, bushes, suspension arms, engine mounts - the list is pretty comprehensive, I have done myself.
The car is just about to tick over 200k and still feels tight - I plan on keeping as long as I can foresee.
I also have the added benefit of satisfaction that im the one keeping my car on the road, the car is paid meaning I can save for my next car unlike a few of my peers who pay finance each month.
The car will probably get broken for parts once I am done, but for now, it ticks all the boxes for me - it could do with another 100bhp or so, but I have bought a bike for thrills, which incidentally also gets maintained by myself (valve shimming recently done!)
I also spend a lot of time researching parts / oils / tyres.etc
I always go with the phrase, if you want something doing properly - do it yourself, as far as reasonably practicable.
Any jobs I cannot do or dont have the tools to do I usually take the car to a specialist - which has only been once.
My car has been a learning curve and I have learned a lot during my 3 years ownership (2002 A4 2.5TDi Quattro), I feel I have saved more than a few thousand by learning how to do things myself, a prime example of this being the repalcement of the camshafts and top end components which unfortunatley is a common problem with this engine.
I sourced the camshafts, lifters, rocker arms, thrust pads.etc from germany along with new timing belts/pulleys, timing tools for just over £1000 and spent a weekend working on the car.
I believe I would have paid around £1000 in labour to have the job done by a professional.
All other work; brakes, oil service every 5k, bushes, suspension arms, engine mounts - the list is pretty comprehensive, I have done myself.
The car is just about to tick over 200k and still feels tight - I plan on keeping as long as I can foresee.
I also have the added benefit of satisfaction that im the one keeping my car on the road, the car is paid meaning I can save for my next car unlike a few of my peers who pay finance each month.
The car will probably get broken for parts once I am done, but for now, it ticks all the boxes for me - it could do with another 100bhp or so, but I have bought a bike for thrills, which incidentally also gets maintained by myself (valve shimming recently done!)
I also spend a lot of time researching parts / oils / tyres.etc
I always go with the phrase, if you want something doing properly - do it yourself, as far as reasonably practicable.
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