There are definite pros and cons of DIY (Do It Yourself) car repairs. If you have a modern Volvo, it is a complex piece of technology. Almost every system in it is computerized. Just to be able to diagnose certain problems, you need state-of-the-art equipment, and deep knowledge of the inner workings of the car. That said, you might still want to work on your Volvo yourself. In that case, please make sure you acquire the proper knowledge and get the correct tools. Here are some pros and cons of DIY-ing your Volvo.
Pros of Repairing Your Volvo Yourself – DIY
Let’s look at the advantages of repairing your Volvo yourself.
- Savings in Cost: Professional services from a trained and certified mechanic is understandably more expensive. You may opt to do it yourself to save money on labor. You’ll still need to pay for parts. If you have the knowledge and equipment to DIY your Volvo’s maintenance or repair, this is where you can save.
- Learning Experience: You may be someone who likes to learn new things and gain new experiences. You could learn some car repair techniques here and there and apply them to your Volvo. You may feel a sense of satisfaction to have done it yourself.
- Timing and Convenience: You might find scheduling with a garage is not working out for your time-wise. So doing it yourself gives you more control over your time, as well as the work that is being done.
Cons of Repairing Your Volvo Yourself – DIY
Now let’s look at the disadvantages of repairing your Volvo yourself. Please ask yourself the following questions before you take on the project of repairing your Volvo yourself:
- Knowledge and Experience: Do you have the know-how, the knowledge, and the experience to tackle the repair yourself? Modern Volvos are complex computerized machines, made up of elaborate, and intricate electronic circuits that control the entire car.
- Tools and Equipment: Do you have the sophisticated diagnostic tools to figure out what and where the problem is in your Volvo? Remember most issues in today’s Volvos are diagnosed by state-of-the-art computerized diagnostic tools, which read the error codes thrown by your car’s internal computer.
- Time and Money: It is said, time is equal to money. How quickly can you learn and acquire the same knowledge and experience a professional mechanic has gained over many years of learning and hands-on experience? Of course you can do it, but even if you are a quick-study, it’ll still take you time.
- OEM Parts: Do you know how to get the best price on OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts? We have established business relationships with dealers of OEM parts and can get deep discounts, which we pass on to you, the customer.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: In certain cases, if a car is opened up by a non professional, the original manufacturer’s warranty may be void.
- Safety for All: If you don’t do it right, you’ll have to bring it in to an experienced mechanic anyway. That’s not only a waste of your time, but also your money. The work needs to be done correctly. A professional garage will give you a warranty on their work. It is a matter of safety for yourself and others on the road.
- Legal Issues: If your Volvo were to be involved in an accident due to some mechanical failure, and it turns out previous work on it was not done by a professional, you may not have a strong case to obtain compensation. A professional mechanic will offer you a warranty on their work, which is why they can be held liable for failure of performance. If you do the job yourself, you are liable.
Is There Any DIY Work You Can Do on Your Volvo?
Of course there is! Depending on your comfort level, there are several regular maintenance jobs you can do yourself. Please feel free to ask us. We will even guide you through the process. We are here to help. We are your partner.
Swedish Auto Service
At the end of the day, the decision is yours. We simply want to be of help and assist you when you need it. If you are knowledgeable and comfortable going DIY, then by all means have at it. Keep safety in mind though. That’s most important.
Call us or schedule an appointment with us. At Swedish Auto Service, we are certified and trained technicians. We want to offer you assistance whenever you need it. Stop by any of our locations in Texas. You’ll find us in Cedar Park, Round Rock, Leander, and Austin.