Common parts by job type
The meter on each tag shows who usually does the job. Red tags are safety-critical. Your own car may be easier or harder than the typical case, so read the manual before you start.
The three levels
DIY-friendly
Jobs that need few or no tools, don't involve lifting the car, and have low risk if something goes slightly wrong. Examples include wiper blades, engine and cabin air filters, many tail light bulbs, topping up washer fluid and checking tire pressures.
Some skill
Jobs that need basic hand tools, some care and sometimes a safe way to raise the car. Examples include oil and filter changes, many headlight bulbs, serpentine belts on some engines, and 12-volt battery replacement on cars that don't need the battery registered.
Shop job
Jobs that are safety-critical, need special tools or training, or can cause expensive damage if done wrong. Examples include brakes, timing belts, fuel system work, suspension and steering, airbags, air conditioning refrigerant, and anything on a high-voltage hybrid or electric system.
Questions to ask yourself first
- Does the owner's manual describe this job for owners?
- Do I have the right tools, including a torque wrench where bolts need a set tightness?
- Will I need to raise the car? If so, do I have jack stands rated for it and a flat, solid surface?
- What happens if I get it wrong? A loose wiper blade is an inconvenience. A loose brake caliper bolt can cause a crash.
- Can I dispose of the old part and any fluids properly?
- Will the car need programming, a reset or a test drive by a professional afterward?
Raising a car safely
Never work under a car held up only by a jack. Jacks can slip or fail. Park on firm, level ground, set the parking brake, chock the wheels that stay on the ground, lift only at the points shown in the manual, and support the car on jack stands rated for its weight before you go underneath.
Working with a shop
When you take a car in, describe what you notice instead of guessing the cause: what the symptom is, when it happens, and whether it is getting worse. Ask for a written estimate before work starts, ask to see or keep the old parts, and keep the invoice with your service records. Look for technicians who hold recognized certifications for the type of work, and ask how the shop warranties its parts and labor.
If you plan to bring your own parts, ask first. Some shops won't fit customer-supplied parts, and others won't warranty the labor when they do. The OEM and aftermarket guide covers part choices, and the safety page covers the warning signs that mean a car should not be driven.