Self servicing

[shifty_uk]

My cars 11 year old, I don't think the resale value will benefit much from having the book stamped every year and I'm tired of handing over £150 for a half arsed service. I'll always get my oil+filter changed at the garage but I think it's about time I learned to do these things myself. Especially when a service kit can be had for 23 quid on ebay.

Do many of you do it? Is it achievable on the driveway and does it have an impact on resale? I have a jack, a few sets of my late grandfathers tools(not sure if they'll suffice car wise but I'll check) and I'll be picking up a manual shortly.

Car is just a 1.2 Clio so I don't imagine it'll be too complicated mechanically but pretty much all I've ever done is change light bulbs and topped all the fluid levels up! Am I doomed?

 

[shifty_uk]

I have always serviced my own cars as long as they are not brand new. I just keep all the receipts etc.

Go to the local motor factors rather than buying a service kit off ebay. What does the said service kit include btw?

This is the service kit I was on about but obviously I wouldn't need the oil filter. Would it be cheaper to source the parts separately?

oops, here it is: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/RENAULT-CLIO-..._CarParts_SM&hash=item1e5b7ca024#ht_770wt_907

 

[shifty_uk]

All I really need is air filter and spark plugs at present. I'll nip up to the local parts supplier tomorrow for pricing.

Just noticed in the opening post I wrote '11 year old'...No idea where I plucked that from when I was writing it the cars 9 years old.

Maccapacca, is it possible to have the car checked over mechanically in the usual service manner, without any work carried out? I imagine so.

 

[shifty_uk]

Why wouldn't you need an oil filter? Not planning on changing the oil? I would just go check out the prices in somewhere like GSF or euro car parts first and ask for the bits you want and give them your car reg number. An air filter would be about £7, plugs £1.50/£2 each and an oil filter about £5.

It will all be branded stuff as well and if they give you the wrong filter type etc you can just pop back down there and swap it. I have a good rapport with the guys in my local GSF now from servicing my cars. Once you are a regular face they are keen to help out where they can.

My mechanic changes my oil/filter. With it being so quick and cheap to get done, I really don't see the need to be messing around with it. Garage has the correct oil grade in bulk and a ramp for a quick, easy changeover.

The cars due an MOT in June so as you said, that will be checked then. The track rods were changed last year.

Spark plugs and air filter will be on my shopping list. However, I read that spark plugs generally last 70,000 miles? Is it the norm to get them done annually? The service history has had them changed every year, as far as I can see and they were done this time last year.

Air filter shouldn't be that difficult for a DIY job but I can't find a guide for the Clio online.

 

[shifty_uk]

It's all they had in 4 litre bottles on ECP. Forget kwik fit, take it to National.

National quoted me 32 quid for a change with Castrol. When it's that cheap I don't see the point doing it myself, tbh. Trouble was, this time I had a leak and opted for my usual mechanic who sorted things out at no additional charge. Didn't want some tinker creating more issues.

 

[shifty_uk]

Been scouring ebay for days, trying to pick up a used manual with no luck. Looks like it'll be 18-19 quid! Not too fussed about the initial outlay but if there's online options available, I'll take them.

Would owners websites been a good bet? The main Clio one is Clio Sport but it's a paid subscription, is that aimed more towards the sports models?

Is pretty simple on that sort of car mate, As for the resale, just keep all the recipts for parts you spent on the car and keep then in a folder.
If your close enough ill come give you a hand the first time?

I'll take you up on that if I get stuck I'm sure my neighbour or father 'inlaw' might wade in first