Auto debate: 9 situations when DIY car repair does more harm than good!

The high cost of auto maintenance can be a burdensome cross to bear and therefore, many car owners prefer to do DIY car repair. However, repairing cars at home sometimes does more harm than good if the drivers have not equipped with vital tips. 

Compared to simpler equipped cars that were basic with less ECU use and with none of the premium features, they were easy to fix and get running. Now with even the simplest unit with a minor ECU equipped does make it a bit difficult.

Also, car components are not one-piece throw away components like cars today. Older cars straight forward fixed with more metal parts that were more durable. The most striking difference is more simplicity and complexity that is mucking around may be something to regret!

Vehicle owners should have to be smart about DIY car repair and with new cars, the stakes just got higher! Mistakes are not an option, and in this writing, Philkotse.com will cover and discuss some situation when DIY car repair does more harm than good. 

1. When the car immobilizer has been tripped!

Seriously, many car owners do not know that losing the chip installed in the key FOB is will stop the car from starting. Sometimes, messing around with the fuse box or forcing quick fixes will make things worse for bear! Cars without an immobilizer can be hotwired or have the electricals checked.

2. When ECU - equipped car has a dead battery

Replacing a dead battery on an ECU equipped car should be done carefully. Newer cars with ECUs cannot be disconnected for the battery unless a new battery is available. ECU units maintain control of vital units, in a modern automobile so having it connect while changing is important. Especially if the ECU can be affected by a simple battery disconnection.

Changing a dead battery is recommended only when having a new battery available 

3. When the ABS pump is not working 

The ABS pump is important, and when the brakes go red, there is a problem with it! There are several options like taking it off the terminal, for ECU cars it might be bad since the ECU needs to detect it. Not detecting it will register as an error in the ECU. It may affect the Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) or Brake Assist (BA) which can be a serious safety impediment as well.

4. When recognizing warning light on the dashboard for the SRS system 

The SRS airbag system is very delicate, and when malfunctions do happen, it can lead to disaster. An instance of accidentally firing or not firing when needed. If this happens, then it’s better to chill and be careful! Sometimes airbags explode, and it hampers visibility or disaster for the car and driver.

Never attempt to open it or to monkey with it. Because it may just make the airbag problem worse than it is. Leave it to technicians to fix the issue or spend more for any bumbling DIY repairs. Let the pros handle it.

5. When the engine lights icon turns red

Now, whenever this does happen and some or all icons; in the dashboard goes full Christmas tree that means the ECU is having problems. By, problems it means that idling is erratic and many functions are going on the fritz now or soon! With the possibility of the complete and utter shutdown which is not safe.

Some who have an ECU repair device may attempt to correct it by rebooting or restarting the program. Never do it, because this is dangerous and can make it worse. The solution is to call a technician who can reboot and reinstall the ECU program where the car is or have it towed!

>>> You might like to read: 4 Essential Care Tips for Maintaining Your Car Engine

Red engine light tells that your car is facing big problems, please bring it to a professional store

6. Be careful when reviewing the brake systems

Brake components like the brake pad or caliper will vary according to the car type. Before testing any brake system problems; it should be determined how complex or simple the system is! If it is just like a regular brake pad and calipers, drum or disc brakes; it would be easy to deal with.

In case; there are fancy features like tire-pressure monitors and other sensors it better to hold off a bit. Chances are there will be sensor attachments and other fancy equipment that should be noted. Get a mechanic who knows how to go about the repair, to make sure it is done right!

D.I.Y car maintenance - GONE WRONG

7. When having electrical problems

Never mess with the fuse box of ECU equipped cars, when there are electrical problems. Basically, the problems when DIY car repair does more harm than good because the ECU is precise and is sensitive if messed with. Fuses control the functions, and the ECU helps regulates and control all functions efficiently. Never replace a fuse unless really urgent or have it checked as is!

8. When it comes to change the spark plugs

Never change the spark plugs unless it is really needed or tinker with the high-tension wires. ECU equipped cars are very sensitive, and messing with spark plugs or high-tension wires may affect the firing of the engine controlled ECU. Better to get to a mechanic asap when combustion isn’t efficient.

Careless spark plugs replacement can affect the firing of the engine 

9. If idling is a bit low and there is a loss of power

All is good even with low idling because the car can get somewhere and it’s not the end of the world. Never attempt to change the setting manually, because the ECU will register an error.

Saving on repairs is important but having proper knowledge of DIY car repair is a must. Think before committing or more expenses will be incurred.

>>> Click here to get more helpful tips and advice for your car maintenance