Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

[Gobird]

This doesn't mean a whole lot but was wondering how many members out there are Shade Tree Mechanics or are you the guy/gal that leaves your repairers up to your dealer? Not a good or bad thing, just asking the question. Vote for what you think you are.

[toysax]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

For repairs on my Tbird it is dealer.
My truck is former ford mechanic now running his own shop.
Our Kia is under warranty so dealer.

[jerrym3]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

I'll do what I can on my Galaxie, but, except for fairly simple stuff, like filter changes, diagnosing and fixing the Bird (and my LS) are best left to the experts.

I wouldn't mind doing my own oil and oil filter changes, but the dealer's fairly reasonable cost is tough to beat.

[5bird7]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

Poll doesn't quite fit me. I use both - the shade tree mechanic and the dealership. Each has their own expertise.

[2Redbirds57/02]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

Do the maintenance myself. But it goes to the dealer for repairs. Only been back to the dealer 3 times in 9 years.

[JAB02LHS]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

None of the choices.

I use a Trusted Independent Mechanic.

[007Cruiser]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

None of the choices.

I use a Trusted Independent Mechanic.

Same here.

[Ediron]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

At one time like many others I did most of my own work. Today the cars are a lot more complicated so I let the dealer do it. Besides I can't work on a car on the condo property .

[Bill Brown]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

Depends on the level of repair and if special tools, that I do not possess, are needed. Day to day stuff and swap-out of modules, switches and valves, COPs etc I do. If it is more complicated for example pulling the steering column, which would require a knowledge of the air bag system, or ABS I will leave to a professional.

[Sealy]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

Also, need the option Dealer (Ford) or Dealer (Lincoln).

[gnilier]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

I have the extended warrenty so the T-bird goes to the dealer. When it runs out I will be doing my own work on her.

[bwlewis]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

I'm with Bill Brown on this.

[texasbird]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

Use both, depending on the job. I have relied more on the Dealer for the Thunderbird, and the Impala is still under warranty.

I know a great independent, who I've trusted with a lot of my past needs.

James

[Kokomo]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

I am a shade tree mechanic. I have done several repairs that I would not have been able to diagnose or wouldn't have known how to do if it weren't for this forum. Most recently, my dual AC coolant control valve failed. The symptoms were exactly as described in several threads and the instructions for repairs were on here, too. I usually do brake jobs and oil changes myself. On my 2002 model, I replaced the clockspring, thanks again to instructions found on this forum. I replaced all 8 cops on her, too. This forum has been a big help. Thanks to all who have shared their experiences.

By definition, a shade tree mechanic is probably not qualified to do any and all work. Most of us are not mechanics by profession either. I have to judge from all available knowledge and past experience whether to attemp certain repairs. If something beyond my abilities comes up an indie or the dealership would do the work.

[millken]

Re: Shade Tree or Dealer Guy

I have done most of the work on my cars myself. Rebuilt my first engine when I was 12 taught by a mechanical engineer rebuilding a world war II jeep, after that it was in my blood.When I purchase a car I always buy the factory manuals for guidance on tough repairs.I do not rebuild trannies though.That I have always had done.