As a former mobile electronics installer, I’ve seen just about every kind of DIY nightmare you can imagine. I’ve also seen a lot of “professional” nightmares: car audio installers are usually just one step up the auto shop evolutionary ladder from the Bondo slingers at body shops. I used to refer to one local shop (long since closed) as The Old Spaghetti Factory after seeing one too many of their alarm installs.
There’s a lot of truth to the article: if you have the slightest doubt about your mechanical ability, leave it to the pros. Myself, I have a ’05 Scion and maintenance doesn’t scare me a bit. Brakes, oil, plugs, belts, and the like are all within the reach of a home mechanic IF you have spent some time turning wrenches and have the ability to follow directions.
Speaking of directions, the Internet is a godsend for DIYers. I downloaded the full shop manual for my car for free (and legally). Back in the bad old days, it would have set me back $50-100 or more and occupied a bunch of shelf space.
