5 Car Repairs You Should Never Attempt Alone
The rise of DIY car repair videos and step-by-step guides has made it easier than ever to tackle basic maintenance on your own. While changing oil or replacing wiper blades might be within reach, some repairs are simply too risky or complex to handle solo. Without the right tools, training, or a second set of eyes, these tasks can lead to serious injuries or make a bad problem even worse. Before you pop the hood with confidence, here are 5 car repairs you should never attempt alone—and why calling a pro (or at least a buddy) is the smarter move.
1. Suspension Work or Strut Replacement
Working on your vehicle’s suspension might sound like a great way to save hundreds in labor, but it can quickly become dangerous. Coil springs are tightly compressed and under high tension. If released improperly, they can shoot out with explosive force, causing serious injury or worse.
Even experienced mechanics use specialized tools like spring compressors and lift platforms to reduce the risk. Attempting to remove struts or shocks without these tools—or without someone nearby for safety—could be a disaster waiting to happen. This isn’t a job for trial and error.
2. Fuel System Repairs or Tank Removal
Your car’s fuel system carries flammable liquids and vapors that require extreme caution. Whether you’re replacing a fuel pump or removing a gas tank, one wrong move can cause fire, explosion, or toxic exposure. Even something as simple as static electricity can ignite fumes.
This is one repair that demands ventilation, the right tools, and ideally, a second person to watch for sparks or handle emergencies. If you smell gas or need to access the fuel lines, step back and consult a professional—it’s not worth the risk.
3. Transmission Removal or Replacement
The transmission is one of the most complex and heaviest components in your car. Removing or replacing it requires not only mechanical expertise but also serious lifting equipment like transmission jacks or engine hoists. If it slips or falls, the damage to both you and the vehicle could be catastrophic.
Trying to muscle it out on your own is not only physically dangerous but can also lead to misalignment or installation errors. With today’s electronically controlled systems, even the smallest mistake can lead to thousands in repairs. This is a job for a team or a shop.
4. Brake System Overhauls (Beyond Pad Replacement)
While replacing brake pads is a common DIY task, anything more in-depth—like working on the master cylinder, brake lines, or ABS modules—requires extra caution. Your brake system is your car’s most critical safety feature, and even minor errors can lead to brake failure.
Bleeding brake lines incorrectly or over-tightening components can compromise your stopping power. You should never attempt a full brake system overhaul without someone else present—preferably with experience—who can double-check the work or assist in case something goes wrong during testing.
5. Airbag System Repairs or Deployments
Modern airbag systems are designed to deploy in milliseconds during an accident, but that power can be extremely dangerous when you’re working on the vehicle. Tampering with airbag components without proper training could cause accidental deployment, leading to serious injury and a costly replacement.
Some vehicles require you to disconnect the battery for hours before working near airbags. Even then, static electricity or an incorrect tool could trigger deployment. If you’re dealing with steering wheel removal, crash sensors, or dash work near airbags, get help or call in an expert.
When Safety Comes First, Leave It to the Pros (or Bring a Backup)
There’s nothing wrong with being handy under the hood, but not all car repairs are created equal. The risk of serious injury, irreversible damage, or costly mistakes just isn’t worth it, especially when you’re working alone. Know your limits, recognize when backup is essential, and remember: saving money is great, but saving your life is better.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.