ladybug250

I'm new to the forum, with a 2008 250 that I purchased a couple of years ago. The car is a "true" manual drive (6-speed). My goal is to do as much of the maintenance myself possible. Can someone please tell me is this will be something I will be able to do.

2isPrimid

if i understand, you want to do your own maintenance?

ladybug250

Yeah, basic oil changes, spark plugs, filters...basic things.

2isPrimid

There is a page in the CL forums, it's callled DIY for 2is there are all the DIY for our cars.

Mrfix

I don't see why not. Buy yourself a good set of ramps. A good Jack (Costco has a really nice aluminum/steel) and some jack Stands (make sure they are steel).

For Tools you will need some metric sockets and wrenches. Harbor Freight has some good prices. You will also need some one off sockets, etc. I find that Lowes is the best place for that.


Purchase a scan tool like the following

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Just plug it in and connect via bluetooth through your mobile or tablet using TorquePro.

A lot of folks like the Actron also. They say it will do what a $2k scanner can do.

https://www.amazon.com/Actron-CP9580...=actron+cp9680
There is a wealth of information on this site and youtube.


Here is a short list of maintenance items you should be able to do .

-air filter
-oil change
-rear differential fluid change
-spark plugs
-coolant flush
-brakes
-cabin air filter

There is a wealth of information on this site and youtube. Nothing is very difficult. As you learn more I certainly don't see why you couldn't do things like a water pump or clutch. You can always ask here if you need help.

ladybug250

I greatly appreciate all of the feedback - and look forward to being apart of this "elite" community.

sktn77a

iTrader: (2)

Don't know how skilled you are at DIY but here goes:

Engine air filter - easy
Cabin filter - Easy if you turn the mode switch to "recirculate" (If you don't, prepare for a VERY expensive trip to the dealer!)
Oil change - easy enough but messy. You can get an oil change at jiffy lube inexpensively.
Rear differential fluid change - a little more tricky. Again an independent may be able to do this inexpensively.
Spark Plugs - You gotta be kidding! You have to disassemble everything on the top of the engine to get to them.
Brakes - find a cheap independent to do this.

All this presumes you are inexperienced at car mechanics (the fact you have to ask suggests this)

Not trying to be negative but seriously consider your abilities before you try to tackle some of the less trivial and/or safety related maintenance items.

kolyan

Jiffy Lube for oil changes )) I wouldnt be caught dead at that place...

ladybug250

I will definitely tread lightly and stay in my lane.

flowrider

iTrader: (9)

As mentioned above there are many DIYs here:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...iy-thread.html

This forum is filled with lot's of information. Learn to use the Search Function. It works very well on this forum. And Welcome.

Lou

kumquatism

iTrader: (10)

I was very inexperience at routine maintenance when I bought my manual. Over the years I've been able to do all of the maintenance at home. Search forums, Youtube, etc...for help on pretty much everything. Hardest thing to me was doing the spark plugs -- having a helping hand, especially a mechanically inclined one, makes the job much easier, but honestly it may just be worth it to pay an independent mechanic to do it.

808newbie

yeah, jiffy lube will charge you while they dont do anything to your car. they will just say they changed your oil lol.

kolyan

That's if you are lucky, they tend to drain oil and forget to put new one or don't put enough.....You end up with dead engine very soon