CarTrek Buying A New Car Compare CR-V – RAV4-Forester-Save Money-Save Time
Buying A New Car Compare CR-V – RAV4-Forester-Save Money-Save Time
Overview
How do you buy a new car? Following my 5-step process will save you money and time. In this example, we are comparing Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester. Not only did I do my own research, but also I asked each dealer to compare their car with others. In this video, you will hear dealers comparing their cars since I would like to see what they have to say about their competitors.
Notice that there are different ranking systems. I pick Consumer Reports as it keeps a neutral position, not accepting manufacturer’s donations. But even with Consumer Reports different months may have different scores. So in the end, you need to weight the overall impressions, price and safety into consideration.
Tags:
New Car Buying tips
Save Money
Save Time
Honda CR-V
Toyota RAV4
Subaru Forester
Consumer Report
Dealers Price
Alternative Methods
There is more than one way to approach this task. Here are the most common methods, ranked by difficulty and cost.
Professional Service
Take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for professional diagnosis and repair.
- Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
- Estimated Cost: $100-$300+
- Notes: Guaranteed workmanship; saves time and eliminates guesswork
DIY Following Manufacturer Manual
Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and perform the procedure yourself with basic hand tools.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Estimated Cost: $20-$100 for parts
- Notes: Most cost-effective; requires patience and willingness to learn
Online Tutorial + DIY
Watch detailed video tutorials specific to your make and model, then perform the repair yourself.
- Difficulty: Beginner-Intermediate
- Estimated Cost: $20-$100 for parts
- Notes: Combines visual learning with hands-on practice; pause and rewind as needed
Tips and Common Mistakes
Avoid these pitfalls and use these tips to get the job done right the first time.
- Read the relevant section of your owner’s manual before starting any repair.
- Take photos of each step with your phone so you can reverse the process if needed.
- Label all connectors, bolts, and hoses as you remove them to avoid confusion during reassembly.
- Use the correct tool for the job — forcing a wrong-size wrench rounds off bolt heads.
- Work on a level surface with the parking brake engaged and wheels chocked.
- Keep a magnetic tray nearby to hold small bolts and fasteners so they do not roll away.
- If a bolt will not budge, apply penetrating oil and wait 10-15 minutes before trying again.
- Clean all mating surfaces before reassembly to ensure proper seals.
Tools and Materials
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Socket wrench set | $20-$60 |
| Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead) | $10-$25 |
| Pliers (needle-nose and standard) | $10-$20 |
| Work light or flashlight | $10-$25 |
| Shop towels / rags | $5-$10 |
| Nitrile gloves | $5-$10 |
| Owner’s manual | Free |
When to Take It to a Mechanic
Not every repair is a DIY job. Take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic if:
- You are unsure about the diagnosis — misdiagnosing the problem wastes money on unnecessary parts.
- The repair involves safety systems (brakes, steering, suspension) — mistakes here can be dangerous.
- Special tools or equipment are required that you do not own and would cost more than the shop labor.
- The vehicle is under warranty — DIY repairs can void warranty coverage if something goes wrong.
- You do not feel confident after watching tutorials and reading guides — there is no shame in hiring a professional.
Video Tutorial
For the full video tutorial, visit Genius Asian.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps carefully for a successful result.
Step 1: Understand the Task
Before starting, read through this entire guide and watch the video tutorial if one is provided above. Gather all tools and materials listed in the Tools and Materials section. Having everything ready before you begin prevents frustrating mid-project trips to the store and keeps the job moving smoothly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Work Area
Work on a flat, level surface with good lighting. If you will be working under the vehicle, ensure it is properly supported on jack stands — never rely solely on a hydraulic jack. Lay down cardboard or a drop cloth to catch spills and make cleanup easier. Keep a fire extinguisher accessible in the work area.
Step 3: Follow the Manufacturer’s Procedure
Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a model-specific repair guide for the exact procedure. Pay attention to torque specifications, fluid types, and any model-specific steps. When in doubt, take a photo before disassembling anything so you have a reference for reassembly.
Step 4: Reassemble and Test
When reassembling, reverse the disassembly order. Tighten fasteners to their specified torque values — hand-tight is not good enough for safety-critical components. After reassembly, perform a thorough test: start the engine, check for leaks, listen for unusual noises, and take a short test drive before resuming normal use.
Step 5: Clean Up and Document
Dispose of any old fluids, parts, or contaminated rags properly. Many auto parts stores accept used oil, coolant, and batteries at no charge. Record the date, mileage, and what was done in a maintenance log — this builds your vehicle’s service history and helps you plan future maintenance.
Safety Precautions
- Always work in a well-ventilated area with adequate lighting.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment: safety glasses, gloves, and closed-toe shoes.
- Keep a first aid kit and fire extinguisher accessible in your work area.
- If working under the vehicle, always use jack stands and wheel chocks — never rely solely on a jack.
- Disconnect the battery before working on any electrical components to prevent short circuits or shock.
- If you feel unsure about any step, stop and consult a professional — your safety is more important than saving money.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money will I save doing this myself?
DIY repairs typically save 50-75% compared to shop labor rates. The main cost savings come from eliminating labor charges, which can range from $75 to $150 per hour at a dealership. Parts costs are similar whether you buy them yourself or the shop sources them, though some shops mark up parts.
What if I make a mistake during the repair?
Most common DIY mistakes are reversible — installing a part backwards, forgetting a step, or not tightening something properly. This is why we recommend taking photos during disassembly and keeping a reference guide handy. If you realize you are in over your head, there is no shame in stopping and calling a professional to finish the job.
Do I need any special training or certification?
No certification is needed for basic maintenance and repair tasks on your own vehicle. However, investing time in watching model-specific video tutorials and reading your service manual significantly improves your confidence and results. Start with simpler tasks and build your skills progressively.
Related Articles
Continue learning with these related guides:
- Car Buying Negotiation Guide
- EV Buying Guide 2026
- Dodge Caravan Changing the Oil Pressure Switch
- Dodge Caravan — How to Turn stuck Ignition Key
This article was originally published on cartrek.com on 2014-08-26. Content has been updated and expanded for 2026.