DIY Auto Maintenance / Repair (Chantilly, Fairfax: 2015, apartment complex, renting)

[bluef250]

Hi folks,

I live in an apartment complex. I've been looking for a shop that will allow me to do my own vehicle maintenance (really just oil changes). I heard that there used to be a place in Sterling, but it looks like it's no longer in business. Does anyone know of any other places? Community college auto shop? High school auto shop? (Also, I don't have access to military bases.)

Oil and filter for my truck is pretty close to $170. Taking it to the stealership will make a major hurtin' even more major. Fuel filters are pretty close to the same hurtin'. Easy to do myself, would rather pocket the labor. :-)

[spencgr]

I don't know of businesses, but not a single friend with a driveway?

[boyd888]

For just an oil change you could probably get away with using a Mityvac or similar in the parking lot. Finding a friend with a driveway would be a better idea though.

[blindside]

I changed all my fluids and replaced a rusted exhaust pipe in an apartment complex parking lot in Ashburn when I lived at the apartment. It helped to work early in the morning and not make a mess.

Otherwise, I've searched far and wide for a DIY garage, and haven't found one in NoVa. Probably has lots to do with insurance, liability and lawyers in the area.

Seemed to be pretty popular out west though.

[smarterguy]

Yikes, $170. I used to do my oil changes in empty parking garages or lots, usually in a spot out of the way, even better if other cars are parked long term near me which helps shield some the of attention. Never had a problem, though your mileage (heh) might vary.

With a truck, it should be pretty easy since you don't have to jack the car or use ramps for the oil change and most other work.

[Old Town FFX]

I have garage access (not my garage, but a friend) in Fairfax, off Braddock and Waples Mill. Feel free to PM me if you want to set something up.

[bluef250]

Thanks for the input folks! I am willing to drive West Virginia and the part of Maryland that buttresses against West Virginia--so if anyone knows of DIY shops in that area, I'm all ears.

Old Town FFX, thank you for for the offer. Awesome! Fairfax is close! I will be certain to ping you.

[Quincy P]

Here is a Do it yourself mechanic shop in Chantilly NKZ Auto and Body Shop NKZ Auto Body Shop | Do It Yourself DIY Mechanic Northern Virignia – Collusion Repair to Full Paint and Classic Restorations with DIY options 44218 Wade Dr. Unit i Chantilly, Virginia 20152

I did take my truck there and was very happy with the lift, they got water and coffee on the house while you are renting the lift.

Buddy of mine brought his boxter and he liked the place as well. Prices were super cheap for a DIY Mechanic Shop in Northern Virginia...

[314Pie]

park at west falls church metro parking garage, upper floors?
and you can avoid the parking fee by going on the weekend, unless that's changed?

[Old Town FFX]

Originally Posted by 314Pie

park at west falls church metro parking garage, upper floors?
and you can avoid the parking fee by going on the weekend, unless that's changed?

I mean, if you don't want a lift, or air tools, I don't get what you're getting at. Most parking garages even have security now to make sure folks aren't using them as makeshift shade-tree stops.