Regrettable DIY Projects That Drained Time and Money

5. Broken Muffler

Estimated New Cost: $200–$600*

Estimated DIY Cost: $15–$20*

When it comes to car maintenance, the price comparison between professional services and DIY solutions often highlights a stark difference. One Corolla owner faced this reality when considering whether to replace his muffler. After weighing the benefits and drawbacks, he arrived at a conclusion familiar to many: replacing or repairing any component of your vehicle, no matter how minor, can be surprisingly costly.

The estimated cost of a new muffler ranges from $200 to $600 when handled by a professional, which can be a significant expense for many car owners. In contrast, attempting a DIY repair could cost as little as $15 to $20, making it an appealing option for those willing to roll up their sleeves and tackle the job themselves.

 

Broken Muffler, Pinterest, and

In a moment of creative problem-solving, the owner of a car with a broken muffler turned to an unconventional solution: using an Apple iPhone charger. While this approach might seem risky—given the fragility of iPhone chargers—it demonstrates a resourceful mindset in a pinch. As long as the charger holds up, it could serve as a temporary fix to keep the vehicle running smoothly.

However, this inventive repair comes with its own set of challenges. The durability of an iPhone charger is questionable, and relying on it for a crucial car component like the muffler might not be the best long-term solution. Still, one can imagine that if an officer were to pull him over for a traffic infraction, they might appreciate the ingenuity behind this makeshift fix.