Over the years, I've tried to do all of my own auto repairs, teaching myself as much as I could along the way and leaning on friends for things I didn't understand. The one thing that I always avoided doing myself was changing my brake pads and rotors. This weekend, I finally tackled that on my own, so I feel like this is a goal I can finally check off my list.

Why were you inspired to do this?

In order to save money and feel like a real man, I have always preferred to do my own auto repairs. The problem is that I'm not very mechanically inclined and have never been taught how to do most things, so it's definitely been a learning experience. Some of the things I've done before I felt like I could say I was a true automotive DIYer include: - Changing my oil. - Replacing brake pads and rotors - Doing a tune-up - Replacing an alternator and battery - Jump-starting an engine - Changing out headlights and tail lights - Changing a tire - Replacing windshield wipers - Checking and topping off all fluids

What were 3 things you did to make this happen?

YouTube videos from other DIYers and mechanics. This definitely helped with the brake job.

Tips and assistance from helpful friends and family members.

Some new tools along the way. Now that I have them, I don't have that added expense the next time I need to do the same repair.

How did you feel once you had accomplished this?

Like a man-beast of course.