I just purchased a 1998 Honda Civic EX 2dr Coupe with 74K miles. At the pre-purchase inspection, the mechanic mentioned numerous things he would change/service with escalating price tags. I am interested in trying to do some of these things myself and wanted to know what is reasonable for a novice to attempt with a Chilton's guide or equivalent in these cars and what is best left to a professional. Specifically, I am interested in replacing the fuel filter, the PCV valve, and the possibly the drive belts. Can these all be replaced from the top? How often should the drive belts be changed and are all 3 belts identical?

Is it also reasonable to attempt to change the brake fluid and engine coolant myself?

The mechanic also mentioned new struts, a throttle house cleaning, A/C service, and changing the gear box oil basically as PM not specifically for identified problems with my car. How important are these issues?

Thanks

 

all of those except the struts are cake work. struts aren't hard they just take time and specific tools.

the AC service should be left to professionals, but if the AC works don't worry about it.

 

My $0.02 - If you are thinking about performance handling, now would be a good time to look into getting performance springs and shocks.

 

I've done the coolant change, pcv valve, springs/struts, fuel filter myself using a manual not knowing what I was doing and it was really easy and seld explanatory. Just take your time and don't lose anything and pay close attention to every detail in the instructions and you will be ok. :goodjob: Rest I would let someone who knows what they are doing so it.