In a recent viral TikTok video, mechanic Daimee Rosales gained widespread attention by performing an oil change before demonstrating her strength with leg raises beneath a raised vehicle. This engaging clip propelled the 25-year-old to a following of over half a million users, allowing her to combine her passion for mechanics with entertaining content aimed at educating a younger audience, particularly women, about automotive care.
Rosales operates primarily out of her father’s auto repair shop in Toronto, where she shares car maintenance tips while challenging stereotypes in a male-dominated industry. She emphasizes the importance of fair pricing, particularly for female customers, stating, “We will never overcharge them. I want to do my work and make sure it’s done for a fair price.”
Vehicles to Avoid for Longevity
With her extensive experience, Rosales offers valuable insights on car brands to steer clear of, particularly those that may lead to costly repairs in the long run. When asked about the vehicles she would not recommend, she pointedly mentioned Ford, Volkswagen, and Chevrolet. This advice may come as surprising to many, as Ford’s F-150 pickup is consistently one of the best-selling vehicles in North America, with prices ranging from $40,000 to $85,000. Similarly, General Motors, parent company of Chevrolet, boasts the popular Silverado as its best-selling model.
Rosales also cautioned against European luxury vehicles, such as BMW, Jaguar, Audi, Mercedes, and Land Rover, citing their expensive repairs and overall lack of reliability. “BMWs are fun to drive, but to own one? Not a good idea,” she remarked, highlighting the financial burden of maintaining such cars.
In addition to her concerns about traditional vehicles, Rosales expressed skepticism about electric vehicles (EVs), particularly regarding the high costs associated with battery replacements. In colder climates, these expenses can escalate, potentially costing owners thousands of dollars.
Recommendations for Reliable Brands
Instead of these less reliable brands, Rosales advocates for tried-and-true manufacturers like Toyota and Honda. “Those are super easy to work on,” she stated, underscoring their reputation for durability and low maintenance costs. Her insights align with advice from other seasoned mechanics, including YouTube automotive expert Scotty Kilmer, who also recommends avoiding Ford and Chevrolet trucks based on their repair histories.
For car owners, Rosales emphasized the necessity of routine maintenance to avoid expensive repairs. She noted that many drivers, particularly women, often neglect basic upkeep, such as regular oil changes. “A lot of people don’t keep up with their oil changes,” she observed, explaining that this simple oversight can lead to significant issues with the engine or transmission over time.
Rosales suggests adhering to a standard oil change schedule of every 5,000 miles, where sedan and SUV drivers should expect to pay between $70 and $90. For those driving V8-powered vehicles, a typical oil change could cost around $120. She warns that any significantly higher charges might indicate that the shop is overcharging.
As a prominent figure in the automotive community, Daimee Rosales not only showcases her technical skills but also aims to empower others, particularly women, within the trade. Her practical advice serves as a reminder of the importance of informed choices when it comes to purchasing vehicles and maintaining them for long-term reliability.
