Daimee Rosales, a 25-year-old mechanic from Toronto, has gained significant attention on social media, amassing over 500,000 followers on TikTok. Known for her engaging content that blends automotive advice with humor, Rosales recently shared her recommendations on which car brands consumers should avoid. Her insights are based on years of experience in a predominantly male industry and aim to help drivers make informed decisions.
Rosales’s journey to becoming a role model for women in trades is underscored by her commitment to fair pricing and quality service. She works alongside her father at their auto repair shop, where she emphasizes transparency, especially for female clients. “We will never overcharge them. I want to do my work and ensure it’s done for a fair price,” Rosales told the Daily Mail.
Brands to Avoid for Reliability
When asked about car brands that consumers should steer clear of, Rosales did not hesitate. “Ford, Volkswagen, and Chevrolet,” she stated bluntly. This warning may come as a surprise to many, as Ford’s F-150 remains one of the best-selling vehicles in North America, with prices ranging from $40,000 to $85,000. Chevrolet, under the umbrella of General Motors, boasts the popular Silverado pickup, also among the country’s top sellers. Volkswagen, recognized globally, ranks as the second-largest car manufacturer.
Rosales’s caution extends to European luxury brands, specifically mentioning BMW, Jaguar, Audi, Mercedes, and Land Rover. “BMWs are fun to drive, but to own one? Not a good idea,” she explained, citing high repair costs and reliability issues as key factors. Her perspective aligns with advice from other seasoned mechanics, including Scotty Kilmer, a YouTube personality with 50 years of experience, who also warns against Ford and Chevrolet trucks.
Long-term Maintenance Considerations
For those considering electric vehicles (EVs), Rosales urges caution as well. She highlights the potentially exorbitant costs of battery replacements, which can run into thousands of dollars, particularly in regions with harsh winters. “Drivers should think twice about investing in EVs, especially if they live in cold-weather areas,” she advised.
In contrast, Rosales speaks highly of brands like Toyota and Honda, known for their reliability and ease of maintenance. “Those are super easy to work on,” she noted, emphasizing their long-standing reputation in the automotive industry.
Rosales also shared practical advice for vehicle upkeep. Many drivers, particularly women, neglect routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, which can lead to costly repairs down the line. She recommends adhering to a standard 5,000-mile schedule for oil changes and suggests that drivers should only pay between $70 and $90 for these services in sedans and SUVs. For those with V8-powered trucks, a typical oil change might cost around $120.
Ultimately, Rosales’s mission extends beyond merely sharing car maintenance tips; she aims to empower a younger audience, particularly women, by providing accessible automotive knowledge. Through her blend of education and entertainment, she continues to break barriers in a field where female representation has been historically low.
