I also do as much as I can. I don't really mess with struts/springs. And the exhaust systems, espesially if it only needs a piece. I'll buy the particular piece that I need online and have the local muffler shop install for their 1hr labor charge. Still much less expensive than having them do the whole job and charging me their full price and using their part#'s. Probably save around $100.
If I need a complete exhaust system, I'll do the job myself, as I can build the whole system on the garage floor, slide it under the vehicle and install the whole system after the previous one has been removed for a comparison. It's laying on the ground and trying to torch out one(1) single piece that causes me frustration. Laying on the garage floor or driveway doesn't bother me, it's the lack of room for some repair that cause me grief, therefore, taking me longer to do the job.
All other repairs I also do myself and I don't like anyone touching my brakes. I couldn't pay someone enough money to do the thorough job that I do when doing brakes. Takes me awhile to do all four wheels but, they're done right and I usually don't have to go back in to redo anything. When my brake jobs are done, they're complete. No noises, squeels, binding, nothing but good quiet braking and great pedal feel and fresh fluid and every part is lubed properly.
Timing belts are another item that I'm willing to pay for but, I'll shop around for the best price, have the tech install all new belts, water pump, oil seals if needed and if they're in the general area of the rear spark plugs on a FWD "V" engine, I'll have them replace all plugs too! This is a one time expence so, I want it done right and only once by someone that I trust from recomendations of others in my circle. Preferably not from "I know a guy"!
I want a reputable shop doing the job should I have issues in the future. Maybe I'll tackle a timing belt job(and all of the other items that go with it) but, I will want some moral(and maybe some physical) support and tools from those in my circle.
These days and what's ahead in the future, if you keep your vehicles long enough til it's into it's teens or older, when doing some serious repairs that should have been simple, you may just have to remove the engine for the repair. If we're not removing the engines now, we will be in the future, I can see it coming! The manufactures are making simple items very difficult to replace these days. I'm finding it very hard to do some simple repairs/replacements on parts. You have to take apart everything to find/see anything, let alone try to get your hands in there.
A lift(which I won't invest in) would be nice as my dad always used a lift at his station. 25 years ago I should have invested into a lift but today, I really want to do less work on vehicles and more traveling