There are some things not worth doing yourself anymore like changing oil. I have a friend who learned that lesson this past week. The block-filter adapter came out with the filter and since he didn't really understand what it was or how to get it out of the filter and screw it back into the block he just grabbed it with pliers and proceeded to mess up the threads. He then tried screwing it in with screwed up threads and cross threaded it so the filter wasn't sealing against the block. A $70 tow and $100 later to have the heavy repair guy retap the threads and he is back on the road. I had to tell him that at best if he changed his own oil he might save $5. Not worth the potential of something going wrong. His lesson learned cost him roughly $150 - ouch!
Honestly, you should just start with some general knowledge (the YouTube suggestion isn't bad, plenty of informative videos on there). Then you can have somebody like your brother or a friend teach you some basic things if you really have an interest in knowing how to do it. But, if you are not mechanically inclined (like my friend) the knowledge is good to have but I'd leave it to mechanics to fix the stuff.



Yeah, they should have given you an overall estimate of ALL work needed before. Keep in mind that something new could have developed like the control arms but typically the different mechanics like to flock around cars on the oil change rack so they can try and up sell work in their specialty. That usually results in a pretty good workup of any work needed. Sometimes though the service advisers may hold some stuff back so as to not scare you off of having any work done. I was never a fan of that move even though I understand it - I always tell whoever I am taking my vehicle too to just tell me everything and prioritize the seriousness of the needed repairs so I can make an informed decision. Of course, I found my "guy" who I know I can trust. Everybody needs to find their "guy", ask around for suggestions. Good mechanics/repair shops are like gold, rare and worth holding on to once found.



Nah, If you start to hear clunking over bumps then you know the bushings are worn pretty good. I haven't seen a control arm separate in ages.



The pull could honestly just be a little tire wear and it could be the road crown on the roads you drive on. If the tires aren't wearing bad around the outer tread row in choppy waves (called "cuffing" then you are in decent shape. Keep them rotated every couple of oil changes and they should last.