There’s this age-old debate (well, is there really?) that pits the DIY route against simply getting your trusted mechanic to do a job for you when you need your car fixed. Well, both really do have advantages and they all mostly have to do with your situation.
The main advantage of DIY is the cheaper cost. Naturally, if you do whatever task has to be done by yourself, you won’t have to pay anyone any labor fees. Anyone who has had his car repaired can attest to the experience—nay, the shock—of finding a huge amount billed under labor after getting the receipt from the shop. That is eliminated when you do things the DIY way. Of course, that means you’ll still be spending on tools, equipment and replacement or upgrade components. Maybe you’ll also be shelling out a few bucks for subscriptions to reliable online auto repair manuals. Depending on how much you tune or modify or repair, you could end up either saving money or blowing more on parts.
If you only need to work on your car when something goes wrong, or if you don’t have time to study DIY auto repair, then it might be more practical to just go to the mechanic on the occasion that a component breaks down or something. DIY car care is no laughing matter, and you can’t just expect to wing it (unless you’re one of those geniuses with an inborn aptitude for mechanical work or affinity for vehicle systems).
The best thing to do is to weigh your options. Check out some general car care books or online repair manuals and see if the stuff discussed in their pages is the sort of stuff you’d be able to understand and eventually do by yourself. The choice is yours, and the power is in your hands.
DIY Saturday: Wiper Blade Replacement
For this Saturday’s DIY post, we’ll be looking at one of the simplest automotive replacement tasks that you can perform on your own with no need for the mechanic to do it for you—replacement of the wiper blade.
You’ll often find that a complete wiper blade set will have several attachments or clips. In most instances, you won’t have to use everything. You just have to select which attachment is for the wiper blade in your ride. You can inspect your old wiper arm set-up to see the type of attachment used and determine which of the clips provided you can employ. You’ll also find a complete guide included in the package, provided for the specific make and model of your ride, so you’ll have additional help for the job.
Once you have read the guide, just locate the attachment between the wiper arm and wiper blade. Then, release the blade from the arm. Depending on the set-up, you may see a tab that you only have to push or lift in order to remove the blade. Once the old blade is removed, you can compare it with the new one to ensure that the new one is the right one for your ride. Then, attach the new blade using the clip that comes with the package. Afterwards, check to be sure that the blade is properly secured. To ensure that the process is easy, you will need to lift the wiper arm off the windshield when performing the replacement. Simply lower it back once you are done.
Regular replacement of the windshield wiper blade is crucial to keeping your car windshield clean and clear. It affects your vision of the road ahead, so it’s just vital to keep the said front window free of dirt and debris. By properly replacing the wiper blades in your vehicle, that’s achievable.
Tell Us Your Online Repair Manuals Story!
It’s not everyday you get to hear about how online auto repair manuals have saved a person’s life (whether it’s in the literal or figurative sense). That is why we’re asking you for your stories that revolve around online car repair manuals!
It can be a loose anecdote that summarizes your experience dealing with car problems using your trusted online repair manual, a funny experience, some tips and tricks you might want to share regarding an online auto repair manual service, the works—there’s no holding back here.
If you want to share something, don’t hesitate to drop us a line by using the comments section. Commenting on any post will do, although preferably you will comment on this one.
So start typing those online auto repair manual stories now and get ready for the whole world to know your story!
It can be a loose anecdote that summarizes your experience dealing with car problems using your trusted online repair manual, a funny experience, some tips and tricks you might want to share regarding an online auto repair manual service, the works—there’s no holding back here.
If you want to share something, don’t hesitate to drop us a line by using the comments section. Commenting on any post will do, although preferably you will comment on this one.
So start typing those online auto repair manual stories now and get ready for the whole world to know your story!
Friday’s Advice: Dealing with a Suggested Repair that Doesn’t Sound Good
This post is in continuation of yesterday’s post regarding repairs suggested by mechanics. Every time you bring in your car for a repair or service, you must always expect to deal with additional suggestions from your mechanic—from a simple oil change to complete part replacements. If the mechanic suggests something that you’re not comfortable accepting, there are some things you can do about it.
- Ask. As I have mentioned in my last post, you need to know fully well what the implications of the said service is, and what might happen if you don’t let the mechanic perform that service. Don’t be afraid to investigate. You have the right to know. How important is that repair or service? What might happen if you don’t take up the mechanic’s suggestion? How long until your car fails if you don’t let the mechanic do the service now? Once these questions are answered, either you’ll finally be convinced to have the service done or you will realize you are not really up to it.
- Schedule it for a later date. If you’re still not convinced about the suggested service, postpone the service to another date. This way, you can still do some research or ask friends until you’re sure whether you really need the service or not.
- Refuse. It’s your right to say no to your mechanic. Just tell him you haven’t decided yet, that you will inform him once you have already decided to have the service done. This is better than allowing your mechanic to do the service and having the feeling that you were only ripped off afterwards.
Suggestions from your mechanic will always be there every time you go in for a car service—you do not have to take them all the time, though.
Determining the Top Online Car Repair Manuals
You'll find a wide array of of online auto repair manuals on the Internet. To obtain really accurate and in-depth information, make sure you get an online auto repair manual that is specifically made for your vehicle's year, make and model. If not, you'll only end up throwing away your hard-earned cash on something that isn't really going to help you.
If you manage to secure an accurate online auto repair manual, then you've got a winner. This way, you'll be able to perform your repair and maintenance tasks confidently and with the minimal amount of errors. Always nitpick on the brand of online repair manual that you're going to get, because it is important that you secure access only from reputable brands and publishers. Reputable brands usually mean reliable content, and this will mean you will get accurate online car repair manuals.
If you see a site with samples that contain glaring errors and inconsistencies, better steer clear of that particular service. Don't bother spending money on those, as you'll only be getting substandard quality and unreliable information. You can even end up spending more on botched repairs since the info on those manuals won't help you at all. The best recourse would be to look for online auto repair manuals elsewhere.
By no means are the points we've stated above the only factors you'll need to consider to find the best online auto repair manual for your vehicle and for your needs. However, those points are excellent places to start. Getting an accurate and trustworthy online auto repair manual is an important part of DIY auto repair, so make sure you take the time to learn about the options available to you so that you can make informed decisions. That is how you guarantee that you spend your money wisely on a service that's worth the expense.
If you manage to secure an accurate online auto repair manual, then you've got a winner. This way, you'll be able to perform your repair and maintenance tasks confidently and with the minimal amount of errors. Always nitpick on the brand of online repair manual that you're going to get, because it is important that you secure access only from reputable brands and publishers. Reputable brands usually mean reliable content, and this will mean you will get accurate online car repair manuals.
If you see a site with samples that contain glaring errors and inconsistencies, better steer clear of that particular service. Don't bother spending money on those, as you'll only be getting substandard quality and unreliable information. You can even end up spending more on botched repairs since the info on those manuals won't help you at all. The best recourse would be to look for online auto repair manuals elsewhere.
By no means are the points we've stated above the only factors you'll need to consider to find the best online auto repair manual for your vehicle and for your needs. However, those points are excellent places to start. Getting an accurate and trustworthy online auto repair manual is an important part of DIY auto repair, so make sure you take the time to learn about the options available to you so that you can make informed decisions. That is how you guarantee that you spend your money wisely on a service that's worth the expense.
Immediate Repairs vs. Preventive Maintenance
When you bring your vehicle to a shop for a repair, it seldom happens that a shop will only deal with the repair needed. In most cases, you’ll have to deal with mechanics telling you that you also need to replace this particular filter, or a technician saying that he found this particular part also damaged and needing some fixing. Needless to say, the hundred dollars you plan to spend could very well go up to a thousand dollars after the mechanic inspected your car.
So, how do you deal with things like this? Well, keep in mind that not all mechanics telling you this are actually planning to rip you off. Some of them are only trying to do their job. They find something else that needs fixing, and they tell you about it—just so you will consider the suggestion. If you want to know which suggestion to take and which to refuse, one best means would be to determine which of the suggested services needs immediate attention and which can be dealt with later on.
Immediate repairs and services are needed for parts that might break down anytime and cause damage or endanger your life when not replaced at once. These include damaged brakes, not paying attention to which can lead to accidents. However, services performed as preventive maintenance, those that will prevent the fast wearing of some parts but are not actually critical, may be postponed at a later date.
If you’re not sure which services have to be immediate and which can be performed later without grave consequences, ask your mechanic. Ask what might happen if the suggested repair will not be performed. Any good mechanic will tell you that. Now if you notice the mechanic is trying to hide something, well that’s another story.
A Look at Some Auto Repair Services that May Cost Thousands of Dollars
Do you always suspect that you are being ripped off every time you bring your car to an auto repair shop for a service? If you’ve had several experiences of car repair rip-offs in the past, it is but normal to be paranoid every time you get into a repair shop again. But, for you to ease your worries, you might need to familiarize yourself with the ongoing rates of each auto repair service. This way, when you bring your vehicle to a shop, you’ll have an idea how much the work will cost you.
Below are some of the works that usually cost big:
* Engine repair. Naturally so. The engine being the main powerhouse of your vehicle, its damage can lead to the entire failure of your ride. And, servicing the engine is a labor-intensive task that consumes a lot of time, depending on how serious the problem. In some instances, it will also be best to replace other parts during this servicing, just to save on labor. So, it’s no wonder an engine repair can get expensive.
* Transmission repair or rebuild. Servicing the transmission is another high-cost job. This involves taking off the entire transmission assembly, and in some instances the project could take a few days.
* Fuel injector replacement. The high cost of an injector repair can be attributed to the high cost of a new injector. The usual injector starts at $60, and that can even get higher when it comes to some higher performance injectors.
* Extreme corrosion. The usual corrosion can be easily fixed. But, when the problem has already gone too extensive (i.e. if already a large area of your vehicle is affected), then you might be in for a huge replacement or repair job.
Should you find the need to bring your vehicle to the mechanic for any of these jobs, don’t be surprised if you will be charged with a higher fee.
Buying Parts and Having a Shop Install Them
Auto repair shops get their revenues from several things—mainly from the labor involved in doing a repair or replacement and from the part that they install. If you will notice, parts offered by these shops are more expensive than those that you will find in your local store or in online auto parts shops. Given, the parts that they offer are already available, so you don’t have to wait for a few days unlike when you shop online. But, the mark-up on these parts can sometimes be considerably huge.
One solution that many drivers try is to buy their own parts from the local shop and to bring the parts to the auto repair center for installation. Many shops and mechanics are okay with this, with some mechanics even favoring this practice in case the needed part is not available or is not easy to find. But, there are others who are not into this practice. Some of them will perform the job, but they will not provide you with a warranty for the part, sometimes even for labor. So, you will be at the mercy of your car. There are also some shops that will totally refuse to install a part that is not bought from them.
I haven’t heard of any rule or regulation that prosecutes auto repair shops that refuse to install a part because it isn’t bought from them. So, if you’re someone who wants to save on the high cost of replacement parts offered by shops by buying a cheaper one from your dealer, you need to be clear with the shop that will perform the service. If the shop will not agree, then you can always take your car to another shop that will, or do the installation yourself if you’re familiar with the process.
Cars Need Checkups, Too
I almost forgot that it was our company’s APE today. APE means Annual Physical Examination, which is the company’s way of ensuring it employs people who are well and healthy.
As I was getting all sorts of examinations done—blood chemistry, eye or vision tests, X-rays, the whole gamut—I realized that we are quite similar to cars in this way. People are just like cars, and vice versa. Once in a while, we need to be checked up on—much like the routine periodic maintenance of cars. Every so often, we need to be “fixed,” and so do cars.
While going through the entire APE process, I also thought that there are still many who don’t go out and do the necessary preventive maintenance on their cars. It’s like a physical exam; you check to see if everything’s in great shape, so you can also detect if there’s anything wrong. This way, you can do something about it before it becomes a pain in the butt.
So go check your online repair manuals now and see when your ride is due for its next “checkup.” Your precious ride needs that kind of care and attention so that you can always ensure that it is at its best condition. You’ll enjoy it more if you take care of it properly.
As I was getting all sorts of examinations done—blood chemistry, eye or vision tests, X-rays, the whole gamut—I realized that we are quite similar to cars in this way. People are just like cars, and vice versa. Once in a while, we need to be checked up on—much like the routine periodic maintenance of cars. Every so often, we need to be “fixed,” and so do cars.
While going through the entire APE process, I also thought that there are still many who don’t go out and do the necessary preventive maintenance on their cars. It’s like a physical exam; you check to see if everything’s in great shape, so you can also detect if there’s anything wrong. This way, you can do something about it before it becomes a pain in the butt.So go check your online repair manuals now and see when your ride is due for its next “checkup.” Your precious ride needs that kind of care and attention so that you can always ensure that it is at its best condition. You’ll enjoy it more if you take care of it properly.
DIY Saturday: Tire Pressure Check
Last Saturday it was oil change. Today, we’ll be talking about how to check the pressure of the tires in your vehicle.
Tire pressure affects a lot of things in your drive. The correct pressure does not only improve the lifespan of the tires (by not wearing abnormally) but also affects the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. Improperly inflated tires need more energy to rotate, so they use up a lot more power. As a result, your fuel is consumed fast.
Fortunately, checking your tire pressure and keeping it at the correct level is easy. All you need to get an accurate reading is the correct tire pressure gauge, a device that is designed for reading tire pressure.
Precaution:
- The tires should be cool (the car should not have been driven for 2km or more prior to the process).
Process:
- Check for the right tire pressure by looking at the sidewall of each tire, at the driver’s side door, or in your vehicle manual.
- Check the valve on the tire and remove its cap.
- Press the gauge into the valve and look at the reading. Pay attention to the sound of hissing air as this may indicate that the connection has leaks. Once you ensure that the connection is secure, that’s the time you check the data.
- If the reading is correct, replace the cap on the valve. If not, fill with air until the right level is achieved.
- Do this in all four tires, and even in your spare tire.
Tire pressure check is a simple process, but it can help a lot in keeping your vehicle tires in good shape. Make it a habit to check the pressure in your vehicle tires every now and then, especially before you go on a long travel.
Friday’s Advice: How to Help Your Mechanic in Making a Diagnosis
When you bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop because of a problem, the first step to solving that problem would be to determine its cause. And, this is where diagnosis comes in. The mechanic will have to look at all the symptoms of the problem until it can pinpoint its origin. After this, only then can a solution be arrived at.
Diagnosis can be time-consuming. But, as a vehicle owner, you can often help your mechanic during this stage of the repair. By doing so, you reduce the time it will take before you can arrive at a solution.
Now, how can you help your mechanic in diagnosing the problem of your vehicle?
- If you notice the problem, pay attention to the symptoms. Use your senses to do this. Try to hear any abnormal sound originating from the area where the problem seems to be. Pay attention to weird smells such as burning. Feel any vibrations coming from your vehicle systems. Plus, do some visual inspection to see if there’s any leak somewhere. By telling your mechanic any of your observations, he’ll be able to correlate that fact to his knowledge about automotive problems.
- If the problem is hard to explain, you can show the problem to your mechanic instead. This is what mechanics called as recreating the problem. You can go on a drive and recreate what you’ve done when the problem occurs (you were navigating a sharp turn, for instance).
Helping your mechanic in the diagnosis of a problem will also be like helping yourself. You will not only shorten the time it will take for the problem to be solved but you will also reduce chances of a misdiagnosis. Besides, participating in the diagnostic process will help you know more about your vehicle.
Much Ado about Wiring Diagrams
We mentioned in one post that one of the things you should look for in a good online auto repair manual is the presence of wiring diagrams. This is apart from your standard how-to content, general info, definitions, procedures, illustrations and videos. Why are wiring diagrams such a necessary component of online car repair manuals?
Wiring diagrams are really very useful when you’re dealing with electrical problems on your vehicle. Given the nature of complex automotive systems in this day and age, you’ll definitely encounter some electrical issues sooner rather than later. Complex electrical systems and circuits require a thorough and in-depth resource, and that’s where the electrical diagrams come in.
That is also why you need to get a reliable online auto repair manual service. Better opt for those complete tear-down and rebuild services so you are sure that you really get vehicle-specific information that is 100-percent accurate. You don’t want to mix up your ride’s electrical wiring now, do you?
Anyway, the bottom line is that wiring diagrams are important even if they may not seem like such a deal-breaker at the start. You’ll never know when you need to perform some wiring or rewiring tasks on your ride. The best thing to do would be to stay prepared in that event.
Wiring diagrams are really very useful when you’re dealing with electrical problems on your vehicle. Given the nature of complex automotive systems in this day and age, you’ll definitely encounter some electrical issues sooner rather than later. Complex electrical systems and circuits require a thorough and in-depth resource, and that’s where the electrical diagrams come in.
That is also why you need to get a reliable online auto repair manual service. Better opt for those complete tear-down and rebuild services so you are sure that you really get vehicle-specific information that is 100-percent accurate. You don’t want to mix up your ride’s electrical wiring now, do you?
Anyway, the bottom line is that wiring diagrams are important even if they may not seem like such a deal-breaker at the start. You’ll never know when you need to perform some wiring or rewiring tasks on your ride. The best thing to do would be to stay prepared in that event.
Saying No to a Mechanic’s or a Shop’s Recommendations
Mechanics are there to fix your car, but they’re also there to earn money. So, it’s not surprising that some of them go to the extent of offering or suggesting extra services every time you bring in your car for a particular repair or replacement (check out my previous post about common add-ons that some shops insist).
However, you can always say no to the suggestion of the auto repair shop. After all, it’s your money that will be spent on the repair, so you have the right to decide on which to use it. But, how do you know whether the suggested add-on or service of a shop is valid or if the mechanic you have talked to is only upselling?
- Familiarize with your vehicle manual. Your manual consists of all the information that you need to know about your car. It lists all the maintenance intervals for given parts, as well as the interval for performing such services as a tune-up. If you are familiar with your vehicle manual, you’ll know when it’s really time to perform a certain service on your car, and you can easily argue with your mechanic when he suggests something that is not in accordance with your manual.
- Take note of the last time when a service or replacement has been performed in your car. This will help you decide whether the tune-up that the mechanic is offering is already needed, or if the replacement filter suggested by the technician will actually be helpful.
- Don’t trust anything you do not understand. Is a mechanic suggesting that you purchase a cleaner for a specific part of your vehicle? If you’ve had your vehicle with you for many years and you’ve never had to use that cleaner, chances are you don’t actually need it. If you want to consider the offer, be sure that it is clear with you what that is for before you agree to anything and shell out cash.
Online Repair Manual Reviews: Autodata Online
We’re going on a roll early this 2011, and now we’re bringing you another online car repair manual review. Taking center stage today is Autodata Online (http://www.autodata.ltd.uk/online.asp)
These are the minimum system requirements you’ll need to have on your laptop or personal computer: a broadband internet connection, a Firefox 3 or Internet Explorer 7/8 web browser, and a 1024x768 minimum screen resolution. Bare minimum, in this day and age, so most people will be able to use it.
Just how thorough is the information on Autodata Online? Thorough enough that pirated copies are being sold, and Autodata itself is cracking down on these unauthorized sellers. The service provides a wide range of manuals for a variety of applications, and users can easily select their car from the list. Autodata also has specialized manuals that deal specifically with timing belts, chains and even wheel alignment, aside from motorcycle data, diagnostic trouble codes and technical data.
The technical information you can find in each manual is sourced directly from the manufacturers. Autodata uses over 30 years of experience as well as its close relationship with automakers to come up with the most accurate collections of data possible. Subscribers don’t have to worry about updates as well, because Autodata updates its manuals twice a year.
Aside from the comprehensive data available, Autodata Online’s information is presented in a concise and easy to understand manner. There are also supplementary information such as illustrations and diagrams, which definitely help in making the information more accessible and understandable.
Here’s one more added benefit, although it is only applicable to subscribers from the United Kingdom: Vehicle Registration Look Up. It’s something that UK subscribers can look forward to in the coming months.
If you’re in the market for an online repair manual, you won’t be disappointed with Autodata Online—especially if you live in the UK.
Just how thorough is the information on Autodata Online? Thorough enough that pirated copies are being sold, and Autodata itself is cracking down on these unauthorized sellers. The service provides a wide range of manuals for a variety of applications, and users can easily select their car from the list. Autodata also has specialized manuals that deal specifically with timing belts, chains and even wheel alignment, aside from motorcycle data, diagnostic trouble codes and technical data.
The technical information you can find in each manual is sourced directly from the manufacturers. Autodata uses over 30 years of experience as well as its close relationship with automakers to come up with the most accurate collections of data possible. Subscribers don’t have to worry about updates as well, because Autodata updates its manuals twice a year.
Aside from the comprehensive data available, Autodata Online’s information is presented in a concise and easy to understand manner. There are also supplementary information such as illustrations and diagrams, which definitely help in making the information more accessible and understandable.
Here’s one more added benefit, although it is only applicable to subscribers from the United Kingdom: Vehicle Registration Look Up. It’s something that UK subscribers can look forward to in the coming months.
If you’re in the market for an online repair manual, you won’t be disappointed with Autodata Online—especially if you live in the UK.
Money Talk with Your Mechanic
Do you know how to discuss money and payments with your mechanic without alerting him and giving him any opportunity to rip you off? Sure, there are many honest mechanics out there, but there are also unscrupulous ones looking for every opportunity to rip you off. And if you’re not yet so sure of your mechanic, you need to be careful when it comes to discussing anything money related.
Your attitude towards money may just be the needed invitation of your mechanic to perform his deceiving tricks on you. So, which type of money attitude is so appealing to a mechanic?The first, most appealing money attitude for a mechanic is the “I could care less” attitude. When it comes to auto repairs, this attitude is evident among people who would say things like “I don’t care how it costs—just fix my car” or something like “Do everything that needs to be done to fix the problem.” These statements show a mechanic that you don’t care how much you spend and that you are capable of paying a lot, and this is one huge invitation for a rip-off.
Another attitude would be the opposite extreme of this, the so-called “I want the cheapest” attitude. Statements like “I want the cheapest part that you have” or “What’s the cheapest way to do this?” will tell a mechanic that you’re not so concerned about the quality of the part to be installed or the work to be done as long as it’s cheap. And, this could lead to the use of substandard components or subpar services.
Although we all want to get the cheapest rate, the way to talk to your mechanic about money is to express that you want the best service at a reasonable rate. Talk confidently and be honest about your budget. Talk openly about the options. This way, your mechanic will see you as a responsible vehicle owner and will most likely treat you with respect.
Types of Online Repair Manuals Post Roundup
Part 1: Generic Manuals | Part 2: Generic Manuals | Part 3: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 4: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 5: Diagnostic Manuals | Part 6: Diagnostic Manuals | Part 7: Maintenance Manuals | Part 8: Maintenance Manuals
Whew! We're finally done with that series on the types of online auto repair manuals. We're going to just have an entry that rounds up all of the posts from that series so you can have a convenient resource whenever you're confused about which particular type to get.
The bottom line to our long discussion is that there's really no clear-cut online car repair manual that will provide every individual's needs and that has all the answers you're looking for. You first have to know which type of information you require—and that is usually dependent on your task at hand or the issue you're encountering with your vehicle. That's when you will be able to decide which online vehicle repair manual to purchase. With all the available options you can find online, it's important to really identify the one type that's perfect for your needs before you go spending your hard-earned cash.
Now that that's out of the way, we'll now proceed to look for more news and updates about online repair manuals. We've got a lot more in store for you in this blog, so make sure you check back for more information, tips and tricks, updates and other stuff all about online auto repair manuals, right here at Repair Manuals Online!
Whew! We're finally done with that series on the types of online auto repair manuals. We're going to just have an entry that rounds up all of the posts from that series so you can have a convenient resource whenever you're confused about which particular type to get.
The bottom line to our long discussion is that there's really no clear-cut online car repair manual that will provide every individual's needs and that has all the answers you're looking for. You first have to know which type of information you require—and that is usually dependent on your task at hand or the issue you're encountering with your vehicle. That's when you will be able to decide which online vehicle repair manual to purchase. With all the available options you can find online, it's important to really identify the one type that's perfect for your needs before you go spending your hard-earned cash.
Now that that's out of the way, we'll now proceed to look for more news and updates about online repair manuals. We've got a lot more in store for you in this blog, so make sure you check back for more information, tips and tricks, updates and other stuff all about online auto repair manuals, right here at Repair Manuals Online!
Auto Repair Shop Quota: What Is This All About?
Are you aware of the work policies in your trusted auto repair shop? Have you heard of such things as quotas from your mechanic? Chances are, you haven’t. Things like this are not openly discussed in these shops.
The fact is, most shops implement a quota or incentive system that pays their mechanics according to the number of hours billed. What does this mean? The more the number of hours billed from customers (meaning, higher expense), the higher the fee to the mechanic. Most mechanics have to meet a daily or weekly quota, the failure of which can lead to their termination.
And what is the implication of this? Well, this policy forces mechanics to prioritize the quantity of work accepted over the quality o f work performed. Because mechanics have to meet a quota, they need to have more customers. As a result, it pushes them to rush their work and to focus less on the efficiency of the task accomplished.
Although you may think that this is unintentional on the part of the mechanic, this is still a form of rip-off. This is one of the reasons mechanics resort to offering services that a car doesn’t really need, or billing you for a service or job that they will not actually perform.
This practice often happens in flat rate auto repair shops. And, it leaves a lot of space for questioning and suspicion. If there’s any way you can find whether your trusted shop is a flat rate shop, do it. And when you find that it is, be wary and be observant about possible practices that you may not know are already ripping you off.
To be or not to be ripped off—sometimes, you can put the decision in your hands. By being cautious and observant, you eliminate the chances of being deceived.
Types of Online Repair Manuals part 8
Part 1: Generic Manuals | Part 2: Generic Manuals | Part 3: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 4: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 5: Diagnostic Manuals | Part 6: Diagnostic Manuals | Part 7: Maintenance Manuals
One final pit stop and we're done with our series on types of online automotive repair manuals! Last time out, we discussed all about maintenance and service manuals—these are the ones you'll need to stay on top of the various maintenance tasks you'll need to do on your precious vehicle, and these are the ones you'll need to know when you need to perform those aforementioned tasks. With so many components and with parts and systems becoming more and more complex and complicated, sometimes you simply need to have a handy maintenance manual that'll keep you on track and on schedule.
You'll be able to find a specific maintenance manual or service manual for practically all vehicle makes and models. Just remember to use the age-old trick of filtering your search terms. Try adding your ride's make and model info to the search string to find results that cater to exactly what you need.
Once you have your new maintenance manual, don't just let it go to waste. Take the time to fire up your personal computer and access the manual, so that you'll be aware of upcoming servicing tasks that are in the schedule. It's important to note these things for obvious reasons, but of course we can't prevent forgetting a few tasks every once in a while. Checking your manual regularly will help you avoid missing out on important tasks.
Aaaaaaand that's a wrap! We hope you enjoyed the past several posts about the types of online auto repair manuals avialable. At the very least we hope, that you learned a few things here and there, and that you'll be able to apply these things once you decide to finally get that online auto repair manual for your ride. The last part will be a recap and roundup of all the posts so you'll just have to consult one page to view them all.
One final pit stop and we're done with our series on types of online automotive repair manuals! Last time out, we discussed all about maintenance and service manuals—these are the ones you'll need to stay on top of the various maintenance tasks you'll need to do on your precious vehicle, and these are the ones you'll need to know when you need to perform those aforementioned tasks. With so many components and with parts and systems becoming more and more complex and complicated, sometimes you simply need to have a handy maintenance manual that'll keep you on track and on schedule.
You'll be able to find a specific maintenance manual or service manual for practically all vehicle makes and models. Just remember to use the age-old trick of filtering your search terms. Try adding your ride's make and model info to the search string to find results that cater to exactly what you need.
Once you have your new maintenance manual, don't just let it go to waste. Take the time to fire up your personal computer and access the manual, so that you'll be aware of upcoming servicing tasks that are in the schedule. It's important to note these things for obvious reasons, but of course we can't prevent forgetting a few tasks every once in a while. Checking your manual regularly will help you avoid missing out on important tasks.
Aaaaaaand that's a wrap! We hope you enjoyed the past several posts about the types of online auto repair manuals avialable. At the very least we hope, that you learned a few things here and there, and that you'll be able to apply these things once you decide to finally get that online auto repair manual for your ride. The last part will be a recap and roundup of all the posts so you'll just have to consult one page to view them all.
DIY Saturday: Doing an Oil Change
An oil change is probably the simplest automotive task that you can do on your own - no need to take your chances bringing your vehicle to a shop and probably getting ripped off.
Oil change involves three major processes, and it only requires simple tools (wrench, container for catching oil, and funnel). Shall we start?
Precautions before starting:
1. Park your vehicle in a flat and solid surface and be sure that it’s stable.
2. Don’t let the oil spill. Have the container ready to catch the old oil that you’ll drain.
3. Be sure that the engine is cold when you do the task.
4. You’ll need a new oil filter to replace the old one.
1: Drain the old oil.
· Find the oil pan and its plug underneath your car. Open it to allow the old oil to drain. Just be sure you have the container ready to catch the oil.
· Once all the old oil has drained, replace the plug and tighten to the correct torque specs.
2. Replace the oil filter.
· Remove the filter (often accessed from underneath your vehicle, depending on car make and model) using a wrench and be careful not to spill the oil inside it.
· Place the new oil filter (apply oil on the filter’s gasket) and fill it with oil – not too full.
3. Fill your engine with oil.
· Use the funnel when filling up to avoid spill.
· Check your manual to determine the amount of oil that your engine needs. Don’t fill it up to full capacity. After filling up, measure the oil level using a dipstick and add oil as necessary.
Doing your own oil change is not only cost saving, it’s also empowering to a vehicle owner. So if you’re someone who’s planning to start doing some of the tasks required in your vehicle so that you can avoid instances of having to bring your ride to a shop, an oil change is a good way to start.
Types of Online Repair Manuals part 7
Part 1: Generic Manuals | Part 2: Generic Manuals | Part 3: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 4: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 5: Diagnostic Manuals | Part 6: Diagnostic Manuals
We're down to the homestretch for this series of posts about the types online auto repair manuals you'll find on the Web. We've tackled three types so far: generic online repair manuals, vehicle-specific online car repair manuals, and diagnostic and troubleshooting guides. The last leg of our series is all about maintenance manuals.
Maintenance and servicing manuals are perhaps as important as standard vehicle-specific resources because they help vehicle owners keep in step of the various maintenance schedules and procedures. Remember what they say—an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. When dealing with cars, of course, this is indeed true.
Nothing is more satisfying than driving a well-maintained ride. Regular servicing and maintenance will lead to smooth drives, and you'll really know the difference once you're behind the wheel of a car with all its systems in excellent condition. To be able to do so, you'll need to enlist the help of a reliable maintenance manual.
Even though getting a maintenance manual that focuses on your ride's make and model, you'll do just fine with one that has a more generic approach. Most vehicle systems and even a lot of automotive parts and components operate on the same principle, so there will be a lot of information that you can use even if they don't refer to a specific car model or manufacturer from a particular production year. If you want a more detailed or specific result, though, you'll again need to resort to filtering your search.
That's about all the time we have for today. We'll continue talking about online auto repair manuals in tomorrow's entry. In our next post, we'll be giving our last words on maintenance and servicing manuals, and after that we'll also be wrapping up the entire types of online repair manuals series just for your convenience. Wait for it!
Friday’s Advice: Why Being Honest With Your Mechanic Pays
So, you have a mechanic that you always turn to whenever you encounter problems with your vehicle. But, there are some things that you think you can’t tell your mechanic because of certain reasons.
Most vehicle owners get into this kind of situation once in a while. For instance, some people would feel afraid telling their mechanic just what the entire scope of the problem is, due to the fear that their mechanic will charge them higher. Others are ashamed to admit that they forgot to perform the needed maintenance, leading to the problem, or that they tried to improvise a fix for a vehicle problem that they experienced and the improvised fix failed. Or even more, that they brought the car to another repair shop.
Yes, admitting these things to your mechanic may have repercussions. You may have to pay higher because of a problem that you caused, or a tension may develop between you and your mechanic when you tell him you brought it to another shop or entrusted it to another specialist. But, in the end, being honest is still the best option. Why?
It is in honesty from which you will be able to establish a good relationship with your mechanic. For one, you want your mechanic to be honest with you, so you need to be honest with him as well. Besides, no matter how much you keep something from your mechanic, he is sure to find out later on. Being honest about a problem will save more time on diagnosis, and will even reduce the possibility of misdiagnosis, therefore saving you on unnecessary costs.
And, if you want your mechanic to take you seriously when you get his advice about vehicle issues in the future, you need to show him that you’re being responsible in maintaining your car – being honest is one way to do that.
Types of Online Repair Manuals part 6
Part 1: Generic Manuals | Part 2: Generic Manuals | Part 3: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 4: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 5: Diagnostic Manuals
Hey there! So you're still with us for our Types of Online Repair Manuals series, huh? Good for you! Okay, so we've started on diagnostic manuals in the last post, and I'm sure you now know how important it is to have the proper diagnostic and troubleshooting tools at the ready each time you work on your precious ride.
When you're looking for online auto repair manuals that are specifically geared for diagnosis and troubleshooting, you can find better results when you customize your search using your vehicle's information—that is, include the year, make and model details of your car each time you look for an online diagnostic manual using Google or your preferred search engine.
You can also tailor-fit the search depending on the particular area on your ride that you think is affected. Some diagnostic manuals are divided into systems and components, so you might find a diagnostic aid if, for example, your ride is suffering from sloppy starts.
Of course, sometimes it would be much easier if you just head on over to web sites like AutoMD (www.automd.com) and use those sites' online diagnostic tools. However, if you can't find your vehicle in their listing or if your symptoms aren't yielding precise results, you might want to do your own troubleshooting—aided by your trusty online auto repair manuals.
All right, now that we've got diagnostic and troubleshooting manuals covered, it's time we headed on to the next topic. Our last topic (but definitely not the least!) revolves around maintenance manuals, so if your vehicle is up for servicing sometime soon, you've caught up with us at the right time. Don't forget to check back tomorrow for another round of information, only here at your trusted resource for anything and everything about online auto repair manuals!
Hey there! So you're still with us for our Types of Online Repair Manuals series, huh? Good for you! Okay, so we've started on diagnostic manuals in the last post, and I'm sure you now know how important it is to have the proper diagnostic and troubleshooting tools at the ready each time you work on your precious ride.
When you're looking for online auto repair manuals that are specifically geared for diagnosis and troubleshooting, you can find better results when you customize your search using your vehicle's information—that is, include the year, make and model details of your car each time you look for an online diagnostic manual using Google or your preferred search engine.
You can also tailor-fit the search depending on the particular area on your ride that you think is affected. Some diagnostic manuals are divided into systems and components, so you might find a diagnostic aid if, for example, your ride is suffering from sloppy starts.
Of course, sometimes it would be much easier if you just head on over to web sites like AutoMD (www.automd.com) and use those sites' online diagnostic tools. However, if you can't find your vehicle in their listing or if your symptoms aren't yielding precise results, you might want to do your own troubleshooting—aided by your trusty online auto repair manuals.
All right, now that we've got diagnostic and troubleshooting manuals covered, it's time we headed on to the next topic. Our last topic (but definitely not the least!) revolves around maintenance manuals, so if your vehicle is up for servicing sometime soon, you've caught up with us at the right time. Don't forget to check back tomorrow for another round of information, only here at your trusted resource for anything and everything about online auto repair manuals!
The Benefits of a Trusted Mechanic
While we’ll find many stories of auto repair shop or mechanic horrors, accounts from people who have been ripped off, there are also plenty of positive stories about good shops. There are people who take pride in their mechanics and in their skills and work attitude. A good mechanic can be a great automotive resource, plus a good friend.
The following are some other benefits that a trusted mechanic can give you:
- Cost savings. You can be sure that a trusted mechanic won’t rip you off. So, you won’t need to spend a lot of money on unnecessary repairs and replacement parts. Everything you spend will be used on tasks and parts that your car actually needs. Therefore, you know you can save a lot.
- Proper maintenance. A good and trusted mechanic truly cares about you and your car, not just about profit. So, you can trust him to help you in keeping your vehicle in tiptop condition, providing valid advice when it comes to correct service interval, as well as proper means to maintain your car and avoid frequent shop services. So, your car will work and last for a long time.
- Free advice. Are you planning to dump your existing vehicle and get a new one but you’re not sure which ride to go for? Why don’t you ask your mechanic? He can tell you which is best, which requires less maintenance, and which will meet your needs.
A trusted mechanic can be a good friend and a good adviser when it comes to all things car-related. Aside from their practical benefits, they can provide you with all the support you need in maintaining your car. They can also open you up to the world of automobiles (in case you’re not mechanically inclined). So, it pays a lot to find a good mechanic.
Types of Online Repair Manuals part 5
Part 1: Generic Manuals | Part 2: Generic Manuals | Part 3: Vehicle-specific Manuals | Part 4: Vehicle-specific Manuals
Two down, a couple more to go. Welcome back to our Online Auto Repair Manual types series here at Repair Manuals Online! We're going strong now at part 5, and we've got an exciting topic coming right up. On this post, we'll be tackling another type of online car repair manual: the diagnostic manual.
You may be wondering what's so special about online diagnostic manuals. After all, some of the more thorough online auto repair manuals already come with their own diagnostic tools and troubleshooting guidelines.
Well, specializations exist for a reason. Diagnostic manuals cater to the needs of many a DIY auto mechanic. As vehicle components and systems become more and more complex, so does finding out what's wrong with them. You'll need to know exactly what part on your vehicle is affected based on the symptoms that you observe. If you've watched those old G.I. Joe cartoons from a decade or two ago, you'll see that knowing really is half the battle.
When you have the information needed to know what's really bothering your car, then you can fix the source of the problem. If you're unsure of the cause, you can end up causing bigger damage, and you'll have wasted a considerable amount of time, money and effort on a wild goose chase. That's where diagnostic manuals come in.
These online auto repair manuals that are specifically geared for diagnosis will ensure that you have the right troubleshooting methods and that you can get the proper results when it comes to identifying the root of your vehicle's problems.
We've got another post on diagnostic manuals tomorrow, then we'll move to the next online vehicle repair manual type on our list. Make sure you get back to us for more information regarding the types of online auto repair manuals available to DIY mechanics.
Two down, a couple more to go. Welcome back to our Online Auto Repair Manual types series here at Repair Manuals Online! We're going strong now at part 5, and we've got an exciting topic coming right up. On this post, we'll be tackling another type of online car repair manual: the diagnostic manual.
You may be wondering what's so special about online diagnostic manuals. After all, some of the more thorough online auto repair manuals already come with their own diagnostic tools and troubleshooting guidelines.
Well, specializations exist for a reason. Diagnostic manuals cater to the needs of many a DIY auto mechanic. As vehicle components and systems become more and more complex, so does finding out what's wrong with them. You'll need to know exactly what part on your vehicle is affected based on the symptoms that you observe. If you've watched those old G.I. Joe cartoons from a decade or two ago, you'll see that knowing really is half the battle.
When you have the information needed to know what's really bothering your car, then you can fix the source of the problem. If you're unsure of the cause, you can end up causing bigger damage, and you'll have wasted a considerable amount of time, money and effort on a wild goose chase. That's where diagnostic manuals come in.
These online auto repair manuals that are specifically geared for diagnosis will ensure that you have the right troubleshooting methods and that you can get the proper results when it comes to identifying the root of your vehicle's problems.
We've got another post on diagnostic manuals tomorrow, then we'll move to the next online vehicle repair manual type on our list. Make sure you get back to us for more information regarding the types of online auto repair manuals available to DIY mechanics.
How to Spot a Good Auto Repair Shop
Yesterday’s post was about the two characteristics of a good auto repair shop. But, you know that it’s not easy to see these two characteristics from your first encounter with the shop. Therefore, when dealing with a shop, you need to have some sort of third eye when it comes to detecting the good one. How do you do these? Here are three tips:
Problem-centric. A good shop focuses only on the problem and the issue that you’re having with your vehicle. You need to watch out against a shop that offers a lot of extras just a few moments after you’ve brought your car in. If the shop begins to offer what seems like a lot of services other than what you have brought the car for, beware. A good shop will deal with the problem first, and then suggest additional services, if at all, once the main issue has been addressed.
Willing to discuss the problem with you. A good shop will be open about discussing the problem with you in full detail, exploring all options and possibilities to arrive at a correct solution and diagnosis. If the shop seems to be hiding something, is hesitant to completely talk about the problem with you, or is deviating your attention from the main issue, that could indicate something wrong.
One that you trust. No matter how efficient you think the shop is, or no matter how much it exhibits the qualities of a good shop, if you can’t find yourself to trust it, find another shop. You need to feel at peace and at ease with the shop and its personnel. You need to be able to completely entrust your vehicle with the shop. If you leave your car to the shop and you’re worried the whole time your car was there – that’s not good.
Types of Online Repair Manuals part 4
Part 1: Generic Manuals | Part 2: Generic Manuals | Part 3: Vehicle-specific Manuals
In the previous post, we've talked about those vehicle-specific manuals that are particularly suited for those who seek in-depth information about particular vehicle makes and models. The devil is in the details, as they say—and DIY auto repair is all about details. After all, you won't want to be removing a certain component when you're supposed to be working on another. That's only going to mess up your ride even more.
Of course, this type of online repair manual isn't limited to just those tried-and-true manual books that come with gadgets, computers and vehicles. You can also get vehicle-specific information from online documents and articles from websites. All you need to do is to filter your search so that you can tailor-fit your Google search results to match your ride's year, make and model information.
Once you have your search results, you can filter them further by looking for specific types of file formats. Manuals and similar documents can be in Adobe document format (.pdf) or text format (.txt). Some are even zipped to be compressed (.zip, .rar). You can also refine your search by limiting the search terms to include only the system or component that you need to work on for your next DIY endeavor.
Pro tip: Remember to have your computer's firewalls up to protect you from malicious files like trojans, viruses and malware when you download seemingly trustworthy documents and files from the Internet.
In the future, we'll go into more detail about vehicle-specific online auto repair manuals. In the meantime, we'll just head on over to the next type of online auto repair manual on our list. We'll be discussing diagnostic and troubleshooting tools in the next post, so watch out as our Types of Online Auto Repair Manuals series continues!
In the previous post, we've talked about those vehicle-specific manuals that are particularly suited for those who seek in-depth information about particular vehicle makes and models. The devil is in the details, as they say—and DIY auto repair is all about details. After all, you won't want to be removing a certain component when you're supposed to be working on another. That's only going to mess up your ride even more.
Of course, this type of online repair manual isn't limited to just those tried-and-true manual books that come with gadgets, computers and vehicles. You can also get vehicle-specific information from online documents and articles from websites. All you need to do is to filter your search so that you can tailor-fit your Google search results to match your ride's year, make and model information.
Once you have your search results, you can filter them further by looking for specific types of file formats. Manuals and similar documents can be in Adobe document format (.pdf) or text format (.txt). Some are even zipped to be compressed (.zip, .rar). You can also refine your search by limiting the search terms to include only the system or component that you need to work on for your next DIY endeavor.
Pro tip: Remember to have your computer's firewalls up to protect you from malicious files like trojans, viruses and malware when you download seemingly trustworthy documents and files from the Internet.
In the future, we'll go into more detail about vehicle-specific online auto repair manuals. In the meantime, we'll just head on over to the next type of online auto repair manual on our list. We'll be discussing diagnostic and troubleshooting tools in the next post, so watch out as our Types of Online Auto Repair Manuals series continues!
What’s A Good Auto Repair Shop?
The past year, we’ve been talking about repair rip-offs and fraudulent shops, plus secrets that auto repairs keep in order to rip off their customers. Well this year, let’s start with something good, something positive. Let’s give some form of commendation to auto repair shops that do their work well and mechanics that are honest with their clients. And let’s start this off by defining just what a good auto repair shop is.
As I have always stressed in my posts last year, not all auto repair shops are out to rip their customers off. There are some that are genuinely good, focused on the welfare of their customers. And this is what distinguishes a good shop from a bad one. While the latter is solely focused on revenues no matter what it takes, a good shop prioritizes service to its customers.
- It operates on honesty. A good auto repair shop will not keep anything from you. Whether it’s the fact that a certain component has just been misaligned and everything will be back to normal after a realignment is done, or the fact that they plan to use a rebuilt replacement instead of a brand new part, it will keep you fully informed of everything that’s done to your vehicle.
- It shows you all the options available. A good auto repair shop will recognize your right as the vehicle owner and keep you fully in charge of all that needs to be done in your vehicle. It will provide you with all possible means to solve your problem, with their recommendations, but will give you the right to decide in the end.
Types of Online Repair Manuals part 3
Part 1: Generic Manuals | Part 2: Generic Manuals
Welcome back to our series on the types of online auto repair manuals! We're now in part 3, and since we've spent the last two parts discussing just one type, perhaps it is high time that we moved on to the next one. Today, our focus will be on vehicle-specific manuals.
Vehicle-specific manuals are those that cover the technical data of a particular vehicle make and model from a particular model year. These online car repair manuals provide the right kind of info for those that are having issues specific to their car model.
Such online vehicle repair manuals provide a wealth of information when it comes to the particular model's common problems, along with diagnosis and troubleshooting of known issues. In addition to that, there may also be vehicle-specific solutions provided or suggested by the publisher itself.
What you can bank on when it comes to vehicle-specific manuals is that these provide information that is unique to your vehicle's make and model. That is, you'll be getting accurate data about your vehicle—from where this or that part is specifically located to which components are actually included in a certain system within your ride. This way, there won't be any confusion when you need to deal with a certain part or system, and you'll know that this part is really what you need to replace or fix.
We'll continue this discussion in the next part of our Types of Online Repair Manuals series of posts. We've got loads more in store for you, so make sure you check back in to learn more about the available online car repair manuals. Stay tuned for the discussion only here at Repair Manuals Online!
Welcome back to our series on the types of online auto repair manuals! We're now in part 3, and since we've spent the last two parts discussing just one type, perhaps it is high time that we moved on to the next one. Today, our focus will be on vehicle-specific manuals.
Vehicle-specific manuals are those that cover the technical data of a particular vehicle make and model from a particular model year. These online car repair manuals provide the right kind of info for those that are having issues specific to their car model.
Such online vehicle repair manuals provide a wealth of information when it comes to the particular model's common problems, along with diagnosis and troubleshooting of known issues. In addition to that, there may also be vehicle-specific solutions provided or suggested by the publisher itself.
What you can bank on when it comes to vehicle-specific manuals is that these provide information that is unique to your vehicle's make and model. That is, you'll be getting accurate data about your vehicle—from where this or that part is specifically located to which components are actually included in a certain system within your ride. This way, there won't be any confusion when you need to deal with a certain part or system, and you'll know that this part is really what you need to replace or fix.
We'll continue this discussion in the next part of our Types of Online Repair Manuals series of posts. We've got loads more in store for you, so make sure you check back in to learn more about the available online car repair manuals. Stay tuned for the discussion only here at Repair Manuals Online!
DIY Saturday: Three Basic Automotive Tasks that You Can DIY
It’s Saturday once again, and it’s time for our DIY post. This Saturday, let’s talk about three of the different basic car maintenance tasks that are easy to DIY, no need to go to the shop and pay the mechanic just to do them. Plus, of course, fewer instances of shop visit, less chances of getting ripped off.
In your vehicle, there are certain tasks that have to be performed periodically in order to keep certain parts and systems in great working order. And, frequent visit to mechanics for these jobs can mean more expenses. So, better do them yourselves, right?
- Oil change. Oil is used for lubricating metal engine parts in order to keep their operation smooth and prevent friction-caused problems. As the oil circulates around engine components, it collects particles that may clog metal parts. Plus, the changing temperatures in the engine make the oil lose its viscosity over time. So, it has to be flushed and replaced after a while. The flushing and filling process is simple and can be done by any average DIYer.
- Tire pressure check. Maintaining the correct pressure of your tires is crucial before your every drive, especially if you’re going on a long travel. Improper pressure on the tires can cause poor fuel efficiency and affect the speed by which your car moves. Plus, in certain instances, this can lead to accidents. Fortunately, checking your car’s tire pressure is easy with the use of an air pressure gauge.
- Wiper blade replacement. The wiper blades are important components that keep your windshield clean and clear, ensuring that you see the road ahead with full clarity. The blades are made of rubber, and they can deteriorate over time. But, replacing them is actually easy, so you should have no problem doing that.
The mentioned tasks are easy to do, and they’re a good project even for those who just want to start practicing DIY in their vehicles. Let’s start looking at the procedures involved in doing these maintenance tasks in the upcoming Saturdays.
Types of Online Repair Manuals part 2
So, we've already discussed one type of online auto repair manual in the previous post. However, before we move on to the other stuff, let's keep discussing about the first one we've already tackled. After all, general online repair manuals are like the DIY mechanic's ABCs. These manuals cover the big fundamentals and the basic principles and the common issues that one needs to know before tweaking or replacing anything in a vehicle.
I've already given my first experience with repair manuals, with a generic book called the Popular Mechanics Complete Car Care Guide. Such generic repair manuals may not be as in-depth or as thorough as many experts would prefer, but then again people do have to start somewhere. You can't just read up about something in Wikipedia and expect to be able to grasp the fundamental concepts needed to take the next step.
It's not a bad thing if you want to go the generic route first before going to vehicle-specific manuals, and these generic car care manuals do offer a lot of advantages. For example, the language is plainer than more advanced books, as these generic variants are really intended for beginners or novices. It's all about using layman's terms.
Another advantage is that such generic online repair manuals can be cheaper, as those vehicle-specific manuals took more time and effort in terms of research and study to know the ins and outs of a single vehicle year, make and model. If you want physical manuals, they are also more accessible compared to those that are geared for certain makes and models.
If you're already well-versed in the basics, you can most certainly use a vehicle-specific online auto repair manual. But we'll be discussing that at in a future post. Wait for it!
I've already given my first experience with repair manuals, with a generic book called the Popular Mechanics Complete Car Care Guide. Such generic repair manuals may not be as in-depth or as thorough as many experts would prefer, but then again people do have to start somewhere. You can't just read up about something in Wikipedia and expect to be able to grasp the fundamental concepts needed to take the next step.
It's not a bad thing if you want to go the generic route first before going to vehicle-specific manuals, and these generic car care manuals do offer a lot of advantages. For example, the language is plainer than more advanced books, as these generic variants are really intended for beginners or novices. It's all about using layman's terms.
Another advantage is that such generic online repair manuals can be cheaper, as those vehicle-specific manuals took more time and effort in terms of research and study to know the ins and outs of a single vehicle year, make and model. If you want physical manuals, they are also more accessible compared to those that are geared for certain makes and models.
If you're already well-versed in the basics, you can most certainly use a vehicle-specific online auto repair manual. But we'll be discussing that at in a future post. Wait for it!
Types of Online Repair Manuals
In order to get the kind of information you need, you'll also need to know the types of available online car repair manuals. Everything will depend on the problem—whether you'll be looking for a generic manual, a vehicle-specific manual, a diagnostic guide, or a maintenance or service manual.
The first thing we'll be discussing is the initial type on our list: the generic manual, or the general online auto repair manual. These are fairly common types, and you might not even need to buy anything. General repair manuals can also be bought off the shelves of leading bookstores in your area. Still, our focus here is on those car repair manuals found online, which offer not only convenience but a paperless resource that is accessible anytime you have your computer on (with matching Internet connection, of course).
You'll be able to find generic repair manuals online that are basically sorted by the make or by automaker. That's because car manufacturers often have typical things to look out for across a range of vehicle models. In the same vein, certain manufacturing peculiarities or trademarks will have matching issues on multiple models within their product line.
Additionally, there are some online repair manual publishers who really make it a point to focus on certain automakers (depending on demand, most probably) so there really would be a wealth of information on a particular manufacturer (say, Toyota) than others, and this info would be better suited for your vehicle should you own one from the aforementioned automaker.
That's about it for now. We'll discuss the other types of online auto repair manuals as we go along, so watch out for those. Once we've completed the rundown of online repair manual types, we'll round it all up so you can access the articles on one convenient post.
The first thing we'll be discussing is the initial type on our list: the generic manual, or the general online auto repair manual. These are fairly common types, and you might not even need to buy anything. General repair manuals can also be bought off the shelves of leading bookstores in your area. Still, our focus here is on those car repair manuals found online, which offer not only convenience but a paperless resource that is accessible anytime you have your computer on (with matching Internet connection, of course).
You'll be able to find generic repair manuals online that are basically sorted by the make or by automaker. That's because car manufacturers often have typical things to look out for across a range of vehicle models. In the same vein, certain manufacturing peculiarities or trademarks will have matching issues on multiple models within their product line.
Additionally, there are some online repair manual publishers who really make it a point to focus on certain automakers (depending on demand, most probably) so there really would be a wealth of information on a particular manufacturer (say, Toyota) than others, and this info would be better suited for your vehicle should you own one from the aforementioned automaker.
That's about it for now. We'll discuss the other types of online auto repair manuals as we go along, so watch out for those. Once we've completed the rundown of online repair manual types, we'll round it all up so you can access the articles on one convenient post.
Online Repair Manual Reviews: RepairManual.com
Let’s get down to business as we start this new year. Back in December, we promised to bring you more news, information and reviews about the various online repair manuals available to the vehicle enthusiast and DIY mechanic. Our first review of the year is of repairmanual.com, a site that aggregates a bunch of online repair manuals that you can order.
It’s actually more of a searchable database rather than a single online repair manual service. For example, if you go to the menus, you can select the automobiles link and you’ll be directed to an alphabetical list of vehicle makes. Clicking a car manufacturer link will then lead you to a list of that manufacturer’s models. Clicking a model finally gets you to a list of different online repair manuals that you can purchase for that particular model.
It’s a pretty good listing, actually. Most vehicle makes and models are covered, and there are options from a number of online car repair manual service providers. Some model years even go as far back as the 60s, so you can find even some rare stuff and books that are hard to find. You can clearly see that there is an effort to make the collection as comprehensive as it can be.
What the site could use is a bit more description about the manuals on the results page, so viewers won’t have to make another click just to access the summaries. Another thing is that the website doesn’t really do anything to look like a modern e-commerce website. It looks like one of those sites built during the Geocities days of the Internet. Even then, the entire effort is solid and you get what you need out of the site. After all, it’s the content that counts.
If you want a no-frills and hassle-free way to order a online repair manual for your ride, check out RepairManual.com and see if they list what you need. Whether you’re looking for manuals about cars, vans, ATVs, bikes and even snowmobiles, this is one of the best places to check first.
It’s actually more of a searchable database rather than a single online repair manual service. For example, if you go to the menus, you can select the automobiles link and you’ll be directed to an alphabetical list of vehicle makes. Clicking a car manufacturer link will then lead you to a list of that manufacturer’s models. Clicking a model finally gets you to a list of different online repair manuals that you can purchase for that particular model.
It’s a pretty good listing, actually. Most vehicle makes and models are covered, and there are options from a number of online car repair manual service providers. Some model years even go as far back as the 60s, so you can find even some rare stuff and books that are hard to find. You can clearly see that there is an effort to make the collection as comprehensive as it can be.What the site could use is a bit more description about the manuals on the results page, so viewers won’t have to make another click just to access the summaries. Another thing is that the website doesn’t really do anything to look like a modern e-commerce website. It looks like one of those sites built during the Geocities days of the Internet. Even then, the entire effort is solid and you get what you need out of the site. After all, it’s the content that counts.
If you want a no-frills and hassle-free way to order a online repair manual for your ride, check out RepairManual.com and see if they list what you need. Whether you’re looking for manuals about cars, vans, ATVs, bikes and even snowmobiles, this is one of the best places to check first.
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