Maybe you want to make sure that the car salesman doesn't take advantage of you when you go to the dealership, or maybe you want to become a skilled mechanic who will never have to pay someone else to repair the car. Either way, there are many resources available to learn about automobiles. Start by using the Internet to search blogs, forums, and tutorials. You can also go to a public library, take some mechanics classes, attend evening classes, or attend auto shows. When you're ready, buy an old car to fix it up and transform it into your new favorite transportation.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Use the Internet to Find Car Information
Step 1. Search YouTube for auto mechanic tutorials
YouTube is a great place to find detailed step-by-step videos on basic and complex auto repair topics. Look for videos that have the highest amounts of views and positive comments to make sure you get reliable information. Start by looking for beginner tutorials and then look for the other videos that interest you.
You can also search https://en.wikihow.com/Category:Automobiles-and-other-vehicles to find wikiHow articles on auto repair. Combine these how-to articles with YouTube videos for a more complete understanding of how to fix cars
Step 2. Search fan forums for particular brands or models
Many types of cars have enthusiastic fan communities. While this is especially true for older cars, some brands (like Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Ford, for example) also attract a large following. Googling something like "Wranglers fan forums" to find an online community that shares the same specific interests.
These forums are great places to ask questions about specific types of cars. Users are also likely to advertise events like car shows on fan forums
Step 3. Go to sites on the internet that provide car reviews and ratings
This is especially important if you are buying a new or used car. Internet sites like Kelley Blue Book can tell you the specific value of cars along with the most important features or problems the car has had in the past.
- If you want more information on a wide variety of cars, browse to read all about the types of makes, models and classes.
- If you want more information before you buy, look for cars in the class you're interested in (for example, a sport utility vehicle or SUV).
Method 2 of 3: Take Advantage of Other Resources
Step 1. Watch car-related TV shows
Why not learn while you entertain yourself? It starts with the BBC's Top Gear, which is available on Netflix. Alternatively, you can watch The Grand Tour on the Amazon Prime website. You can also try El Duo Mecánico on the Discovery channel or the Jewels on Wheels program.
These shows generally feature iconic and luxury cars. Seeing them is a fun way to expand your knowledge about cars that you don't see on the street every day
Step 2. Use the public library to order car books
Dust it off and renew that library card if you haven't used it in a while. Not only is the public library free, but it's a great place to explore and find books you didn't even know existed. If you are looking for a specific title, speak to the librarian. If the local branch does not have it, you can request it elsewhere.
- Be prepared to wait two to four weeks if you request a book from another library.
- The library likely also has a large collection of e-books available to check out. Talk to the librarian about setting up an online account to gain access to this collection.
Step 3. Attend car shows and other gatherings
Check the Internet to find auto shows and auto-related meetings in your area. If you're on a specific fan forum, ask users if they know of any to come. These fun events will connect you with other car enthusiasts who will be happy to answer any questions you have about cars.
Step 4. Take some courses at a local community college
Look for introductory courses for auto mechanics. Start by taking just one class to see if you like it. If you enjoy it and can budget for more classes, sign up for two next time. Not only will you meet other people to study and learn about automobiles with, you will also have access to trusted and experienced instructors.
Step 5. Visit an auto supply store and talk to the employees
Most of the employees in these types of stores have some basic or advanced knowledge of auto repair. They can also help you understand the pros and cons of different automotive products and tools.
- Ask questions when there are no other customers in the store and when the staff doesn't seem too busy.
- Be polite if employees tell you they don't have time to talk to you.
Method 3 of 3: Fix a Damaged Car
Step 1. Buy a cheap car with a few minor problems
Check the internet to find cheap used cars in the area. Calculate the maximum amount you are willing to pay for a car that you will essentially practice on and use that amount to guide you in your search. Try to stick to cars that are relatively close to where you live, as you may have to pay to have the car transported to your home. If possible, when you buy a car from a distance, load it on a trailer and tow it yourself. If you're not confident enough to do it, have someone else do it for you.
Don't choose a car with a lot of problems just because it's cheap. Instead, look for a car with problems that you can actually fix. If you are unsure of the severity of the problems, bring a friend who is more knowledgeable about automobiles to see with you
Step 2. Purchase an auto mechanic starter kit
Go to an auto supply store and ask a clerk for a good basic tool kit. If you want to shop online, enter "basic auto mechanic kit" into Google search to find some options.
The most basic tool sets can cost as little as $ 20. However, a more complete kit will probably cost around $ 100
Step 3. Find a car service manual online or at a dealer
The service manual is a comprehensive guide to repair instructions, it is not the small booklet that is normally included in the glove compartment. Generally, you can buy them at car dealers. You can also find used copies on internet sites like eBay.
This repair guide will provide you with specific instructions on how to repair the exact make and model you purchased
Step 4. Use YouTube videos to learn how to solve specific problems
It's so much easier to learn how to do things when you can see how each step unfolds. You may not be able to find a video of the exact car you purchased, but you can surely find tutorials on how to troubleshoot the damaged car.