Popular Mechanics Car Owner's Companion

Book excerpt: We all depend on our cars--but can your car depend on you? In clear, easy-to-follow language and illustrations, Popular Mechanics teaches 101 basics every driver needs to know. And the handy format fits neatly in the glove compartment...so you can take it on the road to deal with any problem that comes along. With Popular Mechanics, car owners--even total novices who have trouble finding the hood release--can feel confident. Follow the advice of the magazine’s automotive experts to save money and reduce frustration, enjoy your driving experiences more than ever before, and handle emergencies with aplomb. Even better, years down the road, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how well your vehicle holds up. From breakdowns to maintenance matters, from locating a leak to dealing with accidents, everything you need to know about keeping your automobile in tip-top shape receives detailed, illustrated attention. The instructions begin with such simple maneuvers as opening the hood; proceed to such common problems as flat tires, stall-outs, funny noises, and bad smells; and include hints for driving in difficult conditions. There’s even a car-care log for keeping track of crucial data: the engine and tire size, oil filter number, cooling system capacity, and maintenance and repair records. It’s a must for all drivers who take pride in their cars and want to take their know-how on the road. Bob Freudenberger is an automotive writer, editor, and photographer who has won many awards for both editorial and technical excellence. He has been a long-time contributor to Popular Mechanics, as well as to many automotive magazines.