Introduction (Auto Repair)

For many people, getting a driver’s license is an event that runs second only to getting a diploma or a marriage license. We study, practice, and take the test in a state of high anticipation that’s marred only by the fear of failing and being “grounded” forever. Yet most of us succeed in passing and hop happily into our cars, headed for the freedom of the open road. Unfortunately, most of us don’t know the first thing about the machines we’re licensed to drive — and this can turn a ticket to freedom into a ticket to trouble.
I’m not necessarily talking about physical danger. State motor vehicle bureaus have made fairly sure that, before we can get a driver’s license, we know how to drive defensively and can handle a car under poor driving conditions. What I’m referring to is the kind of trouble that comes from depending on other people to care for and repair our vehicles. If you’re like most people, you probably tend to drive around until something goes wrong and then incur the expense of replacing worn and burnt-out parts — or the entire engine — when low-cost, regular maintenance could have kept your wheels turning for a long time.