Let's Talk Shop

I feel lucky that I've never had to deal with the headache of a major auto repair. The idea of taking my car in for anything other than the routine oil change and tire rotation fills me with anxiety. What do I know about cars except how to turn one on and fill it with gas? Zilch.

If my check engine light came on right now I would panic and then call the dealership. That's not a good thing. I need to read the owner's manual and familiarize myself with the meaning of all the indicator lights. Some problems have simple solutions that the owner can handle like filling the tires with more air while others will need an expert to resolve. Having a basic working knowledge of your vehicle can save you time, money and embarrassment. For instance, it helps to know whether you drive a Toyota Camry or a Honda Accord when calling around for an estimate on a repair. If you think no one is that clueless, you'd be wrong!

I think I am going to enroll in an auto repair class.