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This section offers illustrated instructions for tackling many auto repair jobs you might have thought you'd never be able to do yourself. Since then you've learned that knowing your car and car maintenance are easy--if you have someone to show you how. Following are common mechanical, electrical, body, and interior repairs that you probably can do yourself. And even if you decide to leave the heavy work for a trusted mechanic, you'll know how to get value for your repair-bill dollars. |
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Mechanical Repairs
A repair typically means fixing something that breaks. You’ve gotten so good at maintaining your car that repairs are rarely needed. However, you still must contend with used cars previously owned by folks who minimized or even avoided maintenance. That’s when you have to make repairs.This first section on repairs covers mechanical problems such as those with the engine, transmission, cooling, suspension, brake, and secondary systems on your car. Obviously, I can’t cover all mechanical repairs for all cars and models in this section. For specific instructions invest in a consumer-level service manual for your car. However, I will show you how to troubleshoot and what’s involved in easier repairs that car owners frequently do for themselves.
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Electrical Repairs
As you’ve discovered, part of the engine’s power is used to produce electrical power, which then is consumed, by the spark plugs, lights, radio, computer, and other paraphernalia. What can you do if the car’s electrical system quits working? You can repair it! This section offers step-by-step instructions for curing a number of auto electric ills. You’ll learn about fuses, batteries, alternator, computers, lights, the radio, and other electric stuff. It’s really quite easy.
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Body Repairs
Whether you want to sell your car for the highest dollar, want to increase pride of ownership, or just want to boost your car’s morale, there are many easy car body repairs you can do yourself. This section offers ideas and tips from the pros on how to repair or replace a body panel, touch up your car’s paint, and repair or replace a cracked window. Chances are, you can do these jobs yourself. But if you decide not to, at least you’ll know how it’s done.
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Interior Repairs
Car interiors get lots of use – and abuse. If your car’s interior looks like the home of an emotionally disturbed gorilla, this section can help. Taking care of the interior can also help you keep your nice car nicer. In this category, you’ll learn how to repair upholstery and remove stains. You’ll also see how to remove and replace interior components such as seats, panels, console, and even the dashboard. Why would you want to? Because (a) the component is damaged and needs replacement, or (b) someone dropped the car keys or a credit card into a crevice between components.
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