How to Learn the Basics of Auto Mechanics

There are so many reasons a person should learn the basics of auto mechanics. If you end up with a flat tire on a long dirt road, you are going to need to know how to change your tire. You may also want to save yourself the $30-$50 fee each 3,000 miles by changing your car's oil yourself. Once you learn the basics of auto mechanics, you will have the ability to keep your car in better shape, helping it to last longer without major problems.

Things You'll Need

  • Instructor
  • Tutor
  • Online course
  • Online videos
  • Library
  • Take a class. Many colleges and technical schools offer night classes to adults. The fees are usually low and you can learn hands on how to take care of your car. You can learn such basics as how to change a tire, oil and much more.

  • Pay an auto mechanic to be your tutor. This is a great way to learn the basics of auto mechanics because the tutor can come right to your home and show you on your own car. Just place an ad in the newspaper to find an auto mechanic willing to teach you the basics or ask around at some auto repair shops.

  • Sign up for an online course. These courses are not hands on, but they do have pictures and videos so you can see what to do. Plus, you can always print out any directions and take them over to your car to work on it. If you have questions, you can always email the instructor that put the course together. This way you can get further clarification.

  • Watch online videos at Expert Village. This website has a video for more than just basic auto mechanics. By watching the videos, you can clearly see what steps you need to take to keep your car in shape. You can also pause the videos until you have completed each step and then continue on. Watch videos from how to change a tire to checking a serpentine belt.

  • Go to your local library, and take out some how-to books. These books are not as great as the videos, but they will explain the concepts more in depth so that you know why you are asked to do a certain thing. They will have pictures so you won't be learning totally blind. The best part about this option is that the library is free.