Auto Upkeep: Basic Car Care, Maintenance, and Repair

From choosing an insurance policy to performing basic maintenance and repair, Auto Upkeep presents the information you need to know in an easy-to-follow format with hundreds of detailed pictures and drawings. This straightforward consumer guide will help keep you safe and save you thousands of dollars. Now in its completely updated second edition, Auto Upkeep also includes new chapters with information on basic tools, repair facilities, roadside emergencies, and hybrid vehicles.

Chapter 1 - Introduction and How Cars Work
Chapter 2 - Buying an Automobile
Chapter 3 - Automotive Expenses
Chapter 4 - Repair Facilities
Chapter 5 - Safety Around the Automobile
Chapter 6 - Basic Tools
Chapter 7 - Auto Care and Cleaning
Chapter 8 - Fluid Level Check
Chapter 9 - Electrical System
Chapter 10 - Lubrication System
Chapter 11 - Fuel System
Chapter 12 - Cooling System and Climate Control
Chapter 13 - Ignition System
Chapter 14 - Suspension, Steering, and Tires
Chapter 15 - Braking System
Chapter 16 - Drivetrain
Chapter 17 - Exhaust and Emission System
Chapter 18 - Alternative Fuels and Designs
Chapter 19 - Automotive Accessories
Chapter 20 - Common Problems and Roadside Emergencies

Mike has roots in the automotive service industry. He began diagnosing and fixing cars at a young age in his family's service station. He has worked in automotive parts supply stores, towing companies, and service facilities. After graduating from St. Cloud State University (MN) with a Bachelor's degree, he implemented and taught a basic car care program at the high school level. During work on his Master's degree at Illinois State University (IL), he was a curriculum specialist on a National Science Foundation project where he co-authored ten integrated mathematics, science, and technology books designed for team teaching. For nearly four years, he supervised over 60 teachers in Career and Technology Education.

Linda was motivated to learn about cars early on by her desire to be self-reliant and save money. As basic maintenance and repairs were needed on her car she figured out how to do them. She could often be found working on her Pontiac Fiero and reupholstering automotive interiors at her family's upholstery shop. She found guidance from automotive manuals, her family, friends, and husband Mike. During her studies at the University of Redlands (CA), she worked with classmates to design, build, and test a hybrid electric vehicle. After graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Linda worked as a Project Engineer for a bicycle component company. Linda's other interests include alternative energies, home renovation, graphic design, and writing.