Auto Upkeep: Basic Car Care, Maintenance, and Repair

This 3rd Edition (c) 2013 has been updated and is now in FULL COLOR! Auto Upkeep is an introductory automotive book that provides the fundamental knowledge and experience in owning and maintaining an automobile. From choosing an insurance policy to performing basic maintenance and repair, Auto Upkeep is the do-it-yourself automotive guide for the driver in you. Auto Upkeep helps keep you safe and your vehicle reliable by providing easy-to-follow information with detailed pictures and drawings. Discover how to choose a quality repair facility, buy a car, handle roadside emergencies, diagnose common problems, and communicate effectively with technicians all while saving money. For the full experience, purchase the Auto Upkeep textbook and workbook.

Chapters

1. Introduction and How Cars Work

2. Buying an Automobile

3. Automotive Expenses

4. Repair Facilities

5. Safety Around the Automobile

6. Basic Tools

7. Auto Care and Cleaning

8. Fluid Level Check

9. Electrical System

10. Lubrication System

11. Fuel System

12. Cooling System and Climate Control

13. Ignition System

14. Suspension, Steering, and Tires

15. Braking System

16. Drivetrain

17. Exhaust and Emission System

18. Alternative Fuels and Designs

19. Automotive Accessories

20. Common Problems and Roadside Emergencies

Features of the Text

Each chapter includes an introduction, essential questions, objectives, chapter content, and summary. Chapters also include helpful guides regarding servicing, tech tips, troubleshooting, average prices of replacement parts, frequently asked questions, web links, and career paths.

QR Codes

A QR (quick response) Code is provided at the beginning of each chapter. With a smartphone and a scanning app you can use the QR codes to easily access additional resources online.

Specifications

200 Full Color Pages

Over 400 Photos and Illustrations

Formats

Hardcover Textbook ISBN 978-1-62702-006-0

Paperback Textbook ISBN 978-1-62702-001-5

Paperback Workbook ISBN 978-1-62702-002-2

About Mike

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. Mike has also supervised over 60 teachers in Career and Technology Education as a school system administrator.

About Linda

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.