Obvious, But Not So Obvious Vol. 3: How to Care for Your Car

Car maintenance for beginners, from dashboard lights and tires to flat changes, jump-starts and mechanics.

For most people, a car is the second most expensive thing they'll ever buy. Yet most of us treat it like a magic box: turn the key, press the pedal and hope. Looking after a car well takes about 15 minutes a month and an inexpensive tire gauge. You don't need to be a mechanic. You need to know what's normal, notice when something changes, and know which problems need a pro. Checking oil is pulling out a stick and reading a line. And most "scary" warning lights come down to one question: do I stop now, or book a visit soon?

Inside you'll learn:

• Which dashboard warning lights mean "stop now"
• Checking oil, coolant and the other fluids under the hood
• Tire pressure, tread depth and changing a flat
• Jump-starting a dead battery, and easy part swaps
• Talking to mechanics, reading estimates and avoiding upsells
• Washing, cleaning and driving habits that save gas and brakes

Every chapter starts from zero, in plain words, with step-by-step instructions and safety notes. 46 simple drawings, flowcharts and checklists make each step easy to follow.

What you get: an instant PDF download in full colour, 12 chapters, in two sizes: A4 (74 pages, best for printing) and A5 (best for phones and tablets).

Obvious, But Not So Obvious is a series of life-skills guides for beginners and young adults. Also in the series: How to Cook & Master Your Kitchen; How to Fix & Maintain Your Home; How to Manage Your Money & Paperwork; and How to Handle Your Tech & Stay Safe Online. Get all five in one book with the Master Edition: How to Master Everyday Life.