Foundations of Auto Repair

A basic understanding of automotive repair should be undertaken by every car owner. Not everyone can afford to bring their cars to a professional mechanic each time their vehicles develop problems. What if they find themselves in the middle of the road with a non-working automobile? When this happens, it’s a nightmare scenario for every driver.

Fixing your own vehicle is an ideal way to cut back on costs. You can perform preventive maintenance, so that you can avoid catastrophic problems in the future. Having a basic know-how on how your vehicle works will allow you to describe to a professional mechanic all car problems you’re experiencing. This saves both time and money. Also, your mechanic won’t be able to trick you into replacing older, but still working, components.

You should get to know each automotive part in your vehicle. Ask how does each part contributes to the smooth performance of your vehicle. Consulting a mechanic or automotive books is one way to increase your car parts knowledge. Pinpointing a car problem is easier because you have a basic background on automobiles and their inner workings. You now know what specific part to repair or replace.
When you’re doing the repair yourself, you will only need to spend for the replacement parts. If you’re going to spend a few days on the repair, you won’t incur additional fees that a mechanic charges. With a variety of resources available online, there’s no reason why you can’t be your own automotive repair expert. Of course, practice makes perfect–try working on the smaller problems first before you work your way up to more complex repairs. Do remember that while you may become a seasoned DIY mechanic, you should know that other repairs, such as engine rebuilds, are best left with the pros.

Taking The Guesswork From DIY Auto Repair

With help from online auto repair manuals, you can now perform a wide variety of DIY auto repair and maintenance tasks with ease. As long as you have the right tools and online manual with you, you’ll be able to pull these jobs. Of course, these repair jobs must fall within the capacity of a DIY mechanic, such as you.

There are repair tasks that will be too complex, even for a seasoned DIY mechanic. These complex jobs usually require heavy-duty and expensive equipment that most car owners won’t be able to afford. When you encounter these types of tasks, it’s best to enlist the help of a professional mechanic. Even if you start with absolutely zero skill when it comes to mechanics, you will eventually gain the basic knowledge to do your own repairs and maintenance tasks. Do this one small step at a time; you can be discouraged at first, but you must persevere. Repeatedly reading the online manual would help you eventually grasp the technical aspects of automotive repair. A thorough understanding of what’s going under the hood is required for all car owners.

Simply purchasing an online repair manual isn’t enough. You need to make sure that the manual you’re going to get has accurate and updated information. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself having problems along the way. If you’re going to consider a free online repair manual, just double-check the contents for accuracy. You wouldn’t want to jeopardize a simple repair just because of wrong information. If you opt for a paid subscription, then make sure you select a service that has everything you need. One advantage an online manual has over a paper manual is it can be updated with the latest technical information and service bulletins. Regular updates assure you have the latest repair data. A solid customer support is also preferable.

Interface Design: Key Component in Online Repair Manuals

Online repair manuals, regardless of how accurate their information is, require a functional and easy-to-use user interface design. The first impression you’ll have on a particular online repair manual will fall on how well is your user experience with it. Having a pleasant user interface will definitely make reading the manual easier and allows you to maximize its contents.

Usability is the main focus when you use the online repair manual. When using a manual, does it have the buttons or links where you can easily see them? Do they have a clear label? Are all the menus easy to navigate? Does the overall layout of the online repair manual work? Does the online service offer additional support in case you’re having trouble accessing the manual? These are some factors that influence the usability of the manual.

Unless you can download a few sample pages of the online repair manual or can view sample screenshots from the publisher’s website, then you won’t be able to know whether the manual you’re going to purchase is user-friendly or not. Do note that screenshots are not enough to give an accurate gauge on the online repair manual’s user interface. Fancy-looking screenshots doesn’t guarantee you’ll receive the best technical information. Still, you now know what to expect when you choose a particular online service.

The use interface and overall usability of an online repair manual are the biggest considerations you have to make before you subscribe to a service. You wouldn’t want to use an online manual that’s clumsy and inconvenient to use! After all, you want to get maximum value for your money. The next time you need to purchase an online car repair manual for your DIY needs, make sure you do your research and sample what the different online services offer.

Providing Auto Repair Knowledge to DIY Enthusiasts

When you have a bunch of online car repair manuals safely stored in your computer, it makes your DIY car repair easier and more convenient. Instead of buying expensive, paper-based repair manuals that don’t get updated, online car repair manuals are cheaper. There are even some that are offered for free! For the beginner DIY car owner, these online manuals should be your tool of choice.

These online car repair manuals are similar to an encyclopedia set for the DIY car owner. These manuals teach you about the basics of automotive repair by presenting key concepts. While this may sound easy, not all car owners can grasp the various concepts from the get-go. Some technically-inclined ones can feel right at home with all the technical mumbo-jumbo that you’ll encounter when you dive into automotive repair. The basic maintenance and servicing tasks can make a lot of beginners struggle. That’s why online auto repair manuals help these beginners by providing the necessary knowledge and instructions to successfully perform these tasks.

A few may point out that these online auto repair manuals are still too technical for most first-time car owners. While this holds true for a number of manuals, there are some that offer a more beginner-friendly approach. Because there are a lot of manuals by different publishing companies, you should take into account your preferences when choosing the right one for your needs. Before you select one, you should try the features and services offered by each. You can also rely on other car owner’s testimonials and reviews. Online car repair manuals, whether they’re free or not, give you the information you need to finish your DIY repair. If you’re just getting your feet wet in the world of automotive repair, then having the right online car repair manual for your needs is the perfect first step.

Helpful Diagrams Make DIY Auto Repair Easier

Like it or not, diagrams help you accomplish your DIY repair task. It’s faster and more convenient for you if you have a clear picture of the correct part you’re handling. Any doubts you’ll have will disappear when you’re confident that you’re not removing the wrong part! Unlike repair manuals of the past with basic illustrations, today’s diagrams are more accurate and feature more detail than before. Computer-generated illustrations add that extra depth of realism and allow you to be familiar with every aspect of your vehicle.

Thanks to the introduction of computer-aided illustration, car owners can get detailed diagrams which provide eye-catching detail and easy-to-understand illustrations of the different automotive systems and processes. Exploded view diagrams of the different parts show the inner workings of each and their relationship to the various automotive components surrounding them. By using three-dimensional drawings, you can easily each component suspended in space, with each part separated in an equal distance from their original locations. These types of diagrams usually include the part’s identification number and a label specifying the component’s position in the diagram. The parts on the outside of the exploded diagram are usually the ones that are removed first.

Diagrams are not only found in automotive manuals, but also in other facets of our daily lives. Whether we’re reading the daily newspaper or tuning in to the latest stock market news, diagrams help deliver information in the most visually-appealing form. With visual stimuli, the human brain can process and internalize raw information easier. This holds true in car repair manuals–complex theories and processes which seem difficult to understand just by reading are now easier to grasp when presented through visual aids. For the DIY car owner, diagrams will help you understand each of your vehicle’s different aspects on a more detailed level.

Printed Alternative: Popular Mechanics Complete Car Care Manual

Whenever your automobile doesn’t perform as well as it should, our default course of action is usually a visit to our local mechanic. But for budget-minded car owners, every visit to the repair shop means paying for the mechanic’s professional fee every single time. That money could be spent on buying the necessary replacement part/s for your vehicle. If you think you’re pretty skilled with mechanics, why not consider DIY repair? There are a lot of DIY auto repair manuals out there, but one of the best is the Popular Mechanics Complete Car Care Manual. Why are we featuring a print manual instead of an online one? Let’s face it, there are times when the Internet is down and you can’t access online references.

Anyone who has been involved with automotive industry would have heard about Popular Mechanics. Existing for more than 100 years, the publication has been providing car owners of all levels key information on how to maintain their vehicles. The Popular Mechanics Complete Car Care Manual gets updated with an additional 64 pages. It includes more than 90 projects that are clearly indicated by varying difficulty levels. Because the information included in the book are tried and tested, you can now do auto repairs with confidence. Even if you don’t know have basic automotive knowledge, this book will help you get up to speed in terms of basic car parts and accessories. Of course, don’t expect to fix every automotive problem because some repairs require specialized equipment that can only be found in a professional repair shop.

More than just mechanical repair, the book also offers advice on other automotive concerns such as emissions, finding service data from the Internet, and even guides on how to remove windshield stickers and window tints. You just need to gather all the necessary tools indicated in the book and you’ll be able to maintain your vehicle in tip-top shape. Who knows, maybe you’ll find discover you have a hidden talent for automotive repair!

DIY You Must

Let’s face it. During these days of economic uncertainty, most of us need to prioritize on what we’re spending on. Of course, transportation is one of the essentials that we use everyday. Car owners spend a lot on fuel that keeps on rising, so they turn to more fuel-efficient vehicles. But what happens when the car breaks down? In the past, the default solution would be to rush your vehicle to the nearest repair shop. Now, thanks to online repair manuals, you can do a large number of repairs yourself that will surely save you a lot of money for other important things.

Compared to a professional mechanic, purchasing an online repair manual is a lot cheaper. Because there’s no one to pay for, you don’t spend on labor fees. In fact, repair bills owe their increased costs due to the labor charge added by the mechanic’s service. If you did the repair yourself, you’ll eliminate this additional cost instantly. On the other hand, attempting to repair your own vehicle means you should purchase your own set of tools to help you do the job. But remember, going the DIY route doesn’t guarantee you’ll save a lot of cash. The opposite can easily happen if you’re not careful.

Before you venture into the world of DIY, make sure you understand the basic automotive concepts and the various systems in your vehicle. Be prepared to put in the time to learn and study these because you’ll need them once you start the first repair. Unless you’re a mechanic genius, you can’t just dive in and hope for the best! Try to read on some repair manuals at the local bookstore, and see if you can easily grasp automotive technical mumbo-jumbo. If you can, then you’ve made the first step in choosing the DIY route.

Online Auto Repair Manual: ALLDATA

A lot of online auto repair manuals exist for car owners to use. Let’s take a closer look at ALLDATA, a company that provides factory repair information that’s being used by more than 70,000 shops. With that figure, it’s safe to assume that the information is accurate and up-to-date. Those repair shops wouldn’t depend on inaccurate technical data, would they? Through the website ALLDATAdiy.com, you can access repair information, technical service bulletins, and diagrams for your specific vehicle.

Because the information available at ALLDATA is taken from OEM service manuals, you’re going to have access to the exact data car manufacturers use. Unlike the traditional printed manual, you have access to the current technical service bulletins for your vehicle. This is very useful, especially when there’s a certain auto part recall. You’ll never be in the dark when it comes to diagnosing your vehicle’s condition! Another advantage offered by online repair manuals is you can use them anytime, anywhere as long as you have access to a computer. ALLDATA provides you only the information specific to your vehicle make, model, year, and engine type–there’s no need to waste time searching for the repair information!

ALLDATA even offers factory diagrams that cover all electrical systems. These unedited diagrams are useful when you need to trace an electrical system. While we’re aware that our vehicles need to be in good working order to work properly, we sometimes forget to replace worn-out parts on a regular basis. By clicking on your vehicle’s mileage, you can view a list of recommended service procedures that you can do to prolong the life of your precious ride. If you decide to purchase a subscription, just click on the “Select Your Vehicle” button and read the instructions. Indeed, an online repair manual like ALLDATA offers you vehicle repair information at your fingertips.

Online Auto Repair Manual: Mitchell1 DIY

If you’re still clinging onto your old printed auto repair manual, it’s now time to retire it. With the arrival of online auto repair manuals, you get current repair information with just a few mouse clicks. Compared to the printed version, an online repair manual, like Mitchell1 DIY, is cheaper and provides the most current information regarding your specific vehicle. You can have all the information you need at an instant, ranging from maintenance details, part diagrams, technical service updates, and component recalls. Unlike a printed manual where the information won’t be updated until the next edition is printed, the online version gets updated once new data is provided by the car manufacturer.

Mitchell1 DIY is a division of Snap-on, a leading manufacturer in hand and power tools. You get your money’s worth when you purchase a subscription at Mitchell1 DIY because the company’s data centers are monitored by dedicated network engineers 24/7. Unless the Armageddon is upon us, then you’re guaranteed to have access to your online repair manual. It’s easy to subscribe–just know your vehicle’s year, make, and model. Once you’re done, you’ll proceed to the checkout area where you’ll fill up information such as name, address, email, and password. Mitchell1 DIY offers subscriptions as low as $11.99 per vehicle.

As long as you have access to a computer, you can check your online repair manual anytime. Except for a few complex jobs that require specialized tools, you can do a lot of repair jobs by yourself, and in the comforts of your own garage. In case you’re having trouble, Mitchell1 DIY has online support for its subscribers. If you feel that you’re not getting what you paid for, you can opt for a refund, provided you submit the request within two days of accessing the online repair manual.

Printed Alternative: Auto Repair For Dummies

When it comes to DIY auto repair manuals, simple and straightforward is the name of the game. For those drivers who don’t have a clue about the parts of their vehicles, the Auto Repair For Dummies book is ideal. Online repair manuals are an excellent alternative, but your Internet access can be down–this means you must rely on the tried-and-tested printed repair manual. And it doesn’t hurt to go the old-fashioned route!

It covers a wide range of topics, ranging from the how an internal combustion engine works to regular car maintenance. Once you read each chapter, you’ll get a basic understanding on how the different automotive systems work together. To help get the point across, the book relies on illustrations and diagrams to help explain automotive concepts. The latest edition of Auto Repair For Dummies is revamped and updated to include the common repairs on modern vehicles, with specific information on alternative fuel engines and hybrids. Unlike previous editions, carburetors are not included anymore. More than just car repair, there are also topics on how to drive more efficiently to lessen the impact of wear-and-tear on some automotive components. Of course, this book will also teach how to troubleshoot problems before they get out of hand, and when to call in professional help for tough jobs.

When it comes to car repair, having the right knowledge can help you a lot even if you don’t have previous experience tinkering with automotive parts. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to handle basic maintenance and repairs with ease. You can save a considerable amount of money when you opt to do repairs yourself. When you consider the rising fuel prices these days, the savings you can make doesn’t sound too bad at all! And because you’re working on your own vehicle, you’re more likely to do a more quality repair compared to a hired mechanic. While not all mechanics are out to shortchange you, they are focused on making profit by trying to finish repairs quickly. Sometimes, this leads to lower-quality repairs that force you to return your vehicle to the repair shop again.

Online Auto Repair Manuals Review: Factory Automanuals

Website: http://www.factoryautomanuals.com/

Sometimes, you can tell how serious a business is based on its online presence. In that regard, Factory Automanuals really gave us a great first impression. The service impressed us right away with its web design, which deviated from the common e-commerce mold of other online auto repair manuals in that theirs actually had some visual appeal and had an aesthetic going on. There is some effort at typography and keeping with a unified design overall.

Of course, visuals don't make an online auto repair manual service There has to be substance beyond the style. Fortunately, Factory Automanuals has that. First off, let's get it out there that this site isn't really a true online repair manuals site. It contains a large selection of physical repair manuals that you can order. There are also vehicle-specific books that are more like reference materials instead of actual manuals. A good example of this is the book “The Ford Century” by Russ Hanham, which was made in celebration of the company's 100^th year anniversary.

Finding one for your needs is relatively easy, aided by the site's Quick Search function. Ordering is also a breeze, and prospective buyers have two options when purchasing: Add to Cart, which is pretty much self-explanatory, and Add to Wishlist. Shipping and tax are both calculated upon checkout, and there's really no other way to determine the total cost unless the customer already selected his or her delivery options. Of course, at least a partial total would have sufficed in the Cart section. It would help customers estimate the costs and the amount they need to shell out for the repair manuals.

Cadillac, Chevy, Ford, Isuzu, Toyota, Volkswagen, import cars, domestic cars, motorcycles, trucks, farm equipment—you name it, Factory Automanuals probably has it. It's this large selection of resources and manuals that gives the online service a big nod in our books. If you prefer the kind of manuals that you can flip through and store in bookshelves, you can do way worse than Factory Automanuals. It's a good site that has a solid collection, and it has a layout that's very pleasing to the eye.

The Basics of Auto Repair and Maintenance

If you’ve been watching the NBA anytime within the last decade, I’m sure you would’ve heard of someone named Tim Duncan. “Timmy,” as he is fondly called by fans of the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs, is also known as “The Big Fundamental.” This is because his game is so old-school, so basic, that he is more of an exception in this day and age of flashy dunks and passes that go behind players’ backs. Still, he’s won four championships with this style of play. What’s my point with this NBA analogy?

Fundamentals are important.

You can think up all of the left-field modifications you want to do on your precious vehicle, but it remains important that you have a thorough understanding of what makes your car tick. You can accomplish this by reading through your online repair manual (or if you’re rich and have surplus cash, perhaps you have many online auto repair manuals under your name).

These fundamentals involve a pool of knowledge that you can fall back on when things get nasty, or when your tasks become too complicated. It’s essential that you have a firm grasp on the basic functions and inner workings of your ride’s core systems so that you’ll have an idea what to do and where to start when something goes wrong.

Online car repair manuals contain the sort of basic information you need to handle practically any task related to auto repair, maintenance, and modification. Vehicle-specific variants are still the preferable options, but even generic ones will do. Once you understand your ride in theory, you can apply that knowledge into practice. Over time, you won’t even have to keep consulting the online repair manual just to confirm if what you think is correct. That’s how the fundamentals can help you on your everyday DIY tasks.

I'm sure "Timmy" and his four NBA championship rings will agree.

Online Auto Repair Manuals and the Issue of Comprehension

One potential roadblock to the widespread use of online car repair manuals is comprehension. Depending on the manual that you download, or the language used by the online repair manual service provider, you might encounter steps, concepts, knowledge, ideas, and other pieces of information that can be hard to understand.

The fact that you decided to undertake DIY auto repair and maintenance with the aid of an online auto repair manual, I guess, already speaks volumes about your commitment and desire to learn. If that’s the case, then there shouldn’t be a problem even if there’s a steep learning curve provided or necessitated by the kind of online repair manual service you have subscribed yourself to.

Willingness to work through it and try to really wrap your head around some issues that may seem difficult to understand is, for me, a necessary step towards improving yourself. Let’s face it—DIY auto repair and working with vehicles in general is a highly technical task. There’s really a lot of info, jargon, concepts, and processes to deal with. It’s important that you acknowledge that before you even try to dip into the pool that is DIY.

At this point, it’s all about your judgment and, in many cases, your budget. When you encounter an online repair manual that is plainly difficult to understand, you are most likely left with little to no choice on the matter—you need to consider that you had made a bad investment (in the case of a paid online subscription) on a terrible online auto repair manual service. It’s either you stay with that service that’s hard to comprehend, or you get a new one with better reviews in terms of its comprehensibility. If you pick the latter option, though, it will entail another expense and additional expenses.

Top Traits of a Bad Online Auto Repair Manual

We've always been discussing the positive side of online car repair manuals, so we here thought it was time for a change. All things have B-sides, and even these auto repair manuals can also have some negatives. Let's get right on to some of them now.

Internet Connection Required

Although the internet (especially high-speed Broadband connections) have seen widespread use in the past years, there are still some who refuse to rely on this technology to speed up processes or avail of some valuable resources and materials. Some DIY mechanics are among this group, and even some auto repair shops don't really prioritize an internet connection as an essential business tool.

Other car repair manuals may be unreliable over slower connections because of the sheer amount of data they have to fetch. Still, most are geared to be optimized even for slow connections, so make sure you check what kind of connection is required to access your online manual.

Too Technical?

Let's face it—auto repair involves a lot of technical stuff. This can be a very big obstacle for many who don't really have time to go into the nitty-gritty of automotive repair concepts. Jargon isn't a very good thing especially for people who are challenged when it comes to comprehension, so they might feel like they're not cut out for the task if they can't understand an auto repair manual.

Then again, some auto repair manuals are too technical in and of themselves. The level of detail varies from manual to manual, from provider to provider. This is a detail people need to look out for, especially when it involves a paid subscription. You wouldn't want to shell out money for something you won't be able to understand.


These are just two of the negative things one may experience when dealing with online car repair manuals, so don't hesitate to read up on reviews and look at detailed descriptions of the one you're looking to subscribe to before you enter your credit card details and commit valuable finances and other resources.

Online Auto Repair Manuals Reviews the The AutoMD App

We've already mentioned the Automd Apple device app on this blog a couple of weeks ago, when we posted about alternatives to Online Auto Repair Manuals. And we think it's now time to provide you with a full review—even though we said we wouldn't do so until the app's creators come up with a new version.

Okay, so here are the details of the app:

Link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/automd-mobile/id369361977?mt=8

Description: Get “how to” repair guides, cost estimates for repairs and local shops info all from your iPhone with AutoMD Mobile – the mobile version of AutoMD.com.

• Free
• Category: Utilities
• Updated: Mar 01, 2011
• Current Version: 1.4.1
• 1.4.1
• Size: 2.6 MB
• Language: English
• Seller: US Auto Parts Network, Inc
• © AutoMD, Inc
  

Rated 4+

At first glance, the app really does offer a wide array of functions, as well as a fairly large collection of information that you can access online through the app. The estimate feature is particularly helpful, as you'll find the prices to be quite consistent. Plus, you can check if the auto repair shop you're at is overcharging for the repairs on your car.

The issue, however, starts with accuracy. If you visit the AutoMD web site, you'll find fairly accurate information on their how-to guides and their step-by-step articles. That doesn't seem to be the case with the site's app, though. Still, there are a lot articles and pieces of information that you can use when you're in need of instant help on the road.

If you want mobile access to auto repair information, the AutoMD app is an excellent start. If you have an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, just hook it up to a data connection or over Wi-Fi and you can find easy answers to your questions. It's free, as we said, so it's no problem if you don't like the app once you try it out.

Online Auto Repair Manuals Review: RepairSurge

I saw this site just a few days ago. I was so kept up with other stuff in the past that I never got around to seeing another online auto repair manual aside from the ones we've already tackled here. Anyway, we continue our reviews of online auto repair manuals today, and next in our lineup is RepairSurge (www.repairsurge.com).

“Never buy another repair manual.” That's the RepairSurge slogan, and you have to admit, it's a pretty lofty one. Good thing the company can back that claim to a fault.

Requirements to run the program or software aren't too demanding: a decent operating system on the computer, mostly Windows (Win 98, 2000, XP, NT, Millennium Edition, and Windows Vista); a fairly fast Internet connection, and either Paypal or a major credit card in order to pay for your purchased online repair manual.

While the coverage list seems bare, RepairSurge actually has a pretty extensive line of online repair manual information on a wide range of automakers, whether we're talking about domestic applications or import models. Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Jeep—you name it, RepairSurge lists it.

The online auto repair manual itself functions much like other window-based programs; you have a sidebar, a menu bar, and the main content area. The items are pretty straightforward, and the UI is very intuitive—if not quite attractive or even pleasing to the eye. But hey—at the end of the day, content is still king. You can't use a pretty menu to fix that car of yours, now, can you?

Pricing is at $14.99 for the online manuals, a good $5 off CD-ROM prices and in par (if not cheaper) than most other online auto repair manuals on the Web. That pricing should help RepairSurge position itself as one of the better alternatives available on the market.

Online Auto Repair Manuals from Resellers

Getting online auto repair manuals is pretty easy. You just Google for “online repair manuals” and you'll get pages upon pages of results, each linking to some online service or another. Of course, not all of these are the online car repair manuals themselves. Instead of providers, you get resellers.

These resellers, and in many other cases the affiliates, offer online auto repair manuals indirectly—that is, they are merely middle men getting you to try or buy a new online car repair manual.

For example, if you go to 10w40.com, you'll see not one, not two, but three online auto repair manuals that are up for sale: Haynes, Alldata DIY, and Mitchell 1 DIY. (If you want reviews, we've covered all of these three services in our review section. Do check them out if you have the time. Thanks!)

What's good about these affiliates or resellers is that you can get substantial discounts off the coupons that the resellers offer. That's a big help, especially if you're still unsure that you're getting your money's worth. Additionally, you're also helping the affiliates earn money by purchasing the online auto repair manual from them. It's a win win situation for everybody.

Another example, also from 10w40.com, is how they sell RepairSurge universal repair manuals at just $13.99, a full dollar off the regular price (which is also in turn slashed from the standard $19.95 fee). The site also sells ALLDATA manuals at $24.25, from an SRP Of $26.95. This price slash is accomplished by using a coupon.

So don't be taken aback if you see another site selling another online auto repair manual service. Not all of these are spam or scams. Make sure you stay critical of everything just to avoid becoming a victim. Many of the resellers are legit, so you shouldn't have much trouble finding one.

The Best Online Auto Repair Manual Ever

Michael Jordan is the best NBA player ever. The Beatles are the best band. But what about the best online car repair manual? Well, since we've been discussing our ideal repair manual traits ever since I could remember, and we've already reviewed a wide variety of online car repair manual service providers, perhaps we've already found the best one there is. Guess what?

There is NO best online auto repair manual.

As we've said before, different people have varied needs and requirements. You know what they say, “Different strokes for different strokes.” The important thing here is to identify what your needs are and then find the best online car repair manual service that will fit that need. You have to make sure that the one you choose is always custom-fit for the stuff you have in mind. It's as much about you as it is what's included in the online repair manual's package.

If you don't have the dough to shell out for a paid subscription to the different online auto repair manuals out there, then that defines your needs and requirements. You'll have to get the best free online repair manual for your DIY tasks, and that then becomes the best one for you. The paid ones are all out of the question. You know there are a lot of free ones out there that can provide for your needs just fine.

So, to close this article, we'll leave you by saying that there may never be a Michael Jordan of online automotive repair manuals. Sure, Haynes, Alldata, and Mitchell 1 DIY, and all the rest all have their strengths, and some are more preferred compared to others, but what you need defines what's best for you. And if you find that online auto repair manual, even if it's not among the big-name brands, then good for you! 

ALLDATA Online Repair Manuals Reach 80,000-Subscriber Plateau

When it comes to mechanical auto repair information, few companies can lay claim to the kind of success that ALLDATA has reached. The California-based company announced recently that it has just reached the 80,000-subcriber mark.

ALLDATA is still increasing its market share, backed by its recent releases of the ALLDATA Collision S3500 and the ALLDATA Repair S3000 manuals just this fall. The company continues to bank on strong and innovative products and services as it maintains its position as one of the leading providers of manufacturer repair information.

ALLDATA pioneered the online auto repair manuals scene, as it introduced the first electronic auto repair manual in North America shortly after its founding back in 1986. Many subscribers have flocked to the service thanks to its reliability—since the company sources its information directly from the manufacturers without any editing or without summarizing the material, subscribers get access to accurate and usually exclusive data.

At the moment, the ALLDATA repair and service database includes an extensive line of some 22,000 units of engine-specific vehicle models covering the model years 1982 to the present. The company’s products cater to the collision repair industry as well as the mechanical industry and of course the automotive repair and maintenance industry. Even some DIY mechanics are subscribing to the service.

"We have had rapid adoption to our latest product releases because we are committed to building products that drive the market forward and more important, are critical to our customers' businesses," said Jeff Lagges, president of ALLDATA. "We are constantly researching market trends and anticipating the next generation of products to assist our customers. We have been a leader in this field since the day we sold our first unit, and we intend to remain out front. Our goal is simply to help automotive repair shops deliver excellent service with factory-correct OE information and to thrive as a result."

Manuals Wanted: Mechanics Want Access to Dealer Info

In Massachusetts, there are thousands of independent repair shops that are currently having a hard time simply because they don’t have the kind of information that dealerships are privy to. These auto shops are waiting for the passing of a state bill that will give them access to that information.

"These independent garages are investing in manuals and they are really getting the Cliff Notes version," said Art Kinsman, a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Right to Repair Coalition. "They can go buy manufacturer scanning tools, but without dealer codes or satellite links to the manufacturers, the tools are only partially valuable to them."

Without access to such information, Kinsman says that the auto repair shops are forced to send their potential customers to the various dealerships simply because their garage doesn’t have the capacity to access the computer codes for diagnosing different vehicle problems. The codes are displayed by scanning tools bought from the manufacturer. The sad thing is that only the dealerships know which issue some codes are associated with. Not even access to premium online repair manuals can remedy certain situations.

The bill is the answer to many of these issues that plague the shops. "The bill requires manufacturers to sell for a fair price - and make available for purchase - repair codes, information, and diagnostic tools for fixing cars,” says Kinsman. "There are a lot of good dealers out there, but if you bought the car, you ought to get it fixed where you want."

Last year, the bill was already passed in Senate. The House, however, never came to a vote on the bill. This is so even when there are already 64 co-sponsors for the bill.

Among the co-sponsors is State Representative David Linsky. "I believe that independent auto repair shops should have all the access codes and information that is necessary to fix cars," Linsky said. "People shouldn't be forced to go to a dealer and pay expensive prices to have their cars repaired. Owning and operating a car is expensive enough as it is.

If you want more info about the Right to Repair Coalition, you can go to righttorepair.org.

Practical Ecommerce Features Motor Book Store Founder

Luis Hernandez, Jr., the owner and CEO of auto repair manual provider The Motor Bookstore, was recently interviewed by Practical eCommerce as part of their “Lessons Learned” series.

Hernandez first put up The Motor Bookstore back in 1995 and the initial service was basically an electronic counterpart of a motor bike repair and restoration magazine. Using this medium, he was able to sell some motorcycle books and then this retailing aspect just grew from that starting point. Hernandez managed to break into the e-commerce part of his business in 1997.

Hernandez fondly looks back on his first sale using the then-new e-commerce platform (which was still named MotorcycleBooks.com): “I still remember setting up the site, which was fairly easy through Viaweb,”Hernandez says. “The first order came in that same day, in the evening. I sold a Ducati book — MotorcycleBooks.com was a real business.”

The DeBary, FL-Based company grew enough to accommodate automotive-related material and books as well by 2002. That was when it became TheMotorBookstore.com. An estimated gross revenue of $2.2M was hauled in by the company in 2007, at its peak. Last year, the site grossed some $1.5 million in revenue.

“When we first started the magazine online, it was me, my ex-wife and one part-time employee. It was a little challenging of course financially, but since I am the kind of person who escrows for pretty much everything, I always had enough to cover all expenses and even save some money for future projects. That's how I was able to purchase my first office.

“We kept growing and at one point we had six employees. We’re now reduced down to four. As far as management, I subscribe to the theory of hiring tough and firing easy. We are like a family, where everyone is respected and allowed to do their job. Our people contribute to our goals because they know what we're about. The golden rule I've always had is to hire nice people. We can teach anyone how to sell technical automotive books, but we cannot teach them to be nice. That's something you learn at home.”

For the full article, you can visit this link and learn more about the site. We’ll be reviewing it shortly for your convenience.

Repair Manuals Online Prays for Japan

If you haven't heard already, Japan was struck by an offshore earthquake (Magnitude 8.8 or so) and then a tsunami hit.

Seriously, if you've watched any of the Live streaming footage, you'll see the extent of the devastation and the sheer brute force of nature. We pray for the safety of the survivors and hope that nothing major happens after.

Our prayers go out to all of the Japanese people and everyone who has been affected by this tragedy. Be safe, everyone. Minna, kiwotsukete ne.

Merc C-Class and C-Class Estate Online Manuals Now Up

Mercedes-Benz is really keen on providing online resources for its patrons. The German automobile manufacturer has just launched the interactive online manuals for two of its higher-end models, the C-Class compact executive sedan and the C-Class Estate station wagon.

The current-gen (w204) C-Class and C-Class Estate (s204) get the same online manual treatment as the previously showcased SLK’s. Viewers get detailed information about the vehicle, although you need to remember that the specifications have German standards in mind.

These online manuals are useful for many car owners who may have misplaced their printed copies. Of course, Mercedes-Benz puts it out there that these online interactive manuals aren’t really sufficient replacements for the real thing. There may be some info missing in the online version or some details can only be found on the printed manual.

Still, it’s nice to see Mercedes-Benz really putting customer service at the forefront of its operations. As an added bonus, enthusiasts who may or may not be able to afford the C-Class or C-Class Estate can still ogle the online interactive manuals and perhaps one day they (we? Haha) will be able to purchase the vehicle.

If you’re an owner of these current-gen C-Class vehicles and you’ve lost or misplaced your personal copy of the manual, you can always contact or go to your Merc dealer to inquire about getting a new copy. Don’t hesitate to do so—online repair manuals are good, but the actual owner’s manual is an indispensable resource you’ll need for the times when you have to repair or service your precious car.

Anyway, enough about all of this. Head on over to this link for the C-Class (w204) online interactive owner’s manual, or click this link to view the C-Class Estate (s204) online interactive owner’s manual. We hope you’ll enjoy it!

Online Repair Manuals are Here to Stay

Everything comes and goes. Even what's popular or famous today (The Los Angeles Lakers, Google, the iPhone, Rebecca Black) can be gone tomorrow. Still, we here at Repair Manuals Online firmly believe that our favorite web-based automotive resources, these online auto repair manuals, are certainly here to stay.

Fact is, a great many people really do own cars. And another fact is, most people would really want to save money by at least being knowledgeable enough to know what's wrong with their cars and maybe even be empowered enough to do something or other about the problem (this is, in essence, the DIY spirit). And online auto repair manuals are excellent tools for that job.

Very few things can compare to the convenience of having a readily accessible resource off the Internet, especially now that fast broadband connections are becoming the norm instead of the exception. This way, it's pretty easy to access online car repair manuals anytime and anywhere (or at least anywhere with a decent Wi-Fi connection that you can connect to).

Wikipedia is popular for a reason. It has loads of information available within a click or two. The same goes for online car repair manuals. They offer specialized info for DIY mechanics, and there really aren't a lot of resources that can compare in terms of depth and coverage. It's just a matter of finding the perfect one for your vehicle.

So there you have it. We believe that our beloved online auto repair manuals are here to stay. As long as there's a person who needs to have automotive information available at his fingertips, these web-based resources will have demand. And as long as service providers are willing to serve up this demand, then we'll always have high-quality and reliable online vehicle repair manuals at our beck and call. Count on it.

Share Your Online Repair Manuals Story

We've received a couple of e-mails telling how people experienced some problems with their cars and found the solution in online auto repair manuals. We'll be bringing them out to the forefront when we post them and discuss them on a future date, but now we'd just like to tell everybody that we welcome any and all e-mails as long as you tell us about your own story involving online car repair manuals.

It can be any story—from a repair job that you've had where you consulted your trusty online car repair manual or when you opted to go for a subscription so that you can really get into the DIY mechanic mode properly. Regardless, we'll be taking a close look at it and then we'll showcase it in a post all its own just so the rest of the world will know your story.

Questions and suggestions are also welcome, so don't be shy and just fire away. We'll answer anything you want to know with everything that we have, and we'll try to give you solutions and consider any suggestions you want to give us. It's a free world, after all, and all we want to do is serve you guys better and provide you with the best possible resource when it comes to online auto repair manuals.

So don't hesitate to hit the e-mail! Or you can simply drop us a line using the comment forms on any of our posts. Don't worry—we'll make sure to reply as soon as possible so that your story gets published and your queries get answered. Here's to more online auto repair manual stories in the future!

Online Auto Repair Manuals FTW

Never take things for granted, guys. If you have a subscription to any of the premium online auto repair manuals out there, then make sure you maximize each and every kilobyte of data. Learn the ropes in and out. Study what needs to be studied. Get to know your vehicle by using the manual, so that you won't have much of a problem when a, uh, problem arises.

Mastering DIY can be a pretty challenging and not to mention daunting task. But it is certainly doable, and you can manage it easily with the help of a reliable online auto repair manual at your disposal. When something happens to your car, the online car repair manual is the one you can turn to for help. Of course, you can also consult your trusted mechanic, but it will definitely save you loads of money if you can do tasks yourself.

It doesn't even have to be a big, complicated task. You can just learn basic things like servicing and keeping your car in top condition. Preventing setbacks can be a pretty good way to maintain the good performance of your vehicle while saving some dough in the process. If you can keep your car in excellent shape, then you won't have to pay bloated fees from independent repair shops or from your dealership.

You'll be able to see the difference when you set out on a repair or maintenance task and you don't have a trusty online auto repair manual available for use. The task will definitely be much easier to perform, and you'll be more confident doing it since you know you are backed by the kind of information that even dealership mechanics sometimes don't have. It's a win-win situation for you, since you have a perfectly working vehicle while still maximizing your savings since you did the job all on your own.

Alternatives to Online Auto Repair Manuals: Mobile Apps

the AutoMD iPhone app

So you don't want to bother with online auto repair manuals, huh? We understand—sometimes the sheer unfamiliarity and the inaccessibility of the content found in these beloved resources can hinder certain DIY mechanics in terms of growth and training.

Well, the good news is that there are plenty of alternative options that you can turn to should you find auto repair manuals (especially those of the online variety) unsatisfactory or not to your liking. For example you can always turn to applications or apps that can be installed in mobile phone operating systems.

One good example of a reliable mobile app is the AutoMD app for iPhone, iPad tablet, and the iPod Touch media device. You can find the app at this link. It's a good all-around tool; there are still many quirks in the app's current version, but most of it is pretty serviceable. The app offers repair estimates, a shop finder, how-to guides that are linked to the AutoMD website, TSB and recall information, and some other stuff that you can access. It's a free app, anyway, so do give it a try if you like. We'll come up with our own review sometime. Maybe when the next version is released, to be fair.

Additionally, some automakers do provide customers with mobile apps that are focused on particular vehicle models, so you get the power of a manual in the comfort of your own mobile device. Plus, most of these are optimized to be written in a language that many will find relatively easy to understand.

If you own a vehicle, you can look up your ride's manufacturer's web site and check if they offer manual information online (like Mercedes-Benz does). You can also check your respective app store to see if the manufacturer also provides mobile apps. We'll tackle more alternative options in the future, so do stay tuned!

More Online Owner’s Manuals via Edmunds.com

Since we upped that post about the interactive online manuals for the Mercedes-Benz SLK and then the Tesla Roadster, we thought it would be nice to compile all of the online repair manuals information concerning these valuable resources.

There’s only one problem. Edmunds.com has already beat us to the punch. They already have a listing for practically every vehicle make along with the links to those makes’ respective web sites. Edmunds has also conveniently provided answers to questions like “is my car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) required?” or “do I have to pay to access these online car care manuals?” They have also provided info on which model years you’ll be able to find a manual of.

It’s really a great list, and we applaud the writers for making the effort to track down all of those sites and all of those links just to provide a comprehensive list of online manuals for a wide range of car owners.

If you’re not in the mood to use your computer when you need to find some information about a particular part or system inside your vehicle, you can always order a printed owner’s manual. Ordering information is usually provided in the manufacturer’s site, or you can get one online via car repair manual retailers.

Want to see the list? Just click here to jump on to the Edmunds index of online owner’s manuals.

Keeping Things Green with Online Auto Repair Manuals

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to help the drive to keep Mother Earth happy is to cut back on the consumption of paper products. This is largely why many companies are already shifting a lot of business processes involving packaging and documentation. Mobile phones are coming in smaller eco-friendly boxes. Many tech stuff come with virtual manuals instead of paper manuals. Heck, even auto manufacturers aren’t shying away from this practice—which is why we now have a lot of models with online manuals.

Online auto repair manuals are great because they never consume any trees (um, for paper, right?) and all they do is cause a little eye strain (although you might be able to view them using your spankin’ new laptops, netbooks or tablets or other mobile devices with fancy optimized displays that won’t cause too much strain on your precious orbs of sight).

Car owners can still purchase paper / printed manuals since sometimes there really is nothing more convenient than a book you can read through without having to rely on technology—just good old brain processing power. Still, there’s no denying the economic and ecologic impact that adoption of purely online or digital resources can bring.

Maybe you think I’ve just been watching too many reruns of An Inconvenient Truth or that special about Garbage Island, but it’s true—I think all of the little ways people and business come up with to reduce carbon footprint and encourage recycling will all add up to have a big effect. That’s just another reason why I love online auto repair manuals so much.

2008 Tesla Roadster Owner’s Manual

I was browsing random stuff and documents over at Scribd when I chanced upon an interesting find: an online owner’s manual for the BEV (battery electric vehicle) supercar, the Tesla Roadster. To be specific, it’s an online manual for the 2008 model of the car, produced by California-based Tesla Motors.

Of course, only a single model has been in production since 2008, so I guess it shouldn’t be much of a problem that I failed to find a 2009 or a 2010 edition of the owner’s manual anywhere online.

Who would’ve guessed that the Tesla Roadster was just like a normal sports car? I kid. You’ll find the usual owner’s manual stuff inside the one for the spankin’ hot electric vehicle, including intros, basic overviews of components and systems, driving basics and maintenance guidelines. There’s also a thorough section on technical specifications near the end. The whole thing is in there.

Just like your standard online auto repair manuals, here are also sections on how to clean the vehicle, how to replace certain parts, and make sure that your environmentally-friendly and emissions-free ride is always in tip-top shape. Of course, owning a Tesla Roadster, which is a fully electric vehicle that requires no constant oil changes, has no exhaust systems to speak of, and need no spark plug, hose or belt replacments, allows for easier maintenance because there are less systems and components compared to conventional cars.

The Tesla Roadster took the automotive world by storm with its epic performance numbers while running on battery power. As of early December of last year, there had already been 1,400 Roadsters delivered to customers in many countries.

Ready to take the plunge? Head on over to this link to view the 2008 Tesla Roadster owner’s manual at Scribd.

Mercedes Puts Up Online Manual for SLK Class

If you're one of the few fortunate individuals to own a Mercedes-Benz SLK, then you'd be glad to know that you won't have to flip through the contents of your precious vehicle's online repair manual just to find some info about your car. That's because Mercedes-Benz already put up an interactive online owner's manual on its web site for your convenience.

Of course, even if you don't really own an SLK, it's still going to be pretty neat browsing through an owner's manual for a dream car such as this one. This is probably the closest most of us can be to actually owning a high-end Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

Take note, however, that the specs included in the online manual is for the German edition of the car and will refer to regulations in Germany. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz makes it clear that the online version of the manual isn't a direct replacement of the printed owner's manual you'll get when you actually do purchase an SLK from the dealership. SLK owners are advised to contact their dealer to get a printed copy of your ride's manual.

To check out the online manual for SLK vehicles, just point your browsers to this link and browse away.

Haynes Star Trek Manual

Do check out this nifty little video about a special edition Haynes Manual, from one of the most prominent providers of online auto repair manuals. It's an Owner's Workshop Manual for the U.S.S. Enterprise, or that space ship in the Star Trek universe if you're not familiar with it.

It's not exactly an online auto repair manual, really, but I think it's fun that Haynes is recognized enough that it gets to produce an official licensed product like this one because of course it is a widely known publisher of manuals and similar reference materials.

The official info states that it took two years to make the manual, so there really was a lot of work put into this to make it look like a legit manual. The manual was released last November 2, 2010, and it is available in both e-Book and hardcover print formats. The manual contains detailed technical information about the different fictional spacefaring vessels that bore the name Enterprise, along with cutaway internal views, interior focus, and key system information. The book has been authorized in full by CBS as well as Michael Okuda, the technical consultant that had been part of the team that worked on the TV series Star Trek for 13 years.

You can find out more information about the manual in this link: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/Ben-Robinson/78112754?mcd=vd_youtube

Online Auto Repair Manuals of the Future

Okay, please be warned: This will be a crazy, left-field, out-of-this-world post.

Still reading? Okay, here goes. I just re-watched Minority Report for the nth time today, so I'm still reeling from all the future stuff that I'm imagining or thinking about. One thing I'm always wondering about is how online auto repair manuals will be like 10 or maybe even 20 years from now.

Will we have some of them downloaded directly into our brains a la The Matrix? Or will they come in the form of robotic mechanics that actually help or assist us in doing our repair, maintenance, or servicing jobs? Maybe it'll be like having your own C3PO or R2-D2 aiding you as you tune up that engine or replace your ride's old and clogged air filters. It may be the stuff of science fiction now, but eventually, these will all be reality.

I believe mobile phones will have a big role to play in the evolution of online car repair manuals. After all, apps are getting more popular these days, aren't they? Pretty soon, we'll have every piece of info we need available at the touch of a finger. It's all a matter of technology, and we've seen it evolve exponentially over this past decade. Pretty soon, I'm sure we'll be seeing some very awesome stuff—and that includes some pretty awesome online auto repair manuals for sure.

Okay, now I guess it's time to stop daydreaming. I remember I still have to fix that busted catalytic converter on my pickup truck.

[Video] Mitchell 1 DIY CM

Here's an online video for Mitchell 1 DIY (eAutorepair.net) if you want a more visual (albeit brief) guide on how that particular online auto repair manual looks like and feels like to use. It's more of a commercial, really, but hey, perhaps you would like to watch it after reading our own review of the Mitchell 1 DIY service.

Don't hesitate to hit up the link, watch the video, visit the site after you consider our review. It's really a solid service, although you might also want to check out our other takes on the different online repair manual services available out there.

More Online Repair Manuals

Competition is always a good thing. While we already have a wide array of online auto repair manuals and vehicle maintenance manuals, I think there is still a need for more service providers to come into the fray.

Take, for instance, the notion that most people already have Haynes in mind when you talk about or even mention automotive manuals. Well, that somehow tells us that Haynes barely gets any challenge from many of its competitors. This includes even those that are close to it in terms of renown, such as Alldata and Mitchell 1 DIY.

Or maybe we don’t even need a totally new online auto repair manual service provider now. Maybe we just have to see some of the mid-major type providers evolve and grow into a serious contender for the title. This means stepping up in a wide variety of ways in order to maximize the potential of the service and make it as palatable for consumers as possible.

We’ll see what happens as the market develops. There’s always the demand. It’s how the providers supply the products that will meet these demands that will dictate the direction that online auto repair manuals will take in general.

Better Comprehension of Online Repair Manuals

You don’t have to be a genius or a rocket scientist or even a highly experienced DIY mechanic just to understand online auto repair manuals. After all, these are tools that are intended to aid even those who are just now venturing into DIY auto repair and maintenance, a proper tool that will help inform and guide newbies and experts alike.

If you feel like you’re having a hard time grasping some concepts or remembering some of those very specific terms, you might just be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information that you have to absorb and everything isn’t really sinking in. The best thing to do in this instance would be to take a break and just move on to other things in the meantime. Then, when your mind is freshly rested, you can proceed from where you left off. Without a doubt, you’ll be able to comprehend things faster and easier now.

Consuming the info inside each and every online auto repair manual will definitely take some serious time away from doing anything else, so you’d better be prepared to make the investment. Add some more time to your estimates if you think you’ll be having a difficult time understanding the manual that you have. Anyway, the key here is to set a pace that’s just right for you—it shouldn’t be too fast that you don’t let anything sink in, nor should it be too slow that you won’t be getting any actual DIY repair or maintenance done within a reasonable time frame.

Better comprehension of the various online auto repair manuals requires a balance of your time so that you get enough work done. Don’t hesitate to adapt your schedule to suit your comprehension. In the long run, getting the right dose will prove instrumental in your growth as a DIY auto mechanic.

Finding Repair Manuals Never Used to be So Easy

The Google culture has made it possible to find practically anything on God’s green earth. From your old grade school classmates to the details on how you can survive an impending zombie apocalypse, everything is searchable using our beloved and preferred search engines. Even finding a specific online auto repair manual for your vehicle can be relatively easy nowadays.

Back then, when the Internet was never so omnipresent and indispensable, you’d really have to go out and order a printed manual for your vehicle. Getting a manual the manual way (no pun intended) is a bit tough, as you’re dependent on the suppliers and publishers as well as the available stock that they have.

With online auto repair manuals, there’s no wait needed most of the time. Just sign up, pay with your card or bank account or PayPal, and fire up the program after downloading. Voila! You have your information at the ready.

Of course, if you have a newer vehicle, you might have to wait until your vehicle’s year is covered by the manual service. Some, especially those who rely on complete teardowns and rebuild jobs to get accurate info, will really take a lot of time to get your ride’s info done. But hey—the tradeoff is a super-accurate online auto repair manual that you can really depend on for nearly any task.

So yeah, it’s almost too easy nowadays to find an online auto repair manual for your needs. Let’s not take this for granted and enjoy the convenience that comes with it, alright? Anyway, it's time to go. That's all for now. Look forward for more tips and tricks in the upcoming weeks.

Online Car Repair Manuals for Everyone

We’ve seen Mercedes-Benz do it with their cars—you know, all those fancy browser-based online interactive owner’s manuals. I don’t see how manufacturers can still not provide owners and mechanics with online car repair manuals that are specific to each vehicle. They’re even holding out important error code information that can help DIY mechanics or even professional auto shop mechanics diagnose problems accurately.

In this aspect, I think it’s high time that vehicle manufacturers make online car repair manuals available to everyone. Or at least provide them for vehicle owners so that they get an added advantage and so that they will be able to perform some of the tasks themselves to save money.

How can people master DIY car care and auto repair if the automakers won’t help them? Sure, they could always subscribe to paid manual providers that offer info from build-from-scratch methods, but I believe it would still be better if the manufacturers themselves provided this kind of information right from the get-go. Shouldn’t vehicle owners be entitled to information they’ll need to keep their car working properly?

Well, they do provide owner’s manuals, but a dedicated repair or maintenance resource could also be given to the millions of car owners out there. Then again, perhaps people won’t be investing in paid online auto repair manual subscriptions if they had this information available in the first place. But I can’t help but think that people still have to pay for things they should be given for free.

What do you think? Should automakers provide detailed online car repair manuals for their customers? Or should customers only opt to subscribe to paid third-party providers so they only need to decide when they actually need the subscription or the product? Anyway, we’ll leave you with that thought to ponder for tonight.

Updated Online Auto Repair Manuals

Even casual observers can see that automotive technology is evolving at unprecedented speeds. New features and tech come out each year. Just take that nifty new Magic Sky Control on the upcoming 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (it’s basically a sunroof that allows the driver to switch between transparent and opaque moods to suit his or her whim or mood).

That said, it is definitely important to have online auto repair manuals that are always updated (or at least periodically updated) so that pros and DIY mechanics alike can have access to the latest information. With all these advances in technology, it can be pretty easy to lose sight of all the developments and get lost in the midst of trying to troubleshoot ever-complex car components.

Keeping in step with the latest in automotive tech will empower DIY mechanics when it comes to performing repairs on even the most advanced of vehicle systems. When you’re confident that your online auto repair manual provider has you covered, you won’t have to worry too much even if there’s a complex part that you encounter a problem with.

Most vehicle model-specific online car repair manuals deal with particular problems encountered on those cars, and you shouldn’t have any problems when it comes to content since they do cover the stock systems that came with your car. This means that, unless you modified components or add some complex parts, you’ll find what you need in your manual.

Online repair manuals offer a wide range of information. Some of them are updated with new info when it’s available, so if you want to stay on top of things, better choose a repair manual online that has the option of being updated with current info. This way, you won’t lose track of the developments particularly when your vehicle is concerned.

Online Repair Manuals Out of Focus: Dealerships vs. Independent Shops 2

We’ve discussed the debate about which would be better to get your car serviced or repaired if your DIY skills simply can’t get the job done. There wasn’t really any conclusion, especially since we’re mostly concerned about online auto repair manuals in this blog.

We’ve mentioned that it is way cheaper to go to independent repair shops for periodic maintenance, servicing and repair. Why? That’s because the mechanics at independent shops charge much less when it comes to labor costs. The rates, according to an AutoMD.com study, are around 20 percent lower at independents on average.

What you get with the higher cost of labor at dealerships is expertise. The mechanics and staff at dealerships know their $#!+. Aside from intensive brand-specific training, they also have access to the complete range of OEM info for the manufacturer’s vehicles. Plus, dealerships are currently privy to some exclusive error codes that will be essential in the diagnosis and troubleshooting of certain problems.

Of course, many people prefer the personal contact they get when dealing with their mechanic of choice. It’s true that you only get to talk to receptionists at dealerships in most cases, so you might want to get the personal reassurance from your mechanic when something goes wrong in your vehicle.

The thing here is that both independent repair shops and high-priced dealerships have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. It’s really up to you to choose where you want to get your car serviced or repaired when you can’t do the task yourself. We still prefer DIY, of course, but sometimes you really have to go get some professional help. When that happens, we hope you consider all your options carefully so you can decide on the best route to take.

Online Repair Manuals Out of Focus: Dealerships vs. Independent Shops?

DIY efforts are all good—you have your garage, your tools, your shiny new aftermarket auto parts and accessories, and your trusty ol’ online auto repair manual. Still, there will come one task that eventually stumps you and leaves you unable to solve the problem. When that happens, you will have to have your ride fixed by someone else.

When do you decide, and which one should you pick? Do you really go all the way to the dealership where you got your ride or do you leave it in the hands of a (hopefully trusted) mechanic. Did you know that 7 out of 10 vehicle owners prefer to go to independent repair or service professionals instead of to their dealer even if their cars are still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

Of course, there’s a law that ensures that dealers will still honor the warranty in most cases even if you opted to have your car serviced and repaired at places other than the dealership. Just keep in mind that you stick to repairs and maintenance that won’t really cause a voided warranty. You’ll need to know the specific warranty terms on your car so you’ll know what to avoid. That’s where the owner’s manual comes in. After all, the manual—online or printed—is the one thing that can show you every detail about your car, including important warranty coverage information.

Dealers do have something going for them: they sometimes have access to exclusive info and you are sure that your car will be serviced by trained professionals. This training is specific to your dealer, so the dealer’s technicians and mechanics have more insider info and knowledge about your particular vehicle. This should make up for a steeper labor charge.

So, deciding between independent shops and your designated dealer should be done with care. Know all the facts, and don’t hesitate to consult your manuals.

Seek Quality Info from Paid Online Repair Manuals

Like all references and source material, online auto repair manuals aren’t made equal in terms of the amount of content and the quality of that content. Some are more detailed and thorough, while others take a step back and look at the bigger picture with a more generic take on the subject matter as compared to their competitors. See, that’s the deal when it comes to paying for an online auto repair manual subscription—you have to make sure that you’re getting your money’s worth in when it comes to content quality and coverage.

There’s nothing like shelling out a big chunk of money every month for a substandard product. It just makes you want to punch somebody in the face. That’s exactly what you’ll feel when you subscribe to an online car repair manual provider and you find that its contents are not what you’re looking for or that the content doesn’t really provide what you need to perform even some common DIY tasks on your vehicle. You have to be more vigilant when you look at these online manuals and their sites. Don’t be taken in by marketing pitches alone. That’s why there are reviews, so you can make an informed decision after considering a lot of major and minor factors.

Content is still king—at least when it comes to online car repair manuals. That’s what you have to keep in mind the next time you Google for an online repair manual service and even think about entering your credit card information and hitting the checkout button on that online vehicle repair manual subscription. Be an informed consumer, even if you have to spend hours deciding on which service to patronize. It’s your money, after all—and you’ll be the one regretting if you don’t get the content your money is worth.

Mastering DIY Using Online Manuals

For people who are going to engage in DIY tasks for repairing, maintaining or modifying their vehicle, having trusted online auto repair manuals is essential. While it is not required, we’ve said over and over again what a great boon these online manuals can be to your efforts.

Online car repair manuals don’t just offer a breadth of automotive, often vehicle-specific, information for you. There are also illustrations that will help guide you, and some online services even provide some videos for extra value and to make your job a bit easier.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, as they say. The same thing can be said for a DIY mechanic’s skill set and knowledge. You’ll need to build up know-how and experience as you go along, and online automotive repair manuals are excellent tools that can really help you get the job done.

Reading up on your ride’s particulars will allow you to know its ins and outs, and this will help you better deal with problems when they arise. That’s the beauty of having the convenience of online car repair manuals, because you can brush up on your technical know-how anytime you want as long as you’ve got a decent access to the Internet.

It’s not hard to master DIY auto repair if you have a good source material, and one such source that will really be able to contribute to your growth and mastery is a good online auto repair manual. Don’t hesitate to look for one that you can use for your ride’s specific model year and model because it will really prove its worth in the long run. Even if you go the paid subscription route, you’ll find that it is money well spent because you have access to detailed info that you can use for practically any DIY task.

DIY is easier with Online Auto Repair Manuals

One point we’ve been trying to completely drive home is that you’ll be able to perform a wide variety of DIY automotive tasks with the help of online auto repair manuals. We’ll constantly keep “reminding” you of this as we go along, no matter how many times we need to repeat and repeat and repeat it. As long as it works, right?

There’s no need to be afraid of DIY Auto repair as long as you have the tools you’ll need to do the job (and as long as it is within the capacity of the DIY mechanic to pull off; after all, there are certain tasks that simply call for the help of an auto repair shop that has the kind of heavy duty equipment that most DIY mechanics simply don’t have and can’t afford).

Knowledge is one of the most important things here. You may start out with zero skill, but if you take the time to read up and gain the knowledge you need to perform your own repairs and maintenance tasks, you’ll be able to learn the ropes eventually. Just make sure you put in the work; there’s no use subscribing to an online auto repair manual service if you’re not even going to try and read it or understand the text.

Additionally, simply getting an online auto repair manual isn’t enough. You need to make sure that what you have contains quality and accurate information. Otherwise, you’ll just be stumbling like a blind man. If you go for the free online repair manuals, make sure you check them for quality and accuracy. For paid subscriptions, make sure you carefully pick a service that has all the stuff you’ll need and require.

Once you have the tools, the rest should follow—and you’ll be well on your way to a happy DIY mechanic experience.

We're taking a break from all the online auto repair manuals once again in order to showcase another cool commercial from Super Bowl XLV:

Lesson: Don't Mess with Pugs! Hahaha

Enjoy! :D Don't worry, we'll be back to regular programming next post :p

Cool VW Super Bowl Spot: The Force

Okay, so this doesn't really have anything to do with online auto repair manuals, but it's just too cool not to post!

Oh yeah, by the way, congrats to all the Green Bay Packers fans reading this online repair manuals blog. That was a great game; Aaron Rodgers was very, very good and the team really deserved the Super Bowl win. Too bad for the Steelers; I used to be a Ben Roethlisberger fan, but now I don't really get to follow football all that much.

The Importance of User Interface in Online Repair Manuals

Just like all of the other types of computer applications, online auto repair manuals need to have a good user interface design. This is because the user interface, or UI for short, has a direct impact on the user experience and how easily the owner can use the manual for his or her benefit.

Usability is a primary component of user experience. Here’s how Wikipedia defines usability:

Usability is the ease of use and learnability of a human-made object. The object of use can be a software application, website, book, tool, machine, process, or anything a human interacts with.

It’s all about how the user interacts with the software; in this case, it’s the online repair manual. Does it have the appropriate buttons or links where the user can easily see them? Are the menus clear and easy to navigate? Does the layout of the online repair manual work well? These are some factors that affect usability.

Of course, unless there are screenshots of a particular online repair manual, you likely won’t be able to know whether the one you get is user-friendly or not. I guess that’s where reviews come in. Usually, though, screenshots are usually not enough to truly gauge how effective a particular online repair manual’s UI design is. Still, it lets you have a feel or at least an inkling of what you’ll be seeing if you ever choose that certain online service.

Usability and user interface design definitely a big part of the consideration for which online repair manuals to subscribe to. Who’d want to use something that operates in a clumsy and clunky manner, right? So, the next time you look for a good online car repair manual for your DIY endeavors, make sure you try to find some images of how the program actually looks like.

The Coffee Shop Mechanic

A weird thought crept into my mind just a while ago as I took a cab to work because I have yet to fix my 2008 Ford Taurus, and it has to do with this particular scene you see often, whether in real life or in fiction (films, TV series, sitcoms, even books and short stories). A lone writer is sitting inside a coffee shop (Starbucks, or some other) and he is writing on a notebook or working on his laptop (or netbook, or what have you) while a Venti-sized cup of caramel macchiato lies to his right. Cliché, right?

Well, here’s something that might not be so cliché. Picture the same scene, but this time, it’s not a writer that’s sitting there with his favorite caffeine source. What we have now is an auto mechanic, chilling as he browses through his online repair manuals to see what he has to do to fix a certain issue or to install a replacement component in place of a failed one.

See, that’s the wonder of technology—anyone with the will to learn can use it to make life better or easier. With our easy access to online auto repair manuals, anything is possible. You can even go to the can and take a dump with your laptop in tow. No time wasted!

Not that I’m saying you should troop down to the local coffee shop and leech off their broadband connection over Wi-Fi every time something goes wrong with your car; all I’m saying is that having 24-7 access to online repair manuals, online service manuals and other stuff afforded by your subscription is definitely something you can enjoy practically anywhere there’s an Internet connection.

Plus, the image of the DIY mechanic brushing up on his tech skills in a cozy couch sipping coffee is really quite nice, especially if you’re a mechanic like me who doesn’t really have a comfortable chair in his garage (not even a stool—which reminds me, I should get one when I have extra cash).

The Importance of User Interface in Online Repair Manuals

Just like all of the other types of computer applications, online auto repair manuals need to have a good user interface design. This is because the user interface, or UI for short, has a direct impact on the user experience and how easily the owner can use the manual for his or her benefit.

Usability is a primary component of user experience. Here’s how Wikipedia defines usability:

Usability is the ease of use and learnability of a human-made object. The object of use can be a software application, website, book, tool, machine, process, or anything a human interacts with.

It’s all about how the user interacts with the software; in this case, it’s the online repair manual. Does it have the appropriate buttons or links where the user can easily see them? Are the menus clear and easy to navigate? Does the layout of the online repair manual work well? These are some factors that affect usability.

Of course, unless there are screenshots of a particular online repair manual, you likely won’t be able to know whether the one you get is user-friendly or not. I guess that’s where reviews come in. Usually, though, screenshots are included on most product pages. You can also try searching Google Images and see if there are any screenshots for the online car repair manual you want to research about.

Personally, I value accuracy of the content more than good user interface design. After all, you would certainly much rather have accurate information than a pretty manual. Still, having a good UI is really helpful, and it can certainly make the life of DIY mechanics much easier.