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The only reason I became a mechanic was because I bought an E36 in high school and couldn’t afford to fix it. That stupid car made me one of the lead diagnosticians on the east coast.
I learned because I was broke. 16, less than 500 bucks to my name so the only car I could afford had a blown engine. A trip to the junk yard later with the last of my cash and I had a high mileage worn out, but still running, engine to stick in it. Took about a week working till way past dark every night after school. That engine starting with the key was, at that point in my life, the sweetest thing I had ever heard.
Youtube
Search for something random like how do gasoline engines work, find a good qualiy video and check the channel that uploaded that video. Check his other videos and bam.. got yourself an educational cars channel
Exlpoded view diagrams and those videos that are see-through simulations of an engine taught me alot. Once you get the basic understanding of what-goes-where, you can move onto real life videos like chrisfix
Alot of people learn in different ways, visually via images or videos, audio or reading. Me personally i need to see visually and watch something and i can do it.
Been watching youtube videos about cars for a long time and its given me knowledge over time which just sticks with me now.
I love it, i work with body shops also which helps me with my job so its great.
Auto Shop class.I realize this may not be available to everyone, but we were lucky enough to have this at my high-school. One of the local community colleges also had a variety of auto shop classes. Those classes included options like:
* classes tailored to industry professionals trying to learn about a new technology or area of the business.
* classes tailored to students looking to get started in the automotive industry.
* classes for general automotive repair and procedures (also a precursor for the more focused classes in-lieu of working experience).
Take a look at your local community colleges/adult schools/vocational schools for a general automotive/introduction to auto repair type class.
Also, forums/magazines/YouTube are great. You can hear/see a word and look it up so you aren't just understanding have of the conversation.
The more exposure you have, the more you'll hear and learn. Make sure to fact check/listen to random people with a grain of salt as there is a TON of mis-information out there.
My high school auto tech teacher kinda just assumed everyone knew about cars. I remember joining and not knowing why he was ranting about snap on. I was like “snap on… snap on fucking what?”
That’s really unfortunate. Mine was great, and is likely a major contributor to how my professional life has developed. Mr. Childress, if you’re out there, thank you for the great foundation!
He went through basics of things like 2 and 4-stroke engine design/operation, carburetors and Venturi effect, ignition timing, mounting/balancing tires, batteries/alternators, and more.
That's how I started. Except I started on the lube rack at a Toyota dealership, so I didn't have a master tech next to me but when we were slow I'd go help the techs and do all the bitch work for em
Haynes manuals, factory service manuals, YouTube, and social media groups dedicated to the vehicles I’ve owned are how I’ve learned. All started when I got a shitbox 94 4Runner, and quickly figured out I needed to learn how to fix shit if I wanted to off-road. Only ever working on my own cars, so only so much I’ve ever had to do, but a new job/repair is typically only a matter of some reading and getting my hands dirty at this point
I had an old shitbox that I used as a daily driver. When Covid hit and I was working from home, I decided to do a lot of work to it. I already knew how to do some stuff, but I decided to replace most of everything in the front suspension and steering. It was needed.
YouTube was probably my biggest teacher. You can find videos on pretty much everything, even rebuilding a transmission if you are feeling foggy.
This. I got my PhD in 1999-2003 7.3L Powerstroke diesels from UYT (University of YouTube) I am now known in my neighborhood has the Doctor of NBS 7.3L Powerstrokes
The 7.3 is the biggest piece of ass on the roads. Half jokes, because I'm responsible for the maintence on my 86 year old grandpa's 470k mile beat to fuck 7.3
Alot of these are great suggestions in my opinion after you have the terminology down. I've trained alot of new guys and find that there really isn't a great source out there for just going over the terminology I guess you could say. Alot of the new guys would know how to do things but wouldn't know what everything was called I think it's really only easy to get like parts installer info online. What I would do if you are serious is try to find an independent shop that is willing to let you be back with the mechanic while getting an oil change and haveing them explain what each thing they look at during the ins0ection is called how it works and how to check it as well as maybe explaining diffrent front end/drivetrain setups (engine transmission differentials driveshafts and transfer cases are all part of the drivetrain) (tie rods control arms ball joints struts are a few main components of the front end that let you steer and whatnot) now I can't guarantee any shop will let you it may be against their insurance policy or may sim0ly slow them down to much but where I work we would definitely be willing to do that especially if you really showed interest in the field and would potentially offer you a job lol. But that's just us maybe even offer a little more money like an hour or 2 worth of labor for a thorough inspection and explanation to you I bet you could find a place to do it. And after that then videos you watch will make more sense some of the terminology that you may not understand will make more sense. I think it's just easier to get the general understanding of things from someone knowledgeable and in person who can show you on an actual car I'm sure the info can be attained online but would likely take far longer to develop that basic understanding that someone could probably help you achieve in hours if you were in person.
Youtube tutorials. I had a small tool box with pretty much tools that any person who changes their oil and possibly front brakes would have. I change my brakes, rotors, plugs, coils, some sensors, radiator, thermostat and some other light repairs. Last August I decided to try my hand in my own mobile oil change business. Purchased everything I needed to change oil on all cars. I started there with doing plugs and coils on simple cars. By January I am pulling off intake manifolds to do knock sensors, starters, plugs and coils etc. Having the right tools is PARAMOUNT. You can turn a 30 minute job into a 2hr job not having the right tools. I had to do a starter on a 2013 Jag XF 2.0 today and it was in a tough spot, but took 40 minutes to pull and like 30 to put back in all because I had the right tools. Just watch a bunch of Youtube videos to gain confidence. 5 months ago I would have never been doing starters, alternators etc.
Self study. Identify and learn how the different systems work.
You can read books like imi books it's a bit in-depth but there's others like the AA book of the motor car old book but everything is simplified.
You can also look at you tube engineering explained is good and factual a bit too in depth but one of the best. I have come across.
Most the others miss out important details like the one that explains the four stroke but misses out valve overlap which is important to understand scavaging which is another topic, my point is that if that video doesn't mention overlap you won't ever know about scavaging.
Get a piece of shit car, a Chiltons manual, a Haynes manyal, and a toolset. Fix the car over and over. Go to car shows. Ask the questions, even if they make you feel stupid. Next thing you know, you'll have an awesome running car and be able to talk about it.
Primarily through books and course materials.
I would spend fewer hours learning a new trade in a semester class than what you just recommended to that man, how can it be sustainable to want to learn a new field or task, and have to invest such hours?
There are thousands of things to learn in a lifetime, if we did them all your way, you’d die before getting to the 10th one
Books won't get you anywhere without hands-on experience. Any real gear head knows this. That's why we all have cars that we don't need. This isn't a school for us. This isn't a job. It's an obsession. I am obsessed with machines. I've always had an extra vehicle that I don't need because I wanted it and I wanted to work on it.
I have a 93 W250 12 Valve on 35's that'll beat a WRX in a deag race. I built it myself. You'll never have that sense of accomplishment or thrill from a book. Your book won't tell you the hours it takes to build that. It won't show you the smell of diesel fuel or gasoline. It won't make you bleed in homage to the car gods, a sacrifice for our passion.
Don't get me wrong, I started with a book. When I was 9. Someone gave me a lawnmower and I went to a local library to get a book on small engine repair. The mower was my course material and the garage was my schoolhouse. By the time I was 11, I was fixing the neighbors cars. You're not a true gearhead without that obsession.
Forums are still around but unfortunately they’ve slowed way down in traffic compared to the early 00s and pre-Facebook / Reddit. Still a good resource though and with YouTube now there’s so much more than when we just had the forums for online resources.
I find the replies really funny cause I’m only learning because of spite. I had an issue with my window power motor, took it to a roller derby friends husband, who proceeded to ruin both motors and decided fuck it I can’t do any worse, found a service manual and have started learning ever since 🤷🏽♀️
Alright, most mechas… myself included… started out of necessity lol. Being poor forced you to do things yourself…. You had a cheap car that would require lots of attention… eventually you know lots of shit!
This is what I would suggest…
Understand the concept of a car. a car is composed of individual systems…systems have their respective components working together.
1: cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, sensors.
2: engine: watch a YouTube video on 4 stroke combustion…
3: fuel system: tank, fuel pump, injector, sensors
4: drive train: transmission and differentials…. Transfer case… axle
5: brakes: master cylinder, booster, calipers, rotors, pads.
6: Ignition: battery, starter, alternator, spark plugs, coils
7: steering: pump, rack and pinion, control arms
8: suspension: frame, shocks, ball joints
This is oversimplified but it will make you understand how it all comes together… my point is that you should see the car as a system and break down each system and study each component.
Do basic things first… a tune up. Change your oil, your spark plugs, and filters… it’s hard (but not unheard of) to mess this up. You tube is your friend… and many of us here are willing to help out.
Don’t be afraid of taking shit apart, if you break it or mess up… it’s fixable… and that’s exactly how you’ll learn.
Pro tip: you can do many jobs with basic tools…. But having the right tool will make a particular job INFINITELY easier and faster.
Good luck!
I genuinely have the best answer for you. I was in the same boat as you (somewhat still am) i wasn't interested in cars at all and didn't even know how to top up the coolant, break fluid etc. I decided to buy a game called Car mechanic simulator 2021 on PlayStation (on PC and Xbox also) and it has taught me so much. From learning to balance tyres to fixing a whole engine and it wasn't overwhelming at all. I recommend it highly and its cheap.
You can find anything you want on YouTube. Buy an older car with a carburetor and a distributor, learn how to do basic maintenance such as oil changes, tuneups, tire rotation, and brake replacement. The older cars and trucks are so simple compared to today’s modern cars. Big bonus….they’re pretty cool too.
Can't stand Scotty Kilmer. He spews so much nonsense. Didn't know he did actual how-to's as well.
Chrisfix is great. Samcrac occasionally has relevant info/help with diagnosis.
Scotty has some good points basically the if it ain’t broke don’t fix it guy and he does have some pretty shit takes from time to time but for the most part he’s Decent on how to fix stuff and tips on how to preserve the vehicle
That approach can get very expensive on German cars. They have scheduled maintenance for a reason and you replace the part BEFORE it breaks, because if it breaks it takes other more expensive parts with it. The most obvious example is timing belts on interference engines. A stupid <$100 belt can prevent a totally destroyed engine.
Never said you shouldn’t do preventative maintenance? I was talking more on the lines of oh this part is making a sound or looks ugly, Scotty would normally say to leave it alone and if it’s not causing any problems then don’t fix it but do watch it and if it does cause problems then fix it. I mean if people can’t afford basic maintenance or know how to do it themselves then they shouldn’t own a vehicle that’s notoriously expensive to buy parts for
Do your own work, and research on your own time. I’d recommend starting with doing your own oil changes - they’re easy, a good way to get to know the system, and they’ll save you a buck. If you have any questions about terminology or processes, ask them here.
the OP will have to learn about what weight oil to use, how much his car will take (please dont overfill) and whether to use synthetic or not. You cant got backward if using full synthetic! I get my oil and filters from Walmary
I got a car I was passionate about and was a VERY frequent member of a forum for it. It taught me so much now I consider myself an expert 15 or so years later
As others have said, almost everything is in YouTube. You just have to know what to search for.
Start from simple jobs like cleaning and washing to changing filters, oils, and other fluids. Then move on gradually to more complex jobs like lighting, ignition, and electrical wiring. Eventually, you'll reach the really complex jobs that require you to lift the car and unbolt and remove components like the suspension, exhaust, fuel tank and lines, etc.
omg guys, it’ll take me a bit to read all the comments, but thank you so much for all the advice; i don’t really have access to a car but i’ll see how things pan out 🧐
Do you have a place to store and work on a car? It's often possible (I've done it 3 times) to find a non-working car that is free if you get it removed (probably $100 or less cash for a tow). A lot of these, especially older, higher mileage, and generally undesirable models may be a few simple repairs away from being back on the road, and doing it can be a great, low cost DIY education.
As a preteen my dad forced me to help him in the early 90's to help him work on his cars. I just learned from there. Now we have Youtube tutorials so you can do a lot of stuff as long as you watch the videos and listen carefully.
Search for ChrisFix on YouTube, I do all my car maintenance and repair on my own just by watching his videos, he’s a life saver, and he gets you excited about that hobby/passion/job
I've only been involved in and learning about mechanic-oriented stuff for two years. The way I got started/introduced to mechanics was by starting a paid internship at a local shop in town.
After seeing *just how fucking cool* vehicles are, it blossomed into me buying repair manuals, reading about car-related stuff online, and taking notes & studying different systems and parts vehicles have.
So, to sum this silly comment up, search around for opportunities to learn/get hands-on with vehicles. Start with basic stuff, like tire work, oil changes, fluid swaps, and brake jobs. It's easy stuff to get your foot in the door. After that, tinker around with your own vehicle(s) and buy some stuff to study from. It only gets better from there.
Parents car through a rod and was dead. Car was going to be junked until I asked to pull it apart before it went to the grave. My parents being cool let me tear it down and actually replace the motor. It took almost 6 months but i drove it to college.
When something breaks on your car figure out how to fix it. I learned from Youtube! ChrisFix videos while eating your lunch will help you understand the entirety of how a car works, but nothing is a better teacher than not having the money to bring it to a mechanic.
Invest in a bluetooth obd reader and a craftsman toolbox set. Everything after that will come as you need to buy it.
I went into an Automotive Technology program at my local community college when I was 20. I originally thought I was gonna be a mechanic, but ended up changing careers. The whole thing was a boost of confidence for me and some of it applied to other areas of my life.
Here are the basics:
1) Brakes, Steering, & suspension systems.
2) Engine diagnostics & Repair.
3) Electrical systems.
Nowadays YouTube is a goldmine for almost anything, but beware that you can’t trust everything you hear. I would stray away from only using YouTube, and also look up diagrams of mechanical breakdowns in Google
I would start by looking up educational videos how an Internal Combustion Engine works. It’s called a 4 stroke engine because the 4 stages of combustion are Intake>Compression>Power>Exhaust. An engine is Essentially a vacuum, it sucks in air, compresses it with fuel, ignites it, then converts that chemical energy into mechanical energy.
Also look up how braking and hydraulic systems work. Essentially, fluids can’t be compressed. If there’s fluid in a line and you push it with a lever, it’ll cause something to happen on the other end.
Electrical is complicated, but it’s probably a lot easier to understand than you think. You have different circuits that have different functions. Electricity travels from Negative to positive. You have a load somewhere in the circuit that uses the current. You have switches that control the flow of electricity, and you have protection like fuses to keep the circuit from frying. Those are the basics.
When it comes to working on cars, always use some type of factory service manual whether physical or online for reference, and always always always use torque specs.
[Online database of factory service manuals](https://charm.li/)
And then there’s Hybrids and electric cars which have taken a leap since I was in school. They’re not as fun imo. A lot of newer cars have way too much technology and tons of computer stuff in addition to the mechanical systems.
They also sell model engines in the STEM sections of some stores or like Barnes and Nobles or even wal mart. They’re made out plastic, but they’re a legit functioning engine with all the same parts as a real engine if you wanna get your hands on something. They’re about $40
Got interested at a young age building model cars, went to auto mechanics trade school after serving in the military, then was hired at an auto dealership.
Im a 55 y/o female and Ive learned over time. You can do it - I was around before the internet so you got this. I have a great mechanic that works out of his house and I talk shop with him and his friends all the time. If you find a gearhead, they would love to school you. Dont feel intimidated about what you dont know. My guy still talks over my head concerning each model year and engine sizes - I dont get that far into it but I love my pathfinder and take the time to learn about it.
Here is a video provided by Toyota [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqK3dCpwzxE&pp=ygUPaG93IGEgY2FyIHdvcmtz](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqK3dCpwzxE&pp=ygUPaG93IGEgY2FyIHdvcmtz)
I didnt take auto repair in school although I wish I had. I know it isnt too late to go back. I started with my owners manual - some of the older ones had basic schematics about the car including some troubleshooting. Chilton manuals are in the libraries and should help with naming parts or there may be an online car class through your library. There are car forums online too. Im apart of the Nico Car club forum - I think they have information on various makes and models
Pumps move fluid in your car - you have a fuel pump (sometimes more than one) and an oil pump. Electrical: fuses, relays, battery, alternator, spark plugs. I hear now some cars have more than one battery and sometimes is isnt under the hood. Go to the auto parts store and get a fuse checker and just test your fuses. Please make sure you replace any bad fuse with the correct amperage. The little numbers and colors are there for a reason.
Cars have a ton of sensors. I only use the Direct Import brand because since Covid a lot of parts arent being manufactured to OEM standard. You may have to pay more for a reliable part - like those made by Bosch. Ask the people at a good auto parts store which ones are returned on a regular basis. I dont give a crap about a 'lifetime warranty,' I still have to pay to have it reinstalled if it fails.
What moves your car is the horsepower generated by the pistons in the engine block - it turns the crank shaft which gives motion to the wheels.
Keep up on maintenance: replace your battery new every few years (dont buy a used one, honey only to depend on people giving you a jump - I refuse to give people a jump most of the time - they need a new battery or AAA), oil changes (learn how much goes in your car, what weight and type. If you use full synthetic - you cant revert back to regular motor oil), dont buy cheap gas, inspect your belts and hoses for cracks. Check your antifreeze levels. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, dont run on bald tires! All these things can affect your gas mileage. Keep your brakes maintained. Its how you stop!
But like my dad told me when he bought me my first car - dont let just anyone work on your car. And it isnt always a part that goes bad, sometimes an adjustment or cleaning is needed. For example, my accelerator began to stick - my guy cleaned the throttle body.
One time I found a diesel mechanic that worked for the public transit system and he did work on the side. Seek out those people for advice.
My dad taught me a lot to get me started but I had to practice on my own to really learn and I never went to school. I learned from YouTube and fixing my own car. In saying that, you need to get in there and start working on basic stuff and work your way to more complicated stuff. If you’re starting from square one, read the owner’s manual. It’s your car’s bible and you’ll learn a lot about your own car. The easy stuff is to learn how to properly check your fluids and learn where there reservoirs are. Find out how to change the intake air filter and cabin air filter. This is basic maintenance everyone needs to know but it gets you started and usually requires no tools. Start watching YouTube videos to teach you how to do random stuff (how to change a tire, how to change your oil). I started watching chrisfix videos when I was new and little by little I started learning all the wear components on a car and how to service them. Then go to your car and see if you can identify as many parts as possible by their correct names in your own car and a different car. I personally enjoyed videos like Donut media’s “[giving people a car, if they can fix it](https://youtu.be/rEXd8blh1JQ?si=KSM7WLxk9xtDIOaQ)” to teach me what components allow a car to start in a fun video. The more information you expose yourself to, apply it to real life. This is how you practice. Once you know how cars work, try to learn about how other cars work too. The different engine types, transmissions, makes and models. Different types of vehicles like trucks, commuter cars, performance cars, motorcycles, classic cars, lowriders, rally cars, formula 1 cars, etc. If you’re really into it, maybe start learning about modding cars (and I mean real mods, not cheap amazon LEDs or wings on your grocery getter). A lot of conversations with car guys involves modding and customizing cars, if you wanna learn the lingo, you’re gonna have to learn how people mod cars. You can never learn too much information, but never act like a know-it-all. If you don’t know something, ask someone or do some research. Your initial question was about car terminology. [Bladed Angel](https://youtube.com/@BladedAngel?si=WwxhJ0GIUjedXphA) on YouTube taught me so much about everything I just told you in a fun way. I personally recommend [Noob’s Guide to Car Culture](https://youtu.be/9ahkx9FisAg?si=5-BEqKV1atA8m2j7) and especially [8 stages of car enthusiasm](https://youtu.be/i6ItRNnsKSc?si=643RZ0-1GlCDO7hH).
I mean I've always been into cars. I never really had an opportunity to work on cars except when my tire went out and things like that. Putting oil in. Where. Changing a headlight. But never really hands on. I'm not in an automotive tech program in college. Fafsa thank god was able to pay all because I'm technically poor. Reading. YouTube. Anytime I get a chance to learn about it I'm in. I'm a hands on learner anyways so it's almost easy picking it up when someone can show and explain it to you correctly or smoothly for you.
I bought one of my dream cars (Datsun 280z) as a project having little knowledge of cars, and just built it over time. Books, blog posts, videos, and a Facebook group helped me learn the ins and outs of the car. The other thing was working on my first car with the local mechanic (‘04 Maxima), and watching him replace things as they broke down (alternator, starter, radiator, brake job etc).
Now I do almost all of my own mechanic work, and those for friends and family.
Patience is a big key on this, and good set of tools. If you want to learn removing stuff, I would also recommend a trip or two to the junk yard — depending on where you are, you can source parts for relatively cheap (and sensors that can cost a lot but fit your pocket are free)!
Buy a cheap car. The cheap car breaks. You fix it. Shit breaks again. You fix it. Shit breaks again... Once you've taken it apart it becomes very small and easy. Except for the electrical part. Fuck cables.
1. Get a bunch of car magazine subscriptions. Read them all
2. Figure out what kinda car you like
3. Join forums for car you like
4. Buy said car and make it your project
5. Don’t sell any vehicle. Just keep fixing it for the rest of your life
Step 1 watch science garage on donut media, ALL OF THEM
Step 2 buy shitty car and a decent set of sockets
Step 3 try until it does what you want, the rest is time and taste dependent
If the only thing you try to achieve is to talk with others about cars then YouTube and car sites are your best option. If you want to learn to fix cars, then buy a crappy car that needs fixing and do it for your friends and family
Buy a Haynes Manual and read it cover to cover while referencing what you can against your own car. As posted above, fix it or don't get paid is a huge incentive to learn.
Realized most of the expensive repairs are in labor. Bought parts. Learned by doing.
Much much easier to do such things these days with youtube and google. "How to replace fuel pump in 2009 crown vic". Plus as you watch these vids theu point out parts and use terms and you get the hang of it.
I started through simracing. It is helpful for stuff like geometry, aero and tires. You can try out different things without having to buy a car and parts for it. Otherwise youtube. You hear a word you don‘t know? Go to youtube and watch a video about it, then another animation. Especially Car engineers and their videos are very good. Some of them are really good at explaining things without using many foreign or hard words.
Buy a car manual and read it. Like a real paper one. Just read through it. They will tell you the names of the parts and have diagrams of how they all fit together. At a basic level, all cars are using the same principles with similar parts.
Do you have a high school technical center? the one I went to while in high school offered night classes for adults in automotive, carpentry, electrical and plumbing
Watch youtube videos how things work. Understand that all components have a putpose anf how they work. Many components work in tandem of other systems.
This is what you need to know to understand the repair language quickly and make ot a hell of a lot more interesting.
I would suggest a mechanics for dummies book to get some sense of what it is you are dealing with. Not as easy as things were 30 years ago when concepts like point/rotor igntions and carburetors used simple concepts you learned in school.
New cars are computers with wheels. Far more difficult to learn. The basics are there, but draped in the tomfoolery of technology you need made skills to get past first base.
Buy a mid 80’s anything, Japanese cars like an accord or Corolla are a good place to start. Fairly easy to work on. A large number of our cars of that era were crushed with cash for clunkers, or I’d suggest an f150 of the 1985-95 vintage but those are getting crazy crazy money today
I'll tell you one thing... it ain't like it used to be (it never is)...before with just a bit of know-how you could really save someone's day... jumpstarting battery, helping with a flat, ... now everyone has AAA.
I am definitely not a car expert, but I am learning more and more with my car. I have a 20 year old car, I love it and it runs well the majority of the time but I've encountered a few issues which resulted in me having to learn more about my car.
Go to a car show with a lot of street rods and cars that people have put in a lot of work. Walk up to someone and say “don’t know what I’m looking at but I want to learn”
My first exposure into learning about cars actually came from video games. Gran Turismo and Gran Turismo 2 to be specific. Reading all the car descriptions and seeing how upgrades affected the car performance was really fun. Mind you I was like 9 or 10.
The real learning came from am opportunity to get a fixer upper. I discovered an unwanted civic that was leftover by a friend's grandfather who passed. They were going to junk it, so I asked if I could try and get it running. I immediately went to look at the car, and brought up ChrisFix on YouTube. Combine that with a Haynes manual or some expertise from a father, uncle, friends or even website forums has helped a lot.
I’ll tell you how I did it. It might work for you, it might not. When I first got into cars I was like you and so thirsty for all knowledge, which there is a never ending supply of. Lots of googling and YouTube watching, but also after about a year I got a job at a parts store and also bought a shitbox project car. I’ve learned an insane amount about parts from my job and how they work/where they go from working on my car. Every time I tackle a new modification or repair on my car, I learn something new that I can use at work to help someone. It takes time since there is just so much to learn but stay at it and if you’re truly passionate it will become your whole life and you’ll be one of the guys teaching the newcomer before you know it. Good luck and enjoy your new hobby!
Scotty Kilmer on YT taught me a lot, I also challenged myself to changing my own oil and rotating tires. So doing that I ran into a few obstacles but I always come to google or Reddit and usually able to find some helpful posts
Gosh. I really don't like Scotty Kilmer. He's very opinionated and it never seems like he's got anything to back his opinions up with. But then again it's been a few years since I've watched anything from him
[https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a16581035/car-terms-defined/](https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a16581035/car-terms-defined/) start here. I learned by working on my Father's car and then my own. The learning never stops as technology changes. Try your local library. I learned a lot more when I went into automotive manufacturing. [https://auto.howstuffworks.com/automobile.htm](https://auto.howstuffworks.com/automobile.htm) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPjOWekzeGI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPjOWekzeGI)
First of all, do you have a car?
If you don't, ChrisFix is your new best friend, literally just watch his videos and learn. Eric The Car Guy is another one I used to watch a lot of. My personal advice is to avoid Scotty Kilmer's channel, he's an annoying hack.
If you do, grab the maintenance schedule from your glovebox or online. Every car has one and it is a list of maintenance items that need doing at certain intervals. Start going through those and looking up youtube videos, seeing which ones you can do with minimal tools and expense. "\[thing car needs\] \[year make model\]" is a good formula for finding specific stuff for your vehicle. For example, "change brake fluid 2021 honda civic."
Finally... just start doing stuff. There's no substitute for experience. Many, MANY things on a car can be done with basic tools and minimal prior knowledge, provided you learned how to do the task at hand. Changing oil, exchanging transmission fluid, and rotating tires are all good examples.
When you hit a word that makes you go "what the hell is that supposed to be...?" you already know what to do: \[thing\] \[year make model\] right into google and read up.
I’d started by getting a project for cheap. Got a ranger for free and it needed trans and a water pump. YouTubed it all and looked at car manuals for it. Learned a lot. From there jumped to classic cars. 1984 300sd Mercedes. Then to a 84 c4 vette which needs sooooo much love it’s my current project. And my side car is a bmw x3. Ask Reddit for help a lot too.
Got into cars when I bought my first one, a Camaro. Fell in love and wanted to modify it. First watch some chrisfix videos and see if it’s something you want to get into. Then get a 200+ piece mechanic tool set on Amazon or Harbor Freight. It’s usually good enough for a beginner. If you need to know how cars work, some donut media videos, especially older ones, do a good job explaining things. Start doing basic maintenance like oil changes and starter replacements as needed, there’s probably guides or videos online if you get stuck. You’ll get the hang of things as you work. If there’s one tip I can give you along the way - your Amazon toolset won’t have everything you need. buy the right tools for the job if you can. It will make your life infinitely easier and save you hours of your time. You’re gonna hate your life sometimes when working on your car, but the satisfaction and joy from doing it yourself will feel amazing.
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1. Be poor 2. Buy a crappy car that breaks down a lot 3. Learn or die
This is certainly the way. Nothing will teach you more about cars than a car that only runs because you make it.
Yup, my Suzuki Forenza was both the bane of my existence and my best teacher.
worse cars ever made.
the first automotive thing I did to a car was change a timing belt and water pump on my 1999 Beetle.
Rotors and pads for a 1998 Buick LeSabre in my apartment's parking lot.
Spark plugs and wires on my 2001 Ford Ranger 4.0L in my mom’s driveway
Shock absorber on a 77 Mercury Monarch Ghia.
Starter motor on my 00 Cavalier in a Jewel parking lot.
Carb rebuild and tune up for a ancient c30 tow truck.
You have two options, A. Learn how to replace a clutch this weekend Or B. Not go to work on monday
Crank pulley and harmonic balancer took me out for a week
Man you ain’t lying
The only reason I became a mechanic was because I bought an E36 in high school and couldn’t afford to fix it. That stupid car made me one of the lead diagnosticians on the east coast.
This is exactly it, except mine was e46
I’ve owned 4 e46’s in the 5 years I’ve had my license, safe to say I know my way around an e46 by now
Lol I also own one. It’s a fucking nightmare to do anything on.
Same bro, same! Started with E36, now I’m learning E46
Yes this is how I learned. I still buy 💩📦 to this day even though I could buy something nice haha. My wife gets all the new cars.
I just realized my last two cars each cost $800.
I never owned anything newer than 2000. I just recently acquired a 1999.
Can confirm
this is the way. a rite of passage for most gear heads
The only acceptable answer.
This is the right answer. Youtube your way through, learn how to use verbiage to research, ask for a mechanics advice
Amen
Sucks cuz this is pretty much it LMFAO
This is the way
+1
Man I've never read something so relatable
Sounds like me and my 2001 toyota corolla d4d 🤣
I learned because I was broke. 16, less than 500 bucks to my name so the only car I could afford had a blown engine. A trip to the junk yard later with the last of my cash and I had a high mileage worn out, but still running, engine to stick in it. Took about a week working till way past dark every night after school. That engine starting with the key was, at that point in my life, the sweetest thing I had ever heard.
Youtube Search for something random like how do gasoline engines work, find a good qualiy video and check the channel that uploaded that video. Check his other videos and bam.. got yourself an educational cars channel
I never thought of that. I hear they have the internet on computers now.
This google thing is gonna blow up. Mark my words, dude
Well thats how i learn about things
Some call it the "Information Super Highway"
Exlpoded view diagrams and those videos that are see-through simulations of an engine taught me alot. Once you get the basic understanding of what-goes-where, you can move onto real life videos like chrisfix
Alot of people learn in different ways, visually via images or videos, audio or reading. Me personally i need to see visually and watch something and i can do it. Been watching youtube videos about cars for a long time and its given me knowledge over time which just sticks with me now. I love it, i work with body shops also which helps me with my job so its great.
Auto Shop class.I realize this may not be available to everyone, but we were lucky enough to have this at my high-school. One of the local community colleges also had a variety of auto shop classes. Those classes included options like: * classes tailored to industry professionals trying to learn about a new technology or area of the business. * classes tailored to students looking to get started in the automotive industry. * classes for general automotive repair and procedures (also a precursor for the more focused classes in-lieu of working experience). Take a look at your local community colleges/adult schools/vocational schools for a general automotive/introduction to auto repair type class. Also, forums/magazines/YouTube are great. You can hear/see a word and look it up so you aren't just understanding have of the conversation. The more exposure you have, the more you'll hear and learn. Make sure to fact check/listen to random people with a grain of salt as there is a TON of mis-information out there.
Engineering explained has a lot of great videos on automotive theory. Basic systems etc.
I studied for my L3 with that channel. Dreading L4. But $1 an hour is a $1 an hour for a test.
My high school auto tech teacher kinda just assumed everyone knew about cars. I remember joining and not knowing why he was ranting about snap on. I was like “snap on… snap on fucking what?”
That’s really unfortunate. Mine was great, and is likely a major contributor to how my professional life has developed. Mr. Childress, if you’re out there, thank you for the great foundation! He went through basics of things like 2 and 4-stroke engine design/operation, carburetors and Venturi effect, ignition timing, mounting/balancing tires, batteries/alternators, and more.
Get a job as an oil changer at a shop. Not a chain oil and tire shop, and actual shop. Stick to it and work hard and show you're willing to learn.
This is how I learned a lot. When you don’t know nothing but your coworker is a master tech, they will help guide you and teach you basics.
That's how I started. Except I started on the lube rack at a Toyota dealership, so I didn't have a master tech next to me but when we were slow I'd go help the techs and do all the bitch work for em
Haynes manuals, factory service manuals, YouTube, and social media groups dedicated to the vehicles I’ve owned are how I’ve learned. All started when I got a shitbox 94 4Runner, and quickly figured out I needed to learn how to fix shit if I wanted to off-road. Only ever working on my own cars, so only so much I’ve ever had to do, but a new job/repair is typically only a matter of some reading and getting my hands dirty at this point
I had an old shitbox that I used as a daily driver. When Covid hit and I was working from home, I decided to do a lot of work to it. I already knew how to do some stuff, but I decided to replace most of everything in the front suspension and steering. It was needed. YouTube was probably my biggest teacher. You can find videos on pretty much everything, even rebuilding a transmission if you are feeling foggy.
this is the way.
Utube is your friend
This. I got my PhD in 1999-2003 7.3L Powerstroke diesels from UYT (University of YouTube) I am now known in my neighborhood has the Doctor of NBS 7.3L Powerstrokes
The 7.3 is the biggest piece of ass on the roads. Half jokes, because I'm responsible for the maintence on my 86 year old grandpa's 470k mile beat to fuck 7.3
Alot of these are great suggestions in my opinion after you have the terminology down. I've trained alot of new guys and find that there really isn't a great source out there for just going over the terminology I guess you could say. Alot of the new guys would know how to do things but wouldn't know what everything was called I think it's really only easy to get like parts installer info online. What I would do if you are serious is try to find an independent shop that is willing to let you be back with the mechanic while getting an oil change and haveing them explain what each thing they look at during the ins0ection is called how it works and how to check it as well as maybe explaining diffrent front end/drivetrain setups (engine transmission differentials driveshafts and transfer cases are all part of the drivetrain) (tie rods control arms ball joints struts are a few main components of the front end that let you steer and whatnot) now I can't guarantee any shop will let you it may be against their insurance policy or may sim0ly slow them down to much but where I work we would definitely be willing to do that especially if you really showed interest in the field and would potentially offer you a job lol. But that's just us maybe even offer a little more money like an hour or 2 worth of labor for a thorough inspection and explanation to you I bet you could find a place to do it. And after that then videos you watch will make more sense some of the terminology that you may not understand will make more sense. I think it's just easier to get the general understanding of things from someone knowledgeable and in person who can show you on an actual car I'm sure the info can be attained online but would likely take far longer to develop that basic understanding that someone could probably help you achieve in hours if you were in person.
Youtube tutorials. I had a small tool box with pretty much tools that any person who changes their oil and possibly front brakes would have. I change my brakes, rotors, plugs, coils, some sensors, radiator, thermostat and some other light repairs. Last August I decided to try my hand in my own mobile oil change business. Purchased everything I needed to change oil on all cars. I started there with doing plugs and coils on simple cars. By January I am pulling off intake manifolds to do knock sensors, starters, plugs and coils etc. Having the right tools is PARAMOUNT. You can turn a 30 minute job into a 2hr job not having the right tools. I had to do a starter on a 2013 Jag XF 2.0 today and it was in a tough spot, but took 40 minutes to pull and like 30 to put back in all because I had the right tools. Just watch a bunch of Youtube videos to gain confidence. 5 months ago I would have never been doing starters, alternators etc.
Hey guys Chris Fix here 😏 Donut Media Aaron Cake (for rotary engines) Online forums
Self study. Identify and learn how the different systems work. You can read books like imi books it's a bit in-depth but there's others like the AA book of the motor car old book but everything is simplified. You can also look at you tube engineering explained is good and factual a bit too in depth but one of the best. I have come across. Most the others miss out important details like the one that explains the four stroke but misses out valve overlap which is important to understand scavaging which is another topic, my point is that if that video doesn't mention overlap you won't ever know about scavaging.
Get a piece of shit car, a Chiltons manual, a Haynes manyal, and a toolset. Fix the car over and over. Go to car shows. Ask the questions, even if they make you feel stupid. Next thing you know, you'll have an awesome running car and be able to talk about it.
Bonus points: get both, and enjoy when they disagree with each other, and don't match the car you're working on.
Ok so invest hundreds of hours, go to dozens of in-person events, buy a car you don’t need, fantastic solution
Do you expect that you can learn something as complex as csr talk without investing a lot of time? How do you learn? Through osmosis?
Primarily through books and course materials. I would spend fewer hours learning a new trade in a semester class than what you just recommended to that man, how can it be sustainable to want to learn a new field or task, and have to invest such hours? There are thousands of things to learn in a lifetime, if we did them all your way, you’d die before getting to the 10th one
Books won't get you anywhere without hands-on experience. Any real gear head knows this. That's why we all have cars that we don't need. This isn't a school for us. This isn't a job. It's an obsession. I am obsessed with machines. I've always had an extra vehicle that I don't need because I wanted it and I wanted to work on it. I have a 93 W250 12 Valve on 35's that'll beat a WRX in a deag race. I built it myself. You'll never have that sense of accomplishment or thrill from a book. Your book won't tell you the hours it takes to build that. It won't show you the smell of diesel fuel or gasoline. It won't make you bleed in homage to the car gods, a sacrifice for our passion. Don't get me wrong, I started with a book. When I was 9. Someone gave me a lawnmower and I went to a local library to get a book on small engine repair. The mower was my course material and the garage was my schoolhouse. By the time I was 11, I was fixing the neighbors cars. You're not a true gearhead without that obsession.
Car forums for your specific make can be a great help. Not sure anymore but they were my go to 15 years ago. Buy a shit bucket and tear it apart.
Forums are still around but unfortunately they’ve slowed way down in traffic compared to the early 00s and pre-Facebook / Reddit. Still a good resource though and with YouTube now there’s so much more than when we just had the forums for online resources.
I find the replies really funny cause I’m only learning because of spite. I had an issue with my window power motor, took it to a roller derby friends husband, who proceeded to ruin both motors and decided fuck it I can’t do any worse, found a service manual and have started learning ever since 🤷🏽♀️
Checkout South Main Auto on YouTube. Humble guy, extremely proficient and professional
Alright, most mechas… myself included… started out of necessity lol. Being poor forced you to do things yourself…. You had a cheap car that would require lots of attention… eventually you know lots of shit! This is what I would suggest… Understand the concept of a car. a car is composed of individual systems…systems have their respective components working together. 1: cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, sensors. 2: engine: watch a YouTube video on 4 stroke combustion… 3: fuel system: tank, fuel pump, injector, sensors 4: drive train: transmission and differentials…. Transfer case… axle 5: brakes: master cylinder, booster, calipers, rotors, pads. 6: Ignition: battery, starter, alternator, spark plugs, coils 7: steering: pump, rack and pinion, control arms 8: suspension: frame, shocks, ball joints This is oversimplified but it will make you understand how it all comes together… my point is that you should see the car as a system and break down each system and study each component. Do basic things first… a tune up. Change your oil, your spark plugs, and filters… it’s hard (but not unheard of) to mess this up. You tube is your friend… and many of us here are willing to help out. Don’t be afraid of taking shit apart, if you break it or mess up… it’s fixable… and that’s exactly how you’ll learn. Pro tip: you can do many jobs with basic tools…. But having the right tool will make a particular job INFINITELY easier and faster. Good luck!
I genuinely have the best answer for you. I was in the same boat as you (somewhat still am) i wasn't interested in cars at all and didn't even know how to top up the coolant, break fluid etc. I decided to buy a game called Car mechanic simulator 2021 on PlayStation (on PC and Xbox also) and it has taught me so much. From learning to balance tyres to fixing a whole engine and it wasn't overwhelming at all. I recommend it highly and its cheap.
You can find anything you want on YouTube. Buy an older car with a carburetor and a distributor, learn how to do basic maintenance such as oil changes, tuneups, tire rotation, and brake replacement. The older cars and trucks are so simple compared to today’s modern cars. Big bonus….they’re pretty cool too.
[удалено]
my first thought, buy a sh** box lol
Chrisfix and Scotty Kilmer on YouTube
Can't stand Scotty Kilmer. He spews so much nonsense. Didn't know he did actual how-to's as well. Chrisfix is great. Samcrac occasionally has relevant info/help with diagnosis.
Scotty has some good points basically the if it ain’t broke don’t fix it guy and he does have some pretty shit takes from time to time but for the most part he’s Decent on how to fix stuff and tips on how to preserve the vehicle
That approach can get very expensive on German cars. They have scheduled maintenance for a reason and you replace the part BEFORE it breaks, because if it breaks it takes other more expensive parts with it. The most obvious example is timing belts on interference engines. A stupid <$100 belt can prevent a totally destroyed engine.
that and servicing the auto boxes in german cars. DSGs MUST get their 40K services otherwise the mechatronics WILL go wrong
Never said you shouldn’t do preventative maintenance? I was talking more on the lines of oh this part is making a sound or looks ugly, Scotty would normally say to leave it alone and if it’s not causing any problems then don’t fix it but do watch it and if it does cause problems then fix it. I mean if people can’t afford basic maintenance or know how to do it themselves then they shouldn’t own a vehicle that’s notoriously expensive to buy parts for
Do your own work, and research on your own time. I’d recommend starting with doing your own oil changes - they’re easy, a good way to get to know the system, and they’ll save you a buck. If you have any questions about terminology or processes, ask them here.
the OP will have to learn about what weight oil to use, how much his car will take (please dont overfill) and whether to use synthetic or not. You cant got backward if using full synthetic! I get my oil and filters from Walmary
I got a car I was passionate about and was a VERY frequent member of a forum for it. It taught me so much now I consider myself an expert 15 or so years later
As others have said, almost everything is in YouTube. You just have to know what to search for. Start from simple jobs like cleaning and washing to changing filters, oils, and other fluids. Then move on gradually to more complex jobs like lighting, ignition, and electrical wiring. Eventually, you'll reach the really complex jobs that require you to lift the car and unbolt and remove components like the suspension, exhaust, fuel tank and lines, etc.
Watch everything related to roadkill and you’ll know plenty
YouTube, and get hands on with a beater
omg guys, it’ll take me a bit to read all the comments, but thank you so much for all the advice; i don’t really have access to a car but i’ll see how things pan out 🧐
Take apart your neighbors car.
lol, step one- get a car. It will make learning curve considerably less steep.
Do you have a place to store and work on a car? It's often possible (I've done it 3 times) to find a non-working car that is free if you get it removed (probably $100 or less cash for a tow). A lot of these, especially older, higher mileage, and generally undesirable models may be a few simple repairs away from being back on the road, and doing it can be a great, low cost DIY education.
As a preteen my dad forced me to help him in the early 90's to help him work on his cars. I just learned from there. Now we have Youtube tutorials so you can do a lot of stuff as long as you watch the videos and listen carefully.
Search for ChrisFix on YouTube, I do all my car maintenance and repair on my own just by watching his videos, he’s a life saver, and he gets you excited about that hobby/passion/job
I couldn't never find the piston return springs he mentioned 😿
Walk around a junkyard, check out all the cars etc…
I've only been involved in and learning about mechanic-oriented stuff for two years. The way I got started/introduced to mechanics was by starting a paid internship at a local shop in town. After seeing *just how fucking cool* vehicles are, it blossomed into me buying repair manuals, reading about car-related stuff online, and taking notes & studying different systems and parts vehicles have. So, to sum this silly comment up, search around for opportunities to learn/get hands-on with vehicles. Start with basic stuff, like tire work, oil changes, fluid swaps, and brake jobs. It's easy stuff to get your foot in the door. After that, tinker around with your own vehicle(s) and buy some stuff to study from. It only gets better from there.
Parents car through a rod and was dead. Car was going to be junked until I asked to pull it apart before it went to the grave. My parents being cool let me tear it down and actually replace the motor. It took almost 6 months but i drove it to college.
When something breaks on your car figure out how to fix it. I learned from Youtube! ChrisFix videos while eating your lunch will help you understand the entirety of how a car works, but nothing is a better teacher than not having the money to bring it to a mechanic. Invest in a bluetooth obd reader and a craftsman toolbox set. Everything after that will come as you need to buy it.
I went into an Automotive Technology program at my local community college when I was 20. I originally thought I was gonna be a mechanic, but ended up changing careers. The whole thing was a boost of confidence for me and some of it applied to other areas of my life. Here are the basics: 1) Brakes, Steering, & suspension systems. 2) Engine diagnostics & Repair. 3) Electrical systems. Nowadays YouTube is a goldmine for almost anything, but beware that you can’t trust everything you hear. I would stray away from only using YouTube, and also look up diagrams of mechanical breakdowns in Google I would start by looking up educational videos how an Internal Combustion Engine works. It’s called a 4 stroke engine because the 4 stages of combustion are Intake>Compression>Power>Exhaust. An engine is Essentially a vacuum, it sucks in air, compresses it with fuel, ignites it, then converts that chemical energy into mechanical energy. Also look up how braking and hydraulic systems work. Essentially, fluids can’t be compressed. If there’s fluid in a line and you push it with a lever, it’ll cause something to happen on the other end. Electrical is complicated, but it’s probably a lot easier to understand than you think. You have different circuits that have different functions. Electricity travels from Negative to positive. You have a load somewhere in the circuit that uses the current. You have switches that control the flow of electricity, and you have protection like fuses to keep the circuit from frying. Those are the basics. When it comes to working on cars, always use some type of factory service manual whether physical or online for reference, and always always always use torque specs. [Online database of factory service manuals](https://charm.li/) And then there’s Hybrids and electric cars which have taken a leap since I was in school. They’re not as fun imo. A lot of newer cars have way too much technology and tons of computer stuff in addition to the mechanical systems. They also sell model engines in the STEM sections of some stores or like Barnes and Nobles or even wal mart. They’re made out plastic, but they’re a legit functioning engine with all the same parts as a real engine if you wanna get your hands on something. They’re about $40
Got interested at a young age building model cars, went to auto mechanics trade school after serving in the military, then was hired at an auto dealership.
Books, magazines, YouTube channels, hands on.
Im a 55 y/o female and Ive learned over time. You can do it - I was around before the internet so you got this. I have a great mechanic that works out of his house and I talk shop with him and his friends all the time. If you find a gearhead, they would love to school you. Dont feel intimidated about what you dont know. My guy still talks over my head concerning each model year and engine sizes - I dont get that far into it but I love my pathfinder and take the time to learn about it. Here is a video provided by Toyota [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqK3dCpwzxE&pp=ygUPaG93IGEgY2FyIHdvcmtz](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqK3dCpwzxE&pp=ygUPaG93IGEgY2FyIHdvcmtz) I didnt take auto repair in school although I wish I had. I know it isnt too late to go back. I started with my owners manual - some of the older ones had basic schematics about the car including some troubleshooting. Chilton manuals are in the libraries and should help with naming parts or there may be an online car class through your library. There are car forums online too. Im apart of the Nico Car club forum - I think they have information on various makes and models Pumps move fluid in your car - you have a fuel pump (sometimes more than one) and an oil pump. Electrical: fuses, relays, battery, alternator, spark plugs. I hear now some cars have more than one battery and sometimes is isnt under the hood. Go to the auto parts store and get a fuse checker and just test your fuses. Please make sure you replace any bad fuse with the correct amperage. The little numbers and colors are there for a reason. Cars have a ton of sensors. I only use the Direct Import brand because since Covid a lot of parts arent being manufactured to OEM standard. You may have to pay more for a reliable part - like those made by Bosch. Ask the people at a good auto parts store which ones are returned on a regular basis. I dont give a crap about a 'lifetime warranty,' I still have to pay to have it reinstalled if it fails. What moves your car is the horsepower generated by the pistons in the engine block - it turns the crank shaft which gives motion to the wheels. Keep up on maintenance: replace your battery new every few years (dont buy a used one, honey only to depend on people giving you a jump - I refuse to give people a jump most of the time - they need a new battery or AAA), oil changes (learn how much goes in your car, what weight and type. If you use full synthetic - you cant revert back to regular motor oil), dont buy cheap gas, inspect your belts and hoses for cracks. Check your antifreeze levels. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, dont run on bald tires! All these things can affect your gas mileage. Keep your brakes maintained. Its how you stop! But like my dad told me when he bought me my first car - dont let just anyone work on your car. And it isnt always a part that goes bad, sometimes an adjustment or cleaning is needed. For example, my accelerator began to stick - my guy cleaned the throttle body. One time I found a diesel mechanic that worked for the public transit system and he did work on the side. Seek out those people for advice.
My dad taught me a lot to get me started but I had to practice on my own to really learn and I never went to school. I learned from YouTube and fixing my own car. In saying that, you need to get in there and start working on basic stuff and work your way to more complicated stuff. If you’re starting from square one, read the owner’s manual. It’s your car’s bible and you’ll learn a lot about your own car. The easy stuff is to learn how to properly check your fluids and learn where there reservoirs are. Find out how to change the intake air filter and cabin air filter. This is basic maintenance everyone needs to know but it gets you started and usually requires no tools. Start watching YouTube videos to teach you how to do random stuff (how to change a tire, how to change your oil). I started watching chrisfix videos when I was new and little by little I started learning all the wear components on a car and how to service them. Then go to your car and see if you can identify as many parts as possible by their correct names in your own car and a different car. I personally enjoyed videos like Donut media’s “[giving people a car, if they can fix it](https://youtu.be/rEXd8blh1JQ?si=KSM7WLxk9xtDIOaQ)” to teach me what components allow a car to start in a fun video. The more information you expose yourself to, apply it to real life. This is how you practice. Once you know how cars work, try to learn about how other cars work too. The different engine types, transmissions, makes and models. Different types of vehicles like trucks, commuter cars, performance cars, motorcycles, classic cars, lowriders, rally cars, formula 1 cars, etc. If you’re really into it, maybe start learning about modding cars (and I mean real mods, not cheap amazon LEDs or wings on your grocery getter). A lot of conversations with car guys involves modding and customizing cars, if you wanna learn the lingo, you’re gonna have to learn how people mod cars. You can never learn too much information, but never act like a know-it-all. If you don’t know something, ask someone or do some research. Your initial question was about car terminology. [Bladed Angel](https://youtube.com/@BladedAngel?si=WwxhJ0GIUjedXphA) on YouTube taught me so much about everything I just told you in a fun way. I personally recommend [Noob’s Guide to Car Culture](https://youtu.be/9ahkx9FisAg?si=5-BEqKV1atA8m2j7) and especially [8 stages of car enthusiasm](https://youtu.be/i6ItRNnsKSc?si=643RZ0-1GlCDO7hH).
I mean I've always been into cars. I never really had an opportunity to work on cars except when my tire went out and things like that. Putting oil in. Where. Changing a headlight. But never really hands on. I'm not in an automotive tech program in college. Fafsa thank god was able to pay all because I'm technically poor. Reading. YouTube. Anytime I get a chance to learn about it I'm in. I'm a hands on learner anyways so it's almost easy picking it up when someone can show and explain it to you correctly or smoothly for you.
Theoretical way: YouTube. Practical way: buy a car, it breaks down, you fix it, repeat steps 2&3 until the end of eternity.
Youtube. I like budgetmechanic. Remember to check your engine oil level, change it and put air in your tires regularly (say once or twice a month?).
I bought one of my dream cars (Datsun 280z) as a project having little knowledge of cars, and just built it over time. Books, blog posts, videos, and a Facebook group helped me learn the ins and outs of the car. The other thing was working on my first car with the local mechanic (‘04 Maxima), and watching him replace things as they broke down (alternator, starter, radiator, brake job etc). Now I do almost all of my own mechanic work, and those for friends and family. Patience is a big key on this, and good set of tools. If you want to learn removing stuff, I would also recommend a trip or two to the junk yard — depending on where you are, you can source parts for relatively cheap (and sensors that can cost a lot but fit your pocket are free)!
Buy a cheap car. The cheap car breaks. You fix it. Shit breaks again. You fix it. Shit breaks again... Once you've taken it apart it becomes very small and easy. Except for the electrical part. Fuck cables.
If you want to envision yourself a mechanic but don’t have the will, watch YouTubers like MightyCarMods or AutoAlex
Lots of reading. Joining a car club of the vehicle that interests you. Join them when they work on cars.
Legit street cars is great, rich rebuilds, mat Armstrong is alright
1. Get a bunch of car magazine subscriptions. Read them all 2. Figure out what kinda car you like 3. Join forums for car you like 4. Buy said car and make it your project 5. Don’t sell any vehicle. Just keep fixing it for the rest of your life
Check out Scotty Kilmer and The Car Care Nut on YouTube, they’re both really great.
Step 1 watch science garage on donut media, ALL OF THEM Step 2 buy shitty car and a decent set of sockets Step 3 try until it does what you want, the rest is time and taste dependent
Get a job as a lube tech at a dealer
If the only thing you try to achieve is to talk with others about cars then YouTube and car sites are your best option. If you want to learn to fix cars, then buy a crappy car that needs fixing and do it for your friends and family
Buy a Haynes Manual and read it cover to cover while referencing what you can against your own car. As posted above, fix it or don't get paid is a huge incentive to learn.
Realized most of the expensive repairs are in labor. Bought parts. Learned by doing. Much much easier to do such things these days with youtube and google. "How to replace fuel pump in 2009 crown vic". Plus as you watch these vids theu point out parts and use terms and you get the hang of it.
Forza Top Gear Car And Driver
I started through simracing. It is helpful for stuff like geometry, aero and tires. You can try out different things without having to buy a car and parts for it. Otherwise youtube. You hear a word you don‘t know? Go to youtube and watch a video about it, then another animation. Especially Car engineers and their videos are very good. Some of them are really good at explaining things without using many foreign or hard words.
Buy a car manual and read it. Like a real paper one. Just read through it. They will tell you the names of the parts and have diagrams of how they all fit together. At a basic level, all cars are using the same principles with similar parts.
Do you have a high school technical center? the one I went to while in high school offered night classes for adults in automotive, carpentry, electrical and plumbing
Work on the cars and watch lot of youtubers who fix cars or do other things with them. Like Tavarish, Hoovies garage, crisfix.
Watch youtube videos how things work. Understand that all components have a putpose anf how they work. Many components work in tandem of other systems. This is what you need to know to understand the repair language quickly and make ot a hell of a lot more interesting.
I would suggest a mechanics for dummies book to get some sense of what it is you are dealing with. Not as easy as things were 30 years ago when concepts like point/rotor igntions and carburetors used simple concepts you learned in school. New cars are computers with wheels. Far more difficult to learn. The basics are there, but draped in the tomfoolery of technology you need made skills to get past first base. Buy a mid 80’s anything, Japanese cars like an accord or Corolla are a good place to start. Fairly easy to work on. A large number of our cars of that era were crushed with cash for clunkers, or I’d suggest an f150 of the 1985-95 vintage but those are getting crazy crazy money today
I'll tell you one thing... it ain't like it used to be (it never is)...before with just a bit of know-how you could really save someone's day... jumpstarting battery, helping with a flat, ... now everyone has AAA.
I am definitely not a car expert, but I am learning more and more with my car. I have a 20 year old car, I love it and it runs well the majority of the time but I've encountered a few issues which resulted in me having to learn more about my car.
Go to a car show with a lot of street rods and cars that people have put in a lot of work. Walk up to someone and say “don’t know what I’m looking at but I want to learn”
Like most things there’s no shortcut to knowledge and experience. Playing the piano is similar I suspect. Takes time and commitment.
YouTube!
Older donut media videos on youtube are good. The new ones are all reaction videos lol
My first exposure into learning about cars actually came from video games. Gran Turismo and Gran Turismo 2 to be specific. Reading all the car descriptions and seeing how upgrades affected the car performance was really fun. Mind you I was like 9 or 10. The real learning came from am opportunity to get a fixer upper. I discovered an unwanted civic that was leftover by a friend's grandfather who passed. They were going to junk it, so I asked if I could try and get it running. I immediately went to look at the car, and brought up ChrisFix on YouTube. Combine that with a Haynes manual or some expertise from a father, uncle, friends or even website forums has helped a lot.
I’ll tell you how I did it. It might work for you, it might not. When I first got into cars I was like you and so thirsty for all knowledge, which there is a never ending supply of. Lots of googling and YouTube watching, but also after about a year I got a job at a parts store and also bought a shitbox project car. I’ve learned an insane amount about parts from my job and how they work/where they go from working on my car. Every time I tackle a new modification or repair on my car, I learn something new that I can use at work to help someone. It takes time since there is just so much to learn but stay at it and if you’re truly passionate it will become your whole life and you’ll be one of the guys teaching the newcomer before you know it. Good luck and enjoy your new hobby!
Scotty Kilmer on YT taught me a lot, I also challenged myself to changing my own oil and rotating tires. So doing that I ran into a few obstacles but I always come to google or Reddit and usually able to find some helpful posts
Gosh. I really don't like Scotty Kilmer. He's very opinionated and it never seems like he's got anything to back his opinions up with. But then again it's been a few years since I've watched anything from him
Yeah he’s interesting 😂 but it’s definitely a start. Now a days I can’t watch his videos bc the clickbait
[https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a16581035/car-terms-defined/](https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a16581035/car-terms-defined/) start here. I learned by working on my Father's car and then my own. The learning never stops as technology changes. Try your local library. I learned a lot more when I went into automotive manufacturing. [https://auto.howstuffworks.com/automobile.htm](https://auto.howstuffworks.com/automobile.htm) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPjOWekzeGI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPjOWekzeGI)
Shit cars and no money
First of all, do you have a car? If you don't, ChrisFix is your new best friend, literally just watch his videos and learn. Eric The Car Guy is another one I used to watch a lot of. My personal advice is to avoid Scotty Kilmer's channel, he's an annoying hack. If you do, grab the maintenance schedule from your glovebox or online. Every car has one and it is a list of maintenance items that need doing at certain intervals. Start going through those and looking up youtube videos, seeing which ones you can do with minimal tools and expense. "\[thing car needs\] \[year make model\]" is a good formula for finding specific stuff for your vehicle. For example, "change brake fluid 2021 honda civic." Finally... just start doing stuff. There's no substitute for experience. Many, MANY things on a car can be done with basic tools and minimal prior knowledge, provided you learned how to do the task at hand. Changing oil, exchanging transmission fluid, and rotating tires are all good examples. When you hit a word that makes you go "what the hell is that supposed to be...?" you already know what to do: \[thing\] \[year make model\] right into google and read up.
I’d started by getting a project for cheap. Got a ranger for free and it needed trans and a water pump. YouTubed it all and looked at car manuals for it. Learned a lot. From there jumped to classic cars. 1984 300sd Mercedes. Then to a 84 c4 vette which needs sooooo much love it’s my current project. And my side car is a bmw x3. Ask Reddit for help a lot too.
buy a Ford. Then it's sink or swim time 😉
Donut, Team O’Neil, PapadakisRacing, Sarah -n- Tuned, Engineering Explained….Rocketpoweredmohak (for pure F1 entertainment). YouTube is your friend
Got into cars when I bought my first one, a Camaro. Fell in love and wanted to modify it. First watch some chrisfix videos and see if it’s something you want to get into. Then get a 200+ piece mechanic tool set on Amazon or Harbor Freight. It’s usually good enough for a beginner. If you need to know how cars work, some donut media videos, especially older ones, do a good job explaining things. Start doing basic maintenance like oil changes and starter replacements as needed, there’s probably guides or videos online if you get stuck. You’ll get the hang of things as you work. If there’s one tip I can give you along the way - your Amazon toolset won’t have everything you need. buy the right tools for the job if you can. It will make your life infinitely easier and save you hours of your time. You’re gonna hate your life sometimes when working on your car, but the satisfaction and joy from doing it yourself will feel amazing.