A lot of people these days tend not to know anything about cars.  I think it’s because of how computerized cars have become — they’re much harder to work on than the older, simpler cars, so I think the knowledge is less accessible for most people, and they just don’t try.

But knowing about cars really is important, even in today’s world — or perhaps especially in today’s world.  I hear so many stories about mechanics and garages taking advantage of unwitting customers.  If you are to make sure you are NOT being taken advantage of, you really need to make sure you know at least the basics about cars — even if you don’t intend to ever work on them.

Learning about cars really isn’t difficult.  Most of the principles are pretty simple — it’s simply a matter of understanding how the system works.  Knowing a little bit about common problems in cars is also a good idea, since you’ll want to know whether your mechanic is BSing you.  For instance, many brake places will try to sell you a brand new set of discs every single time you have your brakes done, but that isn’t necessary.  Usually the most that is needed is to have your brake discs turned (which means "resurfaced") by a machine — and sometimes even that isn’t necessary!

I hope this blog helps others learn more about cars — and avoid being taken advantage of!

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