Cars: Buy, Sell, Repair, Maintain and Learn about Autos
Everyone from the greasiest gearhead to the automotive layman will benefit from the Web's easy-to-use resources on cars. Research tools and classified listings abound for the car buyer: for the eager reader, breaking automotive news, commentary, and perspective via magazines and blogs, will keep you entertained and informed. Learn about these resources and more in the findingDulcinea Car Guide.
Expand All Guide SectionsCar Reviews and Automotive Information
Next time you're in the market for a new car, treat the Web as your definitive research source. ... read more »
Buying or Selling a Car
The Web is a vast automotive marketplace. Surfing online is the equivalent of strolling into a car ... read more »
Car Parts and Accessories
Hobbyists, automotive technicians, and casual do-it-yourselfers will find the Web's auto parts and ... read more »
Car Repair, Maintenance and Restoration
A number of sites contain information that can teach visitors about the basic systems and technologies that propel automobiles. Once you have the foundation, there are do it yourself online resources you can use to aid you in doing major and minor car repairs and performing regular maintenance. Or, maybe you just need to locate a mechanic.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Use the following sites to find both practical and technical automobile information.
- In addition to repair information, some of the sites listed below specialize in educating drivers about automotive safety and preparation. If you have questions about using car-seats and seat belts, or are unsure how to keep your car safe through periodic maintenance, visit those sites.
- Auto repair chains like Midas and Meineke have sites that explain the services they offer, list the products they sell, and help you find local branches.
- Two of the bigger nationwide parts chains, AutoZone and Pep Boys, have customer repair information on their Web sites. AutoZone's "Repair Info" section has interactive repair guides for a long list of makes and models. In the Pep Boys "Learning Center" you'll find articles on car care safety, repair, maintenance, and more.
Dulcinea's Picks
For finding a mechanic ...
CarTalk.com , the Internet home of the famous radio show, has a "Recommended Mechanic" locater found midway down its homepage. Extensive results listings include ratings and comments from regular people who've already had their cars serviced by the garage in question.
The International Automotive Technicians' Network is the world's largest association of professional automotive technicians. The organization’s site is useful for locating members in your area; use the “Repair Shop Finder” on the left side of the page.
The National Institute for Automtive Service Excellence 's certification exams test the knowledge of automotive technicians in their fields of specialty. Use this site to learn about the certification program, or to locate an ASE Certified mechanic in your area.
The NASCAR Performance Network is a network of certified mechanics and garages around the country. Enter your location and the nature of the work your car requires, and NASCAR will offer advice on where to go.
For DIY advice ...
How Stuff Works has a succinct explanation of how cars work. While this article won't "wow" any engineering students, it's a good introduction for the automotive amateur. The site covers how engines work, how windshield wipers work, and various topics in between.
Inner Auto is an auto parts retailer with guides that introduce various car parts with short descriptions. These descriptions outline the primary functions of each part, how it relates to the overall working of the car, and what could result if the part malfunctioned. Check along the bottom of the homepage for more neat features. "How cars work 101" has fantastic illustrated diagrams that explain how the primary systems within cars work. "Animations" has animated diagrams that showing how components like V8 engines and wheel drive powertrains work. "Definitions" is a comprehensive glossary of automotive terms.
AutoShop101 is an automotive training Web site written and maintained by automotive technology professor Kevin Sullivan. The site has step-by-step tutorials that explain the scientific and technological principles that contribute to the operation of a car. Also useful is the large categorical links section.
All Data DIY is an online automotive repair database. Their exhaustive holdings come in the form of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) service manuals, Technical Service Bulletins, recall notices, illustrated diagrams and repair procedures, maintenance schedules, diagnostic charts, and much more. A troubleshooting guide walks you step by step through the process of diagnosing and repairing car problems. Access to this service requires paying a subscription fee of $24.99 for your first car, and $14.95 for each additional.
AllData is an automotive information portal. Through AllData's sub-sites, AllDataDIY.com, AutoZone.com, and ProCarCare.com, visitors can learn how to diagnose and repair malfunctioning car parts, purchase car parts and accessories, and locate auto repair shops in their area. AllData also has an area with information for automotive professionals.
Buying and Selling Collector Cars
For classic car enthusiasts, the Web is a great forum for interacting with other collectors, ... read more »
Auto News and Commentary
Car blogs provide entertaining news through their unique editorials on the daily happenings of the ... read more »
Finding the Cheapest Gas Prices
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