How To Learn About Cars

 

Question:

Hi there, I’m Ann. I am tired of getting ripped off. Last week my 1970 Karmann Ghia VW stopped on me on the Freeway. I’ve had this car since 1997; and I just love it. A lot of people want to buy it. I had no idea it was a car that many people would want to use as a CLASSIC Project. I’ve been
using it to get around. I’ve had everything put in this car from new transmission to engine. You name it, I’ve had it put on my car. Since I’ve had the car for a while, I can just hear certain sounds and know that there is something wrong. Now last week when the car stopped on me, I knew it had to be something simple. AAA towed it to my house; I had a mechanic to come by the house and look at the car. Off the top, he was going to charge me $100 to tell me what was wrong. I called someone else over to the house to look at it because I felt this guy was trying to ripp me off so he could (PAY HIS BILLS). When this other mechanic finish looking at my car, he went over to his van, took out this piece of clapp, I can’t remember what he told me it was; that’s why I’m on line looking for some way to learn about this car, so I could do it myself. I’ve had it long enough, and I plan on not getting rid of it either. Do not want a car note. To make the long story short. He charged me $20 and left. I went to the parts store and saw this
little piece and it was around $3. I was so shocked. I told my husband we need to go to school for auto mechanics if we are going to keep these old cars. We could really save a lot of money. Now I want to know from you
WHERE DO I START? Do I need to take a auto mechanics class or go to school or will this online serve the purpose. I want to tune up my VW and change the oil.

Answer:

I would search for an online VW club that specializes in older VW’s. There may even be a Gia club in your area. This type of club can be a big help, and you may find some members who would help you learn more about your car. Typically the clubs have an online forum where you can ask questions, plus monthly gathering where you can show off your cars.

As for a manual, check with AllData.com and see if they cover back to 1970. If not, then a paper Haynes or Chilton manual would be the best bet for your car. These manuals usually have step-by-step instructions for most maintenance items. A local vo-tech may have a night course in auto maintenance which would be a good bet for you and your husband. I can tell you though, that if you find a fellow car club member, they can teach you just as much if not more than the classes, and it will be specific to you Ghia. We now offer a directory of Vo-tech Schools and Technical Colleges where you can get an education.

https://www.autoeducation.com/schools

Good Luck,
Kevin

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Posted: 7th April 2006  |  Author: Kevin Schappell  |  Category: Automotive Schools, Site News