Like it or not, most of us are dependent on automobiles. These complicated machines need regular maintenance, and even when they get it, sometimes they just stop working, usually when you're on your way to someplace important. What a drag. Even if your car starts driving funny or breaks down, you still need to get there. It can be scary and frustrating. Fortunately, learning about cars is easier than you might think. The more you know about your own car, the greater your peace of mind. You don't need to be a mechanical genius to understand the basics of owning and maintaining a car. I'm not talking about buying tools and learning how to fix your car. Just a little knowledge can save you a great deal of hassle and money. - Introduction.