Few auto manuals ever crack open their vehicle’s owner’s manuals, but those who do reap significant benefits. A manual can provide important information about a car’s features, help owners keep it running smoothly, and even improve its resale value.
Basic operating instructions – If you’ve forgotten how to operate the heated seats or you need to know the proper way to switch the radio source, a manual will show you. It can also give you a better understanding of the vehicle’s safety features, like airbags and seatbelts.
Maintenance schedules – Most cars require regular maintenance to keep them in top shape. A manual can tell you how often to check things like the oil, air filter, and spark plugs as well as when to change them. It can also give you a step-by-step guide for simple tasks, like changing the wiper blades or replacing a key fob battery.
Decoding Your Drive: Navigating the Essentials of Auto Manuals
Learning how to drive a stick shift – If you want to own a classic car or a quirky model that only comes with a manual transmission, you’ll need to learn how to operate one. It takes more attention and physical effort to drive a manual, but it can be rewarding over time.
If you can’t find the owner’s manual for your car, truck or SUV online, most automakers and third parties now offer free downloadable versions that cover at least the past decade. A good electronic version will allow you to search by keyword or phrase and will also personalize content based on your VIN number.
