Introduction 1 Part 1: Getting to Know Your Vehicle 5 CHAPTER 1: Introducing Essential Skills for Every Driver 7 CHAPTER 2: Conducting Preventive Maintenance 27 CHAPTER 3: Stocking the Modern Toolbox. 39 CHAPTER 4: From Start to Roar: How Your Car Springs to Life 61 Part 2: Powering Up with Air, Fuel, and Fire 81 CHAPTER 5: The Electrical System: Your Car's Digital Nerve Center 83 CHAPTER 6: Tuning Your Electrical System 109 CHAPTER 7: Re-imagining Fuel Systems 141 CHAPTER 8: Maintaining Your Fuel System 161 CHAPTER 9: Exhaust and Emissions: Cleaning Up after the Combustion Party 179 CHAPTER 10: Driving into the Future: A Deep Dive into EVs and Hybrids 195 CHAPTER 11: Delving into Diesels 211 Part 3: Staying Cool and In Control 229 CHAPTER 12: Inside the Cooling System: How Heat Moves and Parts Work 231 CHAPTER 13: Cool under Pressure: Real-World Maintenance and Troubleshooting 243 CHAPTER 14: Liquid Gold: The Lifeblood of Your Engine 261 CHAPTER 15: Brake Check: How Stopping Power Has Evolved 281 CHAPTER 16: Stop and Roll: Keeping Brakes and Bearings in Check 299 Part 4: Smoothing the Ride: Steering, Tires, and Transmissions 317 CHAPTER 17: Steering and Suspension Systems Smooth the Way 319 CHAPTER 18: Smooth Moves: Tires, Balance, and Alignment 339 CHAPTER 19: Shift Happens: Transmissions and Drivetrains 357 Part 5: Handling Car Crises and Choosing Help 377 CHAPTER 20: Staying Calm in Emergencies 379 CHAPTER 21: Decoding Leaks, Squeaks, and Strange Sensations 393 CHAPTER 22: What to Do If Your Car Drops Dead or Won't Start 401 CHAPTER 23: Picking the Right Mechanic 409 Part 6: The Part of Tens 417 CHAPTER 24: Ten Car Care Habits That Save You Money 419 CHAPTER 25: Ten Ways to Save Fuel and Energy 423 Appendix: Monthly Maintenance Checklist 427 Index 429.