Self Drive Camping
HOME - NEWS - editor@selfdrivecamping.co.uk - SITE MAP
Haynes Car Book
Everything you need to know about owning and maintaining your car.
Haynes Car Book

 

External Link
This is a book that will not only fit most gloveboxes, but at less than ten pounds, most pockets as well.


Covering the main aspects of car ownership and general maintenance it is a worthwhile addition to the library of all car owners and drivers. It is not vehicle specific so it's as valuable to the owner of a Mini as it is to the owner of a Maserati, or for that matter a Transit or a Trabant. Just don't leave it in the car when you sell it. Whatever the make or model of your next vehicle, this book will be equally suitable.

It's certainly no workshop manual but the depth of detail and information present is more than adequate for general motoring. Packed with advice, tips and emergency procedures this book could mean the difference between standing at the side of the road in the rain or actually getting to that meeting on time.

The advice for driving abroad is minimal but Haynes publish a sister glovebox book entitled Driving Abroad which is also reviewed on this site.

Main Sections
  • Making the most of your car
  • Safety
  • Troubleshooting
  • In an emergency
  • Tools
  • Simple checks and servicing
  • The bodywork and the interior
  • Preparing for the MoT test
  • Where do I go for help?
  • Buying and selling a car
  • Conversion factors
  • Accident report form
  • Glossary
  • Distance chart
  • Radio frequencies
Page animation
The section, Making the most of your car, covers such subjects as; Things you should always carry, car security, fuel, how to save money, tuning up, accessories, carrying children, carrying different loads, towing, winter preparation, getting ready for a holiday and travelling abroad.

Safety explains seat belt use, working on the car, hazards and safety when driving.

Troubleshooting deals with most circumstances likely to arise such as mechanical, electrical and fuel faults. There are flow-charts and troubleshooting tables that will give the reason and remedy to most breakdown failures.

In an emergency explains a modern cars warning lights in detail, advice and what to do in the event of a breakdown both on a country road and motorway and an idiot's guide to changing a wheel. The section on 'what to do if you fill up with the wrong type of fuel' is very enlightening and I am sure will be of use to more drivers than you could imagine. Emergencies involving theft, broken windscreens, towing and jump leads are all explained in detail.

Tools is a simple list of basic maintenance tools.

Simple checks and servicing takes you through the main points of vehicle maintenance. Experienced and novice drivers will find much useful information and techniques here, all aimed at preventing breakdowns and ensuring economy and longevity of the vehicle.

The bodywork and the interior gives instructions on the correct methods for that Sunday ritual of car cleaning. It includes tips on wheel trims and touch-up paint.

Preparing for the MoT test gives advice on the major items to be checked before taking your car for its MoT.

Where do I go for help? explains the pros and cons of different types of garages, warranties, buying parts and what to expect on your bill.

Buying and selling a car either new or secondhand can have its pitfalls, this section explains how to do it properly and save yourself an awful lot of grief.

Copyright © 1998 - 2005 SelfDriveCamping.co.uk
All Rights Reserved.

Copyright and Disclaimer