The problem with self-published books is not that they aren't any good, but that they are sometimes hard-pressed to find their way into the market. Not so withCar$mart, an auto-repair guide written and published by a repair shop owner from Alabama. This book has worked its way into the mainstream, and rightly so. It is a good primer on the mechanical operation of an automobile with a valuable section on how to find and maintain a relationship with a competent and honest mechanic.
The more technical section of the book, in which many of the major systems in today's autos are examined, is illustrated with line drawings and schematics that are clear and well presented, often with a glossary of terms at the end of the chapter. If you want to get grease under your fingernails there is almost no how-to information. The book does, however, contain a lot of how-it-works information, in keeping with the author's belief that the more you know when you walk through the repair shop door, the better off you are.
Coleman seems convinced that much of the repair industry is out to take a little more than they have coming for parts and repairs, and some of the material seems a bit strident in tone. He dedicates the first quarter of the book to educating readers about how to avoid being overcharged, sold services or parts they don't need, or getting ripped off by an unfamiliar garage while they are traveling. But many of his points are well taken, with a lot of money-saving ideas and warnings about possible overcharges or scams peppered throughout the book.
The only major system not covered in Car$mart is the electrical system. I perceive this as a flaw for the simple reason that batteries, starters, alternators and the wiring system of a car are no less susceptible to failure than other components, and therefore no less susceptible to incompetent or dishonest repair. In defense of the book, though, material that is included is thorough and well organized.
All in all, Car$mart is a good book, and worth the cover price. The design makes it easy to find what you're looking for, and production quality is good. It's a good reference and will be for some time. It's not a book to keep in the garage for hands-on tasks, but keep it handy. It could save you money.
-- Sandy Compton
