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This article showcases our top picks for the Best
Books To Learn About Cars. We reached out to industry leaders and experts who have contributed the suggestions within this article (they have been credited for their contributions below).
We are keen to hear your feedback on all of our content and our comment section is a moderated space to express your thoughts and feelings related (or not) to this article
This list is in no particular order.
This product was recommended by Patrick McCann from WeTryTires
This book is one in a long line of the popular series of books “for dummies”. This isn’t a technical book, which is what makes it a great starting point for someone starting out and wanting to learn the basics about cars. It is easy to read, and teaches the fundamentals of how cars work.
This product was recommended by Patrick McCann from WeTryTires
“Automotive Technology” by James D. Halderman is the next level up from the beginner books, explaining in more detail all the areas of servicing a vehicle. It is the book that is used in school to teach and train new vehicle mechanics and a must read for anyone wanting to dive deeper into learning about cars and their maintenance.
This product was recommended by Patrick McCann from WeTryTires
For serious auto mechanics wanting to know every thick there is about diagnosing autos, this is the only book to have. This book focuses on in-depth troubleshooting guides to successfully identify the root cause of all vehicle issues. It covers every possible vehicle system and is the most comprehensive guide available to learn about cars.
This product was recommended by John Taylor from Garage Detective
Auto Mechanics Fundamentals is a perfect book for anyone who wants to learn more about the inner workings of vehicle mechanics. It’s written in a way easy to understand and it is full of descriptive diagrams.
This product was recommended by John Taylor from Garage Detective
Auto Fundamentals book leads readers through the design, construction, and operation of all major automotive systems. It is recommended for those who are absolute beginners who wants to build up foundation in the basics of automotive technology. It is very easy to understand and applicable to all vehicles. Each car system is explained in detail, starting with its basic function and progressing to the construction and operation of its individual components.
This product was recommended by Ruhul Amin from SprayerMag
This book is for advanced auto mechanics only. Seriously, this is really next-level stuff, but I decided to include it here because I know some of you will want to read it. But you have to be warned. It is a book written by engineers. Yes, engineers. The same engineers, we car mechanics love so much. It includes mathematical models, providing a qualitative explanation of each topic that does not require mathematical knowledge. Completely updated, this new edition moves away from the introduction to mechanical-level electronics to cover topics such as automotive camera systems and typical electronic camera systems, hybrid control, AUTOSAR (AUTomotive Open System ARchitecture), and vehicle networks.
This product was recommended by Alina Clark from CocoDoc
Exact book needed for my class for about a hundred dollars less than the school bookstore was selling it for. I expected this book to help me with my auto repair job, but it exceeded my expectations! The textbook is so detailed and scientific that all my questions were answered. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in auto repair be it professional or amateur.
This product was recommended by Olivia Tan from CocoFax
This one is also oriented towards beginner auto mechanics. It covers all the major systems from brakes and suspension systems, tires, engine, steering to air conditioning and fuel system. I really like the fact that it features big, fully colored pictures, unlike most shop manuals which are often filled with poor quality black and grey pictures. Simple layout, clear directions, this is a very good book to get the basics before getting your hands dirty.
This product was recommended by Ginny Scales Medeiros from GinnyScalesMedeiros
For anyone thinking about buying a new or used electric car, you will find the answers to your questions, in this easy to understand book. (79 Reasons to Drive an electric car ) Scott duPont has traveled the country, with his book and award winning documentary, educating students from 5 to 100, surprised by the practicality & history of electric cars.
This product was recommended by Steven Walker from Spylix
The Auto Upkeep Workbook includes online and hands-on activities that supplement the text. Auto Upkeep is an introductory automotive book that teaches the basics of owning and maintaining a car. Auto Upkeep is a do-it-yourself automotive guide for the driver in you. Auto Upkeep keeps you and your vehicle safe by providing detailed instructions with pictures and drawings.
This product was recommended by Steven Walker from Spylix
This book is a gem written by an experienced automotive teacher. It covers all aspects of auto repair. It’s one of the best automotive engineering books to help you build a successful career in auto repair. It includes everything from inspection to maintaining and repairing a damaged automobile. In a nutshell, it is a comprehensive guide to becoming an automotive mechanic.
This product was recommended by Marc Bromhall from Beginner Surf Gear
This Amazon best-seller is by far the most comprehensive book when it comes to learning about cars. Tom Newton writes the book in basic vocabulary and mechanical knowledge to help a complete novice get their head around the inner workings of a car.
This product was recommended by Ryan Yount from LuckLuckGo
The book A Brief History of Motion by Tom Standage is an eye-opening journey through the history of how cars came to be. From 3500 years ago with the wheel to the present day age of horsepower and engineering marvels such as electric cars. Tom highlights how many external factors such as geography and time experiences played a significant role in humanity sharpening technology and creating more robust, more effective, and efficient modes of transportation. This book will guide readers through the past to understand how to shape the future they want and ace challenges related to the automobile industry.
This product was recommended by Ryan Yount from LuckLuckGo
This is the ultimate book for automobile enthusiasts as it’s packed with fantastic personal stories and stunning photographs of whole cars taken with exquisite detail. Written by Discovery actor Ed Burns the book is packed with high-profile celebrities and their favorite car models. Using personal stories of other car lovers such as Shaquille O’Neal or Jay Leno and images of their cars, the author brings joy to every reader who loves learning about cars. In addition, the author highlights the personal connection between a gentleman and his ride, something that resonates with every car lover.
This product was recommended by Daniela Sawyer from FindPeopleFast
Electronics Troubleshooting and Repair: A Complete Revision Second Edition of Diagnose and Repair Everything Electronic. A lifelong electronics specialist provides step-by-step instructions. Stereos, MP3 players, digital cameras, flat-panel TVs, laptops, headsets, and mobile gadgets are all covered.
This product was recommended by Ryan Garrison from Sound Home Buyer
Auto repair for dummies is the best book for beginners who want to learn about cars. The author has beautifully provided the basic to pro-level knowledge of all types of cars in it. It contains each and every single method to guide about things like changing engine oil, coolant, checking radiator etc. It also has various methods to check the sensors of new cars, engine complete details, all types of gearboxes information and tires. It also contains interesting techniques to extend the car’s life.