Intro to Basic Car Maintenance

Ever wondered what really goes on under the hood of your car? In this DIY workshop, we’ll cover the essential skills every driver should know to keep their vehicle safe, reliable, and on the road longer. Using my 2009 Honda Ridgeline as our test vehicle, you’ll learn how to check fluids, change a bad bulb, inspect wiper blades, inflate tires, and understand the maintenance schedule straight from the owner’s manual. Along the way, we’ll share practical tips for communicating with mechanics so you feel confident whether you’re doing the job yourself or taking your car to the shop. No prior experience required—just bring your curiosity and be ready to get a little grease on your hands! 

This class is perfect for new drivers who want to build confidence, car owners looking to save money on upkeep, and anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed at the auto shop counter. Whether you’re a student, commuter, or weekend road tripper, you’ll leave empowered to take better care of your vehicle.

This course covers the topics used in basic car maintenance, including when to tackle repairs yourself and when it's best to take your car to a mechanic.

As part of the course, you'll learn:

• Getting to know your owner's manual
• Fluid specs, checks and top-offs
• Checking tire pressue and inspecting for wear and damage
• How to safely jump-start your car
• Replacing filters, fuses, and lights
• Using an OBD-II scanner and understanding maintenance codes
• Tips for dealing with repair shops

And more!

Jim Mullen has spent the last 50 years up to his elbows in cars—maintaining them, fixing them, modifying them, and occasionally breaking them in the name of learning. From weekend projects to everyday repairs, he’s picked up plenty of tricks (and stories) along the way. Jim’s all about sharing that hard-earned know-how so you can feel more confident taking care of your own car without the mystery or stress.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Clear Creek Makerspace