acuraengine2First of all, I don’t consider myself mechanically inclined. I’ve helped to build and tear down some theater sets. I’ve done some minor home repairs. I know how to check the oil in my car, change the wiper blades, and so on – basic stuff. In August, we purchased a 1999 Acura TL. Nice car; best car we looked at within our modest price range. We knew the car had some “issues” when we purchased it – but I don’t think we were quite prepared for the headlong plunge we’ve taken into this auto shop class.

Here’s the syllabus:

What’s the TCS light and why is it coming on? What’s up with the funky split in the rear view mirror? Why do I have to use special power steering fluid?

All tests are open book and big thank you’s to the helpful guys at AutoZone, the easy-to-understand Acura owner’s manual, and Google and YouTube. I’ve learned more in the last month about power steering hoses, o-rings and fluid than I care to relate here. Not to mention EGR valves or gas additives.

Some problems are the sort where you just need a professional – like replacing a high-pressure hose on a power steering system. Or replacing a timing belt. Other things – well, you can save yourself some cash by learning how to fix it yourself.

That funky rear view mirror? A squiggly line across the middle separates a dark bottom half from a clear top half. The young man who sold us the car actually told me it was a “feature” I’d have to get used to. No, dude, the mirror’s broken. However, I’ve done my homework and watched the 15-minute video on how to replace the mirror – and briefed the hubby. Now all we have to do is order the part online and complete our assignment.

So far I think we’re passing this course. I expect we’ll complete most of it by around December. And then move on to some extra credit projects – like replacing that missing rear emblem.