Best Auto Mechanic Books: Learn More About the Industry

Our pick for the best overall auto mechanic book is the good old standby How Cars Work by well-respected expert Tom Newton. This book is chock full of simple and straightforward illustrations that aid in gaining basic to advanced knowledge of car systems and how they work.

It offers in-depth descriptions and explanations of the 250 most important car parts and how they function. It even includes mini tests at the end of each chapter so you can see just how much you’re absorbing along the way. Or, you could also use this book as a tutoring textbook for new auto enthusiasts.

The book is written in concise and easy-to-understand vocabulary with basic terms that will help you gain mechanical knowledge, learn to diagnose car problems, and be able to speak about them intelligently. That said, this book is a little dated, but most of the information is still relevant. More advanced mechanics may find this book too remedial or basic.

From the ever popular “For Dummies” repertoire comes Auto Repair For Dummies written by acclaimed auto repair guru Deanna Sclar. In true “For Dummies” fashion, this book covers a wide range of basic topics while providing fresh and relevant content that’s not only educational but entertaining as well.

Use this book to learn how to perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on your vehicle. You’ll also learn how to deal with roadside emergencies, troubleshoot issues, and extend the life of your car. This book will help you make sense of certain automotive systems that can seem confusing or daunting in their functions.

The book includes an under-the-hood checklist, tool advice, helpful illustrations, and much more. There’s even a guide to help you select, check, and care for your tires. It’s a great nuts and bolts resource for beginners. While not a great resource for in-depth issues or electrical components, this book will help to ensure you’re knowledgeable enough not to get hoodwinked by dishonest repair people

If you want a serious text that will provide an in-depth and detailed explanation of automotive principles and function, look no further than James D. Halderman’s Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service. This is about as legit as you can get when it comes to learning the ins and outs of everything automotive.

Used as an in-class textbook for many automotive courses in high schools and trade schools, this text is designed to teach you how to diagnose, repair and service vehicles with confidence. It not only provides a basic understanding of automotive systems but also gives you a more in-depth understanding on the topic.

Since this book is used as a teaching text, it is big and bulky. It’s also quite pricey compared to many other auto mechanic books on the market. With so much information contained in it, you may also find that it’s hard to find exactly what you’re looking for quickly.

Automotive Wiring and Electrical Systems by Tony Candela will help you make sense of the often confusing and daunting topic of automotive and electrical wiring. It’s a detailed, non-brand-specific reference book that will take you through car wiring from the ground up. It even covers which tools and equipment you’ll need for doing a reliable wiring job.

You’ll also learn how to design, assemble, and troubleshoot automotive electrical systems. If you’re already familiar with car wiring, this book will also help you advance your skills by addressing and explaining some more complicated situations. Learn everything from the basics of electrical principles, amperage, resistance, and voltage to adding new circuits or installing aftermarket electronics.

This book is a little dated and covers relevant wiring concepts if you’re looking to restore an older car. However, it lacks vital information on modern vehicle electronics systems. Some of the diagrams can also be confusing to readers who are very new to wiring and electrical concepts.

It’s hard to compete with in-depth teaching texts when it comes to learning all you need or want to know about automotive repair and maintenance. That’s why we love Automotive Engines: Diagnosis, Repair, Rebuilding by Tom Gilles. Yes, it’s a little on the dry side, but you get a plethora of up-to-date and relevant information.

Tom Gilles has been a college-level automotive professor for decades and has authored several textbooks. This book is the product of six previous editions, giving you much-need updates. Learn about the theory of operation along with all you need to know about rebuilding an engine.

This book focuses on universal repair techniques that are relevant for a variety of car and truck makes and models. It emphasizes technical expertise, but also critical thinking skills to teach you how to diagnose a range of problems. That said, this book is heavy, and we don’t just mean weight-wise. Parts of it can be confusing. It’s also very pricey, like most texts, but if you just need it for a short time, you have the option of renting it online, which is pretty cool.