Feminine Fix-it Auto Handbook
Ward
1974
I’m actually kind of a fan of this book. Aside from the dated advice, it is actually a pretty good book. It’s written without any cutesy condescending language.The advice is competent and not overly technical. It would be a good car book regardless of gender. The rather girly title isn’t my favorite, but for 1974 it probably worked pretty well.
I really do think the landscape for women having to talk to mechanics and car sales people is different. Granted, I have a built in shield with a automotive engineer husband. Back in the day (the 1980s) when we were car shopping, I was ignored, except when talking about colors. Same with mechanics. I was sure I would be taken to the cleaners with up-selling and unnecessary repairs.
My husband can go chapter and verse on the complexity of engines evolving over the years. I also think the Haynes and Chilton probably are geared to a higher level of knowledge (or even confidence) about automobiles. Based on my husband being called time and time again to “consult” on an auto purchases and repairs for various members of my family, that fear of being taken for a ride (pun intended), is still real for women.
Mary
“The glove compartment is small enough, so avoid filling it with unnecessary items items like gloves.” HAH! that made me smile (:
I haven’t see a crank bumper jack, save at an antique show or a junkyard with old cars, in decades! Most modern bumbers are not capable of their use anyway!