Is Chiltons auto repair manual a reliable guide?

Question

I bought a 1996 toyota camry and i like tinkering around maintaining the car myself. I already changed the spark polugs, wires, distributor cap and rotor. I may need new brakes soon that I want to do myself. I also need a maintenance guide so I know exactly when my car needs oil changes, fluids checks, belts changed, hoses, etc.

I want to do it myself. So is the manual reliable? Or haynes?

Answer 1

I agree with daihatsu man... if you really want to know what you're doing, get both. You can find them on e-Bay, Amazon.com, etc. used, so it's worth it.

It may depend on model, but I've found that Chiltons sometimes covers multiple ones, so the instructions may not be specific to the one you have. Also, Haynes sometimes says "Consult an authorized repair facility" or words to that effect. (paraphrasing there)

If you are mechanically inclined, both will probably benefit you.

I have BOTH for my 84 Chevy pickup, and 94 Volvo sedan.

Hope this helps you... mechanics earn their money, but it's big bucks! So have a beer with a friend and figure it out on your own!

Answer 2

Both are good, though I do prefer Chiltons. They both are good at explaining basic repairs, such as replacing brake pads and shoes.
Oil change intervals depend upon the type of driving you do, and the climate. For example, I am in Minnesota, and I drive appr. 3,000 highway miles a month. I'll change my oil AND filter about every 3,000 miles. If I did mostly town driving, I would change it every 2,000 miles or so.
Buy a good oil filter (fram is NOT a good filter!) - anything made by Wicks will do - and most any name brand motor oil will do. I run 5W30 oil in the winter months, and 10w30 in the summer on my cars.
The problem with Chiltons and other "after market" repair manuals is that they cover as many makes and models as possible. If you really like your Toyota, consider spending more money on a Toyota shop manual specifically for your year of Camry.
Belts and hoses need to be checked at least monthly. It is not hard to determine what is in good shape, and what is not, but it will take more time to explain what to look for than I have. Your Chiltons does a good job of telling the rookie how to do this at the front of the book - which you can look at, and photocopy, at your local library.

Answer 3

Chiltons is the standard used by most car repair shops because they have the most comprehensive directions on "how to" when it comes to repairing your car.

They have been around for the longest and they know what they are talking about. Now if you start messing around with the computer system and emmission control system, you had better know your stuff and have a reputible manual by your side to walk you through it.

Unless it's a manual direct from the manufacturer, Chiltons is the place to go.

Answer 4

I have taken up using factory shop manuals, and they make the Chiltons look sick. I use the Chiltons for a doorstop. I don't have a toyota, so I don't know how clear they are.

Answer 5

Chiltons has been around forever. Only thing better is a toyota manual!

Answer 6

Both manuals are very good -- Haynes is more for the novice. I have many of each brand on my shelves.

Answer 7

It's good to have both of them. If you look at two-three different approaches to solving the same problem it usually gives you a better idea of how to accomplish the task.

Answer 8

Both are good books. They do have different pictures at different anlges so if you are kinda nervous about the brakes buy them both. Your brakes are easy to do; watch how quick you do them!!!

Answer 9

chiltons is a good manual i prefer hanyes just my prefence

Answer 10

Either one will fill the bill. Good luck.