Want to learn about mechanics

[McPhersonator]

I really want to be able to look after my new 206 cc myself, without having to call dad or go to a garage and pay big prices for small jobs, but I've never in my life worked on a car. My bike, sure. Computer, no problem. Car? Err, where does the oil go? (I exaggerate - I do know how to check the oil! But I really am a complete beginner.) So what is the best way to learn? I've found a 6 month online course on basic car maintenance that's going for a special price, or would simply buying the Haynes manual be a good enough start?

[IanL]

The Haynes would be a good choice to introduce you to the basics, and covers quite a bit of advanced stuff, should you ever need it.

If you have a real problem at some point, it would be useful to have Peugeot Planet 2000 running on a 32-bit Windows system. Then you can quote the fault codes to the forum and get some relevant advice.

As you are computer-savvy, you can also get the Peugeot Service Box Documentation (parts and repair procedures) and SEDRE (wiring diagrams and location drawings). The best way is here.

For tools, you will need a set of metric sockets and a set of Torx screwdriver bits (Xmas is coming )

[gazza82]

I'd try the course too. I did some evening courses in my teens and although I knew a far bit, helped on some more obscure items. Although in those days cars were much simpler. Most I picked up through doing it!

[McPhersonator]

I think I will try the course. I feel that being online, it will lack a very valuable practical component, but what is there to lose? For £19, a primer on theory still sounds good to me.
As for the Haynes manual, is there a specific 206cc one, or does the 206 one cover all models?

[IanL]

You want Haynes No 4613 - 2002 to 2006 Peugeot 206. It has a blue 5-door on the cover.

Unfortunately, it does not include the 1.6 twin cam engine (TU5 JP4) which most CC's have - I believe that is in the 207 book.

EDIT: Also in the 307 book.

[McPhersonator]

Excellent, that's the one I've found. Thanks for your help!

[Capncol]

A college course is probably the best way as you "get hands on" experiance without risking your own car. some places offer a 6 week evening course at our local place and this will provide good grounding for all the basics. You have also got an instructor to give you guidance, including what tools to buy. No substitute for hands on!

[iooiuk]

I think I will try the course. I feel that being online, it will lack a very valuable practical component, but what is there to lose? For £19, a primer on theory still sounds good to me.
As for the Haynes manual, is there a specific 206cc one, or does the 206 one cover all models?

Most stuff you can search u-tube and find someone has done a video covering it.

The other option is to ask around at work, or friends to see if anyone does their own and see if you can watch/help them.

One thing you mentioned is computers You need a good grounding, as many things require Peugeot Planet to resolve.
Weird fixing a car using a computer

[Capncol]

One thing you mentioned is computers You need a good grounding, as many things require Peugeot Planet to resolve.
Weird fixing a car using a computer

That's all very well but if he doesn't know a MAF sensor from a coil pack, he won't understand what the PP is telling him.

[Artermis]

I'd recommend a college course. A local college to me does a lot of vocational courses, including mechanics - designed to teach school leavers. They are often running evening courses designed at beginner familiarization which covers a very basic level of spanner wielding.

If you're starting out fresh you are likely to need some tools. I've always been mechanically inclined - being at uni I couldn't afford the £100+VAT that the local Alfa garage wanted, so I learned quickly! I never really had much in the way of tools and had to make do with borrowing and cheapy basics.

When I left uni i got taken on by a temp agency 2 weeks later - result! - and with my first weeks pay cheque I ordered a big ass tool chest kit. You can pick them up for circa 275 upwards, a bit like this:

see ebay item number 122211102709

I'm about to turn 30, so I've had that tool kit coming up for 10 years now and added to it over the years. It's a great starter setup. The only thing I can think the set doesn't include which you might welcome is a brake caliper wind back tool (for replacing rear brake pads) and an electrical tester.

Of course if you're stuck I dont mind trying to talk you through basic stuff over the internet!