PlainAuto

PlainAuto explains your car — and the shop — in plain language. Whether you're a driver who wants to understand what that warning light means, or a technician who needs a quick torque spec, PlainAuto has you covered. CAR OWNER MODE • Warning Lights — what every dashboard light means, color-coded by urgency • Emergency Guide — flat tire, dead battery, overheating, fluid leaks, and more • DIY Repair Guides — step-by-step with tool lists and difficulty ratings • Maintenance Schedule — know exactly what's due and when • Cost Estimator — typical repair costs so you're never caught off guard • Mechanic Visit Prep — questions to ask, upsells to decline, your rights • Service History Log — track all maintenance, repairs, and costs over time • Seasonal Prep — winterizing, summer prep, pre-road-trip checklists • Fluids Guide — engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission, and more • Buying & Selling Guide — pre-purchase inspection, trade-in, private sale tips MECHANIC / TECH MODE • OBD-II Code Library — 500+ codes with plain-language causes and fixes • Torque Spec Database — lug nuts, head bolts, drain plugs, suspension, and more • Repair Procedures — step-by-step with special tools and time estimates • Diagnostic Decision Trees — symptom-based troubleshooting sequences • Wiring Color Codes — by manufacturer (GM, Ford, Toyota, Honda, Chrysler) • Customer Explainer Cards — shareable cards that explain repairs in plain terms • Labor Time Estimator — standard labor times for common repairs • Parts Cross-Reference — cross-references across major brands • Fluid Capacities — by make, model, and year WORKS OFFLINE. No account required. No data collected.