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.