Auto repair database keeps cars road ready Published May 4, 2007 Courtesy of 1st SOSVS HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Experience the Hurlburt Field Library's free tool for do-it-yourself vehicle repair. The Auto Repair Reference Center is available online through the library's Web site and makes it easy for beginning or advanced mechanics to do-it-themselves. For many years, libraries have circulated auto repair books and manuals. The books are large, heavy and difficult to use without getting them dirty. And one had to get to the library to borrow them. The auto repair database fits the Commando lifestyle - it's available "any time, any place" with an Internet connection. The screens are easy to read and easy to print to take into the garage. The Auto Repair Reference Center is packed with useful information about thousands of vehicle models from 1945 to present. Drawings and step-by-step photographs illustrate routine repair and maintenance procedures. There are wiring diagrams, technical bulletins and recalls, maintenance schedules and vehicle specifications and the center is continually updated by the publisher to include more models and more features. Use the troubleshooting guide to figure out why the air conditioner isn't blowing or why the engine makes a funny noise and the care and repair tips section supplies a complete guide to vehicle ownership and maintenance. Its glossary of vehicle terms is especially helpful with many illustrations and photos. The "Auto IQ" uses video and audio clips to demonstrate where the components are located on a car and how they operate. If not a do-it-yourself person, then use the labor calculator to help estimate the cost of professional service. Get the hourly labor and diagnostic rates from a mechanic, enter the rates into the labor calculator and select the service. The database fills in the standard time required for the task to provide a quick estimate. Access the Auto Repair Reference Center at www.commandolibrary.com. Click on the library research link then choose EBSCOhost. The Web site will require a base library login if accessing from a home computer. A user ID may be obtained from the library. For more information, call 884-6266.