How To: Find a manual for a used car

Need to know what kind of oil your car needs? How about your vehicle load capacity? What about the standard maintenance procedures for you specific make and model? All of this and more can be located inside your owner's manual. If you don't have an owner's manual for your used car, you may still be able to find one even if your car is an antique.

You Will Need:
*Dealership
*Internet Access

Step 1: Visit an auto dealer's parts department
Visit the parts department of an auto dealer that sells your car's make and model. Understand, though, that a paper copy of your original factory service manual from the dealership may be your most expensive option.

Step 2: Go to your automaker's web site
Go to your automaker's web site. Most will have free downloads of manuals for recent car makes and models.

A few automakers offer paper copies of factory service manuals for purchase online.

Step 3: Buy a manual at an online auction web site
Bid on and buy a more obscure manual at an online auction web site.

Step 4: Find manual online via a third-party seller
Find a manual at the web sites of reputable third-party sellers such as Helm, Haynes, and Chilton.

If you're a first-time online auction buyer, read the auction site's buyer tutorial before making your purchase.

Step 5: Buy online at auto specialty bookstore
Buy rare manuals at online bookstores specializing in automotive interests, like TheMotorBookstore.com.

FACT: In 2008, the average price of a used vehicle was $7,986.