CategoryKnow How

Sharing NAPA Know How for all is what we do here at the NAPA Know How Blog. The Know How category is the place to find the information you need to be educated about your vehicle. Whether you are a beginner DIYer, a seasoned mechanic, or a patron of your local NAPA AutoCare there is always something new to learn.

We’ll tell you how your car works, why maintenance matters, what tools you need, and how to stay safe. We’ve got tips for servicing brakes, how your oil filter works, checking your cooling system, choosing the right brake fluid, even dealing with water damage after a flood. Our guides will help equip you to make the right decisions for your situation, how to prepare for your next repair, and how to pick the right tools for the job. Since NAPA is more than just auto parts, you can also learn about your lawn equipment, boat, RV, ATV, UTV, or snowmobile.

A man pumps diesel fuel into his vehicle.

Posted October 8, 2022 Know How

Can You Leave Your Car on While Pumping Gas?

Can you leave your car on while pumping gas? The answer is not as clear as you might think, and there are other issues to address at service stations too.

Posted October 7, 2022 Know How

How to Become an Automotive Technician

What is an Automotive Technician? An automotive technician is a multifaceted repair mechanic who works on cars, trucks, SUVs and fleet vehicles. This job has upward mobility in a hands-on … Continue Reading How to Become an Automotive Technician

Posted October 3, 2022 Know How

EV Charging Plug Types: Electric Vehicle Charging Decoded

Most drivers don’t realize that electric vehicle charging plugs are not always the same. When you think of plugging something in people usually picture a common 110v home outlet which … Continue Reading EV Charging Plug Types: Electric Vehicle Charging Decoded

Posted September 29, 2022 Know How

Car Buying In A Tough Market

2022 has been tough for car buying, both in the new and used markets. Pent up demand from pandemic lockdowns clashed head-on with a shortage in new vehicles being built. … Continue Reading Car Buying In A Tough Market

Posted September 28, 2022 Know How

Putting Together Your Own Custom Vehicle Emergency Kit

Roadside emergencies are always a surprise, but a little planning and preparation can make it easier to handle. Every driver can benefit from a vehicle emergency kit. While a vehicle … Continue Reading Putting Together Your Own Custom Vehicle Emergency Kit

Posted September 26, 2022 Know How

How to Use a Circuit Tester

Automotive electrical problems are never fun to diagnose. But getting down to the fundamentals can be a good place to start. Finding out if a circuit is even receiving power … Continue Reading How to Use a Circuit Tester

Posted September 23, 2022 Know How

How to Install Seat Covers

How to Install Seat Covers Are you spending more time and money scrubbing the dirt off your original vehicle upholstery than it’s worth? Maybe your kids or grandkids are mucking … Continue Reading How to Install Seat Covers

Posted September 16, 2022 Know How

What Is An EV Credit And How To Take Advantage Of It?

A decade ago electric vehicles were a rarity on the road. Back then your choice was pretty much deciding what color Nissan LEAF you wanted. Fast forward to today and … Continue Reading What Is An EV Credit And How To Take Advantage Of It?

Posted September 9, 2022 Know How

Modern Headlight Technology: Looking At 2022 And Beyond

It is hard to believe that automobile headlights started out as little more than lanterns hung from the front of early motor cars. Some headlights even had to be lit … Continue Reading Modern Headlight Technology: Looking At 2022 And Beyond

An engine block and pistons minus the cylinder head

Posted August 25, 2022 Know How

How To Fix A Blown Head Gasket

The words “blown head gasket” strike fear into the heart of almost any vehicle owner. While not as horrifying as “blown engine”, a blown head gasket typically means a very … Continue Reading How To Fix A Blown Head Gasket