Is there an introductory course out there for women to learn the basics of car maintainance and changing. Basic things like changing a tire, starting a battery, changing a battery, changing oil etc. I can't find any courses out there and I can't imagine someone not putting something like this together. I already checked the continuing education books and nothing.

Great question. Someone from CBC actually contacted me for blowing the whistle on the mr. Lube racket--a prime reason we need that! Mind you, most men nowadays don't know much about cars either if you start asking around. There should be something for the kids who went to university and never learned how to use their hands (me). All one needs to do is look at the age demographic of those who can build/fix
Cars nowadays and it's looking pretty bleak out there. Most people who know  a lot about cars (past the basics) are in the baby boomer age bracket! It's a sad state of affairs all around.

I've learn so much from YouTube. Including changing and putting air in my tires. :-)

I believe the Vancouver School Board offers basic car maintenance courses. I had a couple friends take it this past summer and they found it really useful.

Isabelle this is a great question, first check in you glove box if you car has a owner manual that is a SUPER Place to Start, Most Manufactures explain key maintenance for you brand of vehicles. If you do not have manual a great item to get is Hayes Manual for you Model they have great explanations of all major issues and repairs you will encounter for your vehicle. I also agree with Jason check Ott check out utube for the item your concerned (but remember the source) in closing Car Repair cost money a great charges for there services just a like a decent chef charges for making a great cream brulee and your LIFE depends of both of them.

There was a car maintenance for women course at VSB in January but looks like it was cancelled. Maybe check with them if they're planning another one soon...

i agree with brian.

I've taken the car maintenance course through VSB. Not the women's only one though; it was me and a bunch of dudes ages 18-late 30s. Wasn't a problem because we were all about the same knowledge level. I found it pretty helpful. The instructor taught us how to change a tire, jump the battery using another car, perform a quick engine check, change the oil and bleed the brake lines. Maybe more but it's been a couple years so I can't remember it all. Trick is to get lots of practice so you don't forget what you've learned. Lucky me I have a penchant for crappy cars w/ standard transmission : )