I think every kid {girls & boys} should take a shop or basic mechanic class.
What used to be passed down from father to sons {and maybe some daughters} just doesn't happen anymore.

Luckily my dad let me hang out in the shop with my brothers when he tinkered on things.
Plus I was a tomboy anyway LOL.

Some basic car Tips -
listen to the sounds your car is making- smooth , rough running, clanks, clunks or whines, squeals, hiss, rubbing sounds - you need to be able describe it as best you can to your mechanic - unless it makes that sound all the time...

area of the car do any odd sounds come from

Having a mechanic or dealership that is trustworthy is a good thing, maybe ask around and have a backup one also for emergencies.

It is possible to find really nice & well cared for 1 owner cars in the lower prices.
Just takes time and reading a lot of ads and comparing when you go look at them in person.

there are many sites with info on cars and repairs, so learn about your can or the one you are looking at before you get in a bind.
http://usedcars.about.com/
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q...=Google+Search