Republished with permission from the awesome team at WomenAutoKnow.com.
Afraid to open your hood because you might break a nail? Lots of women know the feeling, but don’t be afraid. Working on cars is an empowering experience. Click ahead to discover five ways working on cars changed my life (#4 will tickle anyone with a husband or boyfriend).
1. I’m not anxious about my auto.
A lot of women perceive their vehicle as a stress source. If it doesn’t work 100% of the time, they get upset. If a check engine light comes on, they ignore the problem until it grows into an even bigger (more expensive) one.
Taking ownership of your vehicle’s condition empowers you. Instead of getting upset when your engine craps out, you will feel confident enough to pop open your hood and find out what’s going on. To speed up your learning process, spend a slow day reading through your OMV (owner’s manual for your vehicle).
2. I don’t lose my cool in emergencies.
I’ve seen enough wrecked cars to know how dangerous distracted driving can be. Being aware of your surroundings gives you an opportunity to identify potential threats before it’s too late. I’ve also learned it’s best to stay calm no matter what happens.
Accident prevention comes down to how you react. If you hit a patch of ice, don’t slam your brakes in a panic. Simply take your foot off the gas, watch out for obstacles, and gently accelerate as soon as you regain traction. Don’t worry. You’ve got this!
3. I don’t get ripped off by mechanics. 
You might be thinking: “Of course you don’t get ripped off by mechanics… you are a mechanic!” That’s true, but it’s still good to get a second opinion. When I do, I never ask for a tune-up.
Instead, I provide details about any sights, smells, or sensations I noticed. Next, I offer a theory about what might be causing the problem, and ask the mechanic to look into the issue. Sometimes they confirm my suspicion. Other times they have a better idea. Either way, I don’t get taken advantage of, because I specify my exact needs.
4. I don’t need a man to “save” me.
It’s awesome to be able to change my tire without asking a man for help. Sometimes I even get to help a man get his car back on the road. Talk about role reversal!
If you don’t think being auto aware is worth the trouble, imagine the stunned look on your boyfriend’s face when you change his flat tire. Wouldn’t that be hilarious? Yep.
5. I don’t take my car for granted anymore.
My car does a lot for me. It takes me to work. It takes my kids to school. It even gives my family the opportunity to go on fun vacations that help us grow closer together.
Since your car takes care of you in so many ways, it’s only fair to return the favor. I bet working on cars will help you become a stronger woman, too. It doesn’t hurt to try! 
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Note: A new-and-improved edition of this blog appears in the first volume of Audra’s new Kindle book series, “End Auto Anxiety.” If you want to be educated and empowered, click the link in the previous sentence to visit the book page on Amazon.
About the Author: Audra Fordin is the fourth generation owner of Great Bear Auto Repair and Auto Body Shop in Lansing, NY and CEO/Founder of Women Auto Know. Visit www.WomenAutoKnow.com to find an auto shop that’s willing to earn your trust and read Audra’s auto safety blog (updated every Tuesday morning).