Provides diagnostic information, as well as maintenance & repair instructions for cars and trucks. Features many makes and models of automobiles from 1974 to present. This resource is available remotely, allowing you to access the contents from anywhere with an internet connection.
Consumer & Automotive
Online Resources
Auto Repair Source
Bay Area Consumers’ Checkbook (*in-library use only, not available remotely)
Offers evaluation and ratings for local goods and service providers. Topics include automotive services, health care providers, home services, leisure & travel, personal finance, pet care services, and local stores. All information is compiled by the non-profit consumer organization, the Center for the Study of Services.
* While the majority of our online resources are accessible remotely, this resource is only accessible from inside the library. When visiting the library you can access this resource from a personal laptop computer that is connected to our WiFi network, or you can access this resource from one of our library computers, including our laptops available from the laptop kiosk.
Available for in-library use only
ChiltonLibrary: Auto Repair New! 
ChiltonLibrary provides access to repair, maintenance and service information on the most popular cars, trucks, vans and SUVs. It provides step-by-step repair procedures, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes, photos, illustrations, diagrams, and multimedia (videos and animations). The Chilton App is not available at this time for library usage.
Consumer Magazines on Flipster Digital Newsstand
Access the latest issue as well as back issues of some popular consumer magazines:
- Consumer Reports (2014 - Present)
- Consumer Reports On Health (2015 - Present)
- Consumer Reports Buying Guide (2015 - Present)
- AARP: The Magazine (2016 - Present)
Consumer Reports (1991 – Present)
Read reviews and comparisons of consumer products and services including appliances, cars & trucks, electronics, etc. It provides product recalls and safety and reliability of individual brands.
Tips for Searching:
- Click the link "Search within this publication."
- If using the "Basic Search" option, use Boolean Operators like AND, OR, NOT followed by your search term. For example: JN "Consumer Reports" AND Washing Machines.
- Click the link "Search within this publication."
- Click on Advanced Search.
- The first search box displays: JN "Consumer Reports". Add your search term, such as the term "Washing Machines" into the second search box.
New York Times: Wirecutter eMagazines & News New!
Access Now
The New York Times Wirecutter offers independent reviews and buying advice for thousands of consumer products including computers, electronics and tech devices, kitchenware, home and garden products, health and fitness tools, and more. Research recommendations before purchase to make informed decisions. Redeem the code for 24-hour access to this resource. You’ll first need to log in to your New York Times account or register for one. Then navigate to Wirecutter in the New York Times website menu. The New York Times recommends using the newest version of the Chrome browser for the best loading and browsing experience. More information on this topic can be found in the New York Times Help Center., opens a new window
Please Note: The New York Times (NYT) requires users to be 13 or older. The NYT also asks users age 13-17 to obtain parental or legal guardian consent to the NYT Terms of Service and NYT Privacy Policy. By following the link below to access the NYT, you certify that you are 13 or older, and that if you are 13-17 years old, that you have obtained the consent of your parent or legal guardian to the NYT terms of service and privacy policy. When accessing the New York Times link, you will be leaving the Santa Clara County Library District website and directed to the New York Times site. This service is provided at no charge to Santa Clara County Library District patrons. Please be aware that policies that apply to the Library and its website may not be the same as the terms of use for other websites. By proceeding you agree to accept and assume all risks and responsibilities for the losses and damages that may arise from your use of the New York Times website and release the Santa Clara County Library District from all liability.
About Privacy & TermsPrivacy PolicyTerms & Conditions
The New York Times Wirecutter offers independent reviews and buying advice for thousands of consumer products including computers, electronics and tech devices, kitchenware, home and garden products, health and fitness tools, and more. Research recommendations before purchase to make informed decisions. Redeem the code for 24-hour access to this resource. You’ll first need to log in to your New York Times account or register for one. Then navigate to Wirecutter in the New York Times website menu. The New York Times recommends using the newest version of the Chrome browser for the best loading and browsing experience. More information on this topic can be found in the New York Times Help Center., opens a new window
Please Note: The New York Times (NYT) requires users to be 13 or older. The NYT also asks users age 13-17 to obtain parental or legal guardian consent to the NYT Terms of Service and NYT Privacy Policy. By following the link below to access the NYT, you certify that you are 13 or older, and that if you are 13-17 years old, that you have obtained the consent of your parent or legal guardian to the NYT terms of service and privacy policy. When accessing the New York Times link, you will be leaving the Santa Clara County Library District website and directed to the New York Times site. This service is provided at no charge to Santa Clara County Library District patrons. Please be aware that policies that apply to the Library and its website may not be the same as the terms of use for other websites. By proceeding you agree to accept and assume all risks and responsibilities for the losses and damages that may arise from your use of the New York Times website and release the Santa Clara County Library District from all liability.
About Privacy & TermsPrivacy PolicyTerms & Conditions
Reference Solutions (Formerly referenceUSA): Phone Lookup and Directory Information
Provides information about businesses and people. Search by name, location, type of business and more. Conduct business and consumer research, create marketing plans, research competitive analysis, and locate executives.
Small Engine Repair Source
Provides diagnostic information, as well as maintenance and repair instructions for a wide variety of small engines: Motorcycles, ATVs, Boats, Snowmobiles, Tractors, Lawn Mowers, Generators, and more! This resource is available remotely, allowing you to access the contents from anywhere with an internet connection.