Getting a Look Underneath the Vehicle

The tour began with one of our vehicles safely raised on a hoist. This gave everyone a rare opportunity to see what is actually underneath a car. We pointed out and explained several key components, including the exhaust system, suspension parts, steering components, and other important systems that help keep vehicles safe and running smoothly.

Learning About Shop Tools

Next, the girls got to see one of the most popular tools in any automotive shop: the impact gun. We demonstrated how it works, let them hear and feel the power of the tool, and even gave them a chance to try it on a wheel under supervision. It was definitely one of the highlights of the evening!

Tire Safety and Maintenance

Vehicle safety starts where the rubber meets the road. We showed the girls how to inspect tire tread using a simple quarter test. By measuring the top of the Queen's head on a quarter, they learned how to estimate approximately 5/32" of tread depth and better understand when tires may need attention.

We also demonstrated how to check tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge. Each participant received a gauge to take home, encouraging them to continue practicing this important skill with their families.

To complete the tire lesson, we demonstrated how to add air to a tire using the equipment we use in the shop. We also discussed portable air compressors that can be kept in a vehicle and used during roadside emergencies.

Under the Hood

With the hood open, the girls explored the different fluids that help keep a vehicle operating properly. We challenged them to guess the purpose of various reservoirs and explained the importance of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid, and power steering fluid.

One of the most popular activities was checking the engine oil dipstick and learning how technicians determine whether the oil level is correct.

We also demonstrated how to fill windshield washer fluid, and several participants eagerly volunteered to give it a try themselves.

Emergency Preparedness

The workshop concluded with a discussion on boosting a vehicle with a dead battery. We demonstrated the professional-grade booster pack used in our shop and explained how smaller portable booster packs can be kept in a vehicle for emergencies. The girls learned basic battery safety and gained an understanding of how these devices can help get a vehicle started when needed.

Swag Bags to Take Home

To help reinforce what they learned, each Girl Guide went home with a swag bag filled with useful items and a few fun surprises. The bags included a tire pressure gauge so they could practice checking tire pressures at home, a flashlight for emergency preparedness, snacks, and some fun girl-friendly goodies to enjoy.

We wanted every participant to leave not only with new automotive knowledge, but also with practical tools that could help them stay safe and confident around vehicles in the future!

Building Confidence Through Knowledge

The evening was filled with great questions, enthusiastic participation, and lots of hands-on learning. We were impressed by the curiosity and engagement shown by every member of the Girl Guides group.

A big thank you to the Girl Guides for visiting us and to our hosts, Rui, Manon, and Pema, for sharing their knowledge and passion for automotive education! It was wonderful to see so much enthusiasm for learning, and we hope everyone left feeling a little more confident around vehicles and inspired to continue building their automotive knowledge.

At MNM, we're always excited to support our community and help make automotive knowledge accessible to everyone. We look forward to hosting more educational events that empower young people with practical skills they can use for years to come.