Vehicle Systems and Maintenance
Why are springs designed?
Springs are designed to soften the impact of bumps in the roadway.
What are the main parts of a suspension system?
The main parts of a suspension system are the springs and shock absorbers.
When should the radiator cap be opened?
The radiator cap should only be opened when the radiator is cool.
What is the inches maximum of play on your steering wheel?
There should be no more than 2 inches of play in the steering wheel if your vehicle has power steering.
How deep should the tire tread be?
Tire tread depth should be at least 1/16 inch.
What is covered under a vehicle's warranty?
With newer vehicles, many but not all repairs are covered under the warranty.
Can or can you not know the specific guidelines for your vehicle?
You can know the specific guidelines for servicing your vehicle.
What should you do before the mechanic works on your vehicle?
You should ask a mechanic for an estimate before work begins on your vehicle.
Why should you check a vehicle's battery cables?
You should check a vehicle's battery cables to make sure that they are tight.
When should you check the engine oil level?
You should check the engine oil level when the engine is cool and not running.
When should you check your vehicle's headlights and turn signals?
You should check your vehicle's headlights and turn signals before you begin driving.
When should your vehicle's tires be rotated?
Your vehicle's tires should be rotated at least every 5000 to 6000 miles.
Ignition
activates main electrical systems for the vehicle, causes power to be drawn from the battery to a small electric starter motor
generator
another name for alternator
Differential
arrangement of gears that allows each drive wheel to turn at a different speed when a vehicle goes around a curve
Exhaust manifold
collects unburned gasses
engine control module
controls electric and other vehicle systems
thermostat
controls flow of the coolant
Spark plug
device in an engine's cylinder that ignites fuel-air mixture by means of an electric spark
ignition switch
key is used here to start a vehicle
Coolant
mixture of water and antifreeze
oil pump
moves oil to all moving engine parts
carbon monoxide
odorless, deadly gas
fuse
protects vehicle's electrical circuits from overloading
battery
provides energy to start the engine
water pump
pumps coolant through radiator and engine
muffler
quiets engine noise
catalytic converter
reduces harmful gas emissions
Crankshaft
shaft that is turned as the Pistons move up and down in the cylinders of the engine
alternator
supplies electricity needed to keep the engine running
Starter/Starter Motor
turns the flywheel of the engine, which turns the crankshaft
Clutch Pedal
vehicle with manual transmission, a device engages or disengages the engine and is connected to the drive shaft
Drive Wheels
wheel that moves a vehicle
tailpipe
where exhaust gases exit vehicle
When should a fan belt be replaced?
A fan belt should be replaced when cracked or frayed.
What are clues a vehicle's front end is out of alignment or tires need balancing?
-Steering wheel vibrates or is hard to turn -front end wobbles -car pulls to one side -vehicle bounces too much after going over a bump -tire treads wear unevenly
What does a vehicles brake warning light make you aware of?
A vehicles brake warning light will make you aware of some brake problems the vehicle may have.
When should you test your brakes?
Brakes should be tested as soon as you begin driving.
