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.