Session 3 - Driver Responsibilities: Preparations before Operating a Vehicle

Preparations before Driving

• The first is the pre-trip inspection. A pre-trip inspection should be done the same way each time, so you will learn all the steps and be less likely to forget something. These inspections are conducted to ensure that a vehicle is safe to operate.

• The beginner driver will also learn how to identify, locate and operate vehicle control devices.

• They will also be aware of the vehicle's various warning symbols and safety devices, etc.

The external inspection involves-

physically checking the outside of the vehicle

External Inspection

• Check for any physical damage to the body of the vehicle, such as broken glass or headlights.

• Look under the vehicle for any fresh fluid leaks.

• Motor oil

• Coolant

• Grease

• Fuel leaks

• Transmission fluid

• Check to see if the vehicle is leaning to one side.

• Check all the tires for any possible damage, proper inflation and tread depth.

• Check area around the vehicle for hazards to vehicle movement - such as people (especially small children), small animals, other vehicles, objects, low hanging wires, or limbs, etc.

Antifreeze / Coolant

may be red, green, or yellow.

Brake Fluid

usually clear

Engine Oil

usually brown or black

Gasoline

amber and has a distinct odor

Transmission Fluid and Power Steering Fluid

usually red

Windshield Washer Fluid

usually pink or blue

The internal inspection

consists of checking major mechanical systems such as the brakes and steering, safety measures such as the mirrors and seat positioning and comfort measures such as the head rests.

Maintenance

is the process of maintaining or preserving something.

A repair

is usually partial and restores something to its original state.

Weekly Vehicle Maintenance Checks

These are simple checks you need to do on your vehicle every week to keep your vehicle performing efficiently and safely. These preventative checks also allow you to detect any problems early and get them fixed before they become a big problem.

Basic Vehicle Maintenance Checks

• Check "Cold Inflation Tire Pressure".

• Check the tire tread for wear and damage.

• Check for tire cupping.

• Check tires for any damages, such as cuts, stones, nails etc. embedded in the rubber.

• Check the headlights, tail lights, turn signals and hazard lights to make sure they are in proper working order.

• Check the windshield wipers to verify they are working properly. Check the windshield wiper blades to make sure the rubber is not worn. Check the washer fluid to confirm it is full and it sprays the fluid properly.

• Check the heater and air conditioner systems to determine they are in proper working order.

• Check the vehicles dashboard warning lights.

Suggested list of things that you should look for when inspecting your tires:

• Cuts and bulges

• Uneven tread wear.

• Check, using a gauge, for proper inflation. Properly inflated tires give more traction and save fuel.

• Check to ensure the tread depth is more than 1/16 of an inch. An easy way to check that your tire has enough tread remaining is to place a penny in the tread with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, it is time to replace your tires.

• Find your tread wear bars. If your tread wear bars are flush with the rest of your tire's tread, it is time to replace your tires. Click here for more information on tread wear bars.

Monthly Vehicle Maintenance Checks

• Check your vehicles air filter.

• Check the vehicles belts

• Check the brake, power steering and transmission fluids, as well as the coolant. Check for any leaks and add fluid if any are low.

• Check the engine oil level, check for any leaks and add oil if the level is low.

• Check all the seat belts, in both the front and back seats. Look for any fraying, confirm they are functioning properly and latch correctly.

• Check all the lights on the vehicle, both interior and exterior to verify they are functioning properly. Replace any bulbs that appear dim or burnt out completely.

Bi-annual Vehicle Maintenance Checks -

• Check the air pressure in the spare tire. Make sure it has the proper amount of pressure that is indicated on the side-wall. Some spare tires also known as "donuts" are NOT meant to be driven long distances and have a maximum speed of around 50 mph.

• Check the battery connections for any corrosion or grime. If any has accumulated, clean the area to prevent any damage to the battery.

• Check the parking brake by letting your vehicle roll while in neutral and pull on the vehicles parking brake to see if the vehicle stops rolling.

• Inspect the vehicle's door hinges, latches, and locks. Determine if they need to be lubricated, and if they are functioning properly. Also inspect the doors weather strips to determine if they are leaking.

• Test the horn to make sure it still is functioning.

• Inspect the shocks for any wear and tear and leakage of oil.

Maintenance Service Needed Every 3,000 to 5,000 Miles

• Change the oil and have the oil filter replaced. The oil and the oil filter need to be periodically replaced.

• Rotate the tires and have them balanced. Tire rotation is the practice of moving the wheels and tires of an automobile from one position to anot

Maintenance Service Needed Every 15,000 Miles or Annually

• Check the brakes. There are several components to the brakes. The brake pads, shoes, rotors and drums. Brake pads are steel backing plates with friction material bound to the surface that faces the disc brake rotor. The brake shoe carries the brake lining, which is riveted or glued to the shoe. When the brake is applied, the shoe moves and presses the lining against the inside of the drum. The friction between lining and drum provides the braking effort. Over time, these components are worn down from use, and may need to be replaced.

• Install new spark plugs. Spark plugs are an electrical device in some internal combustion engines which ignites fuel by means of an electric spark. Spark plugs will begin to corrode and will need to be replaced on a routine basis.

• Have the radiator flushed. A radiator keeps your car from overheating. Liquid coolant moves through the radiator and is cooled by heat exchange. Slush will eventually build up within the radiator and decreases the ability for the coolant to be effective. Flushing the radiator out will clear out the slush.

• Inspect the timing belt. A timing belt is a non-slipping mechanical drive belt that may loosen or fray over time from wear and tear.

Which of these is NOT an annual car maintenance need?

Changing the oil

Seating Position

1. Position the driver's seat to a position where you can reach the accelerator and have a minimum of ten inches between your chest and the steering wheel. The farther away from the steering wheel, the better.

2. Adjust the back of the seat and the height (if possible) so your chin is above the steering wheel to have the optimal visual field.

3. Position your right foot so you can comfortably reach the accelerator and also be able to move to the brake pedal without lifting your heel off of the floor.

4. Place your hands on the opposite sides of the steering wheel at the 4 and 8 o'clock positions to keep them away if the air bag engages.

Red indicates

a potential safety issue or serious problem, and you may have to stop driving your vehicle immediately

Yellow (sometimes orange) dashboard light

usually mean something needs to be repaired or serviced soon and to drive with caution.

Green (sometimes blue) dashboard lights

usually indicate a system is on or is operating.

If the “warning” symbol is flashing-

your vehicle is trying to inform you of an urgent situation with the corresponding system.

Check Engine Light:

Means the engine computer has triggered a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). This usually requires diagnosis with a professional scan tool. There are different reasons why your check engine light might turn on, including a failing gas cap or oxygen sensor. We will show you a video on the next page that discusses some of the reasons why the check engine light might illuminate.

Battery/Charging Alert:

Means your battery voltage level is below normal and the vehicle's charging system is not functioning properly. Check your battery terminals, alternator belt, and battery condition.

Coolant Temperature Warning:

This means that the coolant temperature has exceeded normal limits. Check your coolant level, fan operation, radiator cap, and look for coolant leaks.

ABS Warning:

This means that the Anti-lock Braking system has a problem and the ABS computer has triggered a code and needs professional diagnosis.

Cruise Control:

Means that the cruise control has been set during driving.

Security Alert:

If this symbol lights momentarily it may mean that the ignition switch is locked and will need the proper transponder-equipped key to re-start the engine. If the symbol is visible when the vehicle is on, then it typically indicates a malfunction in the security system.

Brake System:

This means one of three possible conditions: your parking brake is on; there is a problem with the braking system or brake fluid is low, or there is an ABS problem. Check your brake fluid and make sure the parking brake is fully released. If the problem is in the ABS system, you may need professional help.

Door Ajar:

This means that a door (including hood and trunk) is not closed. Open and close all doors, including the hood and trunk. If your vehicle is left in this condition overnight, it can drain the battery.

Airbag Fault:

If this light stays lit after starting, it means that the vehicle has found a fault in the airbag system and the computer has set a code. Professional repair of this supplemental restraint system is highly recommended.

Reduced Power Warning:

This means that the Engine Computer has limited engine power output. The ECM has many levels of reduced power depending on what component has failed in its control system. This usually requires diagnosis with a professional scan tool.

Fog Lamp:

This means that the vehicle's front fog lamps are illuminated.

Washer Fluid Reminder:

This means that the washer fluid is low. Fill the washer fluid reservoir. The cap has a symbol that looks like a windshield. Some vehicles have separate reservoirs for front and rear window washers.

Overdrive Light:

This symbol means that the vehicle's overdrive system has been manually turned off. Typically, the overdrive system is controlled by an on/off switch.

Traction Control or ESC:

This lights up when the vehicle's traction control/anti-skid or electronic stability control system is in use. This is usually an indicator that road conditions are slippery.

Lamp Out:

This means that there is an exterior light on the vehicle that is not functioning properly.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Fault:

This means that there is a problem with the vehicle's traction control/anti-skid or electronic stability system.

Service Vehicle Soon:

This usually means that there is a lighting or other electrical problem that is controlled by the BCM (body control module). Check all your lights (head lights, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights). This symbol may also be used to warn driver of a traction control problem, or a communication problem between modules.

Gas Cap:

The check gas cap light means that the gas cap is not tightened properly. If this is not addressed, the Check Engine Light may also illuminate.

Transmission Temperature:

This means that the transmission is operating at higher than optimum temperature because the transmission fluid is hotter than normal. Check your transmission fluid level and engine coolant level.

Oil Pressure Warning:

If this light stays lit, it indicates loss of oil pressure. Immediately check your oil level and pressure.

Oil Change Reminder:

This means that your oil life has expired. This is monitored by the engine control module (ECM); the interval can be mileage or a combination of readings taken by the ECM. Most vehicles require a manual reset. The reset procedure is explained in your owner's manual.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS):

This means that the tire pressure monitoring system has found a tire with low air pressure or there may be a sensor malfunction. Check your tire pressure. Some vehicles will allow manual reset of TPMS warning light and others will require professional diagnosis. Refer to your owner's manual.

instrument panel (which is the control panel usually located directly ahead of the driver)

includes an array of simple controls and instrumentation that show basic but important information about current driving and engine conditions.

The tachometer

the gauge that displays the engine's RPM's or 'revolutions per minutes'.

The odometer

measures the total distance that your vehicle has traveled.

The temperature gauge

indicates the temperature of your engine's coolant.

The fuel gauge

tells you how much gas you have left in your gas tank

The Speedometer

the gauge that measures and displays the instantaneous speed of your vehicle.

The Left Turn Indicator

means that you have used your 'left turn signal lever' (or blinker) to signal a turn to the left.

The Gear Selection Indicator

shows the particular transmission gear that has been selected.

The Battery Voltage Gauge

a voltmeter that monitors the battery.

The Oil Pressure Gauge

measures engine oil pressure in pounds per square inch.

The Right Turn Indicator

the display that means that you have used your 'right turn signal lever' (or blinker) to signal a turn to the right.

Tilt Wheel

helps drivers to adjust the steering wheel by moving the wheel through an arc in an up-and-down motion.

Adjustable Steering Column

allows steering wheel height to be adjusted with only a small, useful change in tilt.

Automatic Transmission -

a type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually.

Manual Transmission -

a type of transmission where the driver operates a foot pedal to engage and disengage the clutch to regulate torque transfer from the engine to the transmission and a gear selector operated by hand.

Park (P)

This selection mechanically locks the output shaft of the vehicle's transmission, restricting the vehicle from moving in any direction

Reverse (R)

This engages the reverse gear within the transmission, permitting the vehicle to be driven backward, and operates a switch to turn on the white backup lights for improved visibility.

Neutral (N)

This disengages all gear trains within the transmission, effectively disconnecting the transmission from the driven wheels, allowing the vehicle to coast freely under its own weight and gain momentum without the motive force from the engine.

Drive (D)

This position allows the transmission to engage the full range of available forward gear ratios, allowing the vehicle to move forward and accelerate through its range of gears.

Low Gear (L)

When your car is in drive, or D, the automatic transmission will shift through the gears as your speed increases.

Parking Brake

a latching brake usually used to keep the vehicle from moving.

Cruise Control

a system that automatically controls the speed of a motor vehicle.

The ignition

located near the steering wheel, on the right side of the steering column. It looks like a round piece of metal, with a keyhole in the center of it.

An immobilizer

an electronic security device fitted to an automobile that prevents the engine from running unless the correct key (or token) is present.

A rear view mirror must see-

200 feet in the rear of the vehicle.

Accelerator Pedal or gas pedal

located on the right and operated by the right foot. Depressing this pedal controls fuel and air supply to the engine, which in turn controls the speed of the vehicle. It

Brake Pedal

located to the left of the accelerator pedal. Slows the vehicle down by pressing down on the brake smoothly not rapidly.

Seat Belts

a vehicle safety device designed to secure the occupant of a vehicle against harmful movement that may result during a collision or a sudden stop.

Airbags

to provide the occupants a soft cushioning and restraint during a crash event to prevent any large forces between the flailing occupant and the interior of the vehicle.

Head restraint

refers to a device designed to limit the rearward displacement of an adult occupant's head in relation to the torso in order to reduce the risk of injury to the cervical vertebrae in the event of a rear impact.

Integrated head restraint or fixed head restraint

refers to a head restraint formed by the upper part of the seat back, or a head restraint that is not height adjustable and cannot be detached from the seat or the vehicle structure except by the use of tools or following the partial or total removal of the seat furnishing.

Adjustable head restraint

refers to a head restraint that is capable of being positioned to fit the form and structure (or morphology) of the seated occupant.

Active head restraint

refers to a device designed to automatically improve head restraint position and/or geometry during an impact.

Horn

a sound-making device that can be equipped to motor vehicles and other types of vehicles.

Turn Signal Lever

letting other drivers around you know what you intend to do

In which situation should you NOT use cruise control?

Around curves that require slowing down, in rough or loose terrain, in rainy or wet weather

A daytime running lamp

a vehicle lighting device on the front of a vehicle that automatically switches on when the vehicle is moving forward to increase the visibility of the vehicle during daylight hours.

Use low beams when

driving in cities and towns, except on streets where there is no lighting

A windshield wiper

a device used to remove rain, snow, ice and debris from a windscreen or windshield.

he hood latch handle is usually located;

below the steering wheel, beside the driver's seat or set into the door frame.

The trunk release lever or button is usually located;

on the left side of the driver's seat either on the floor or just below the dash board.

air conditioner

a device that removes heat from the air inside a vehicle and lowering the air temperature

heater

heats the air to increase the air temperature

Power windows or electric windows

are vehicle windows which can be raised and lowered by depressing a button or switch, as opposed to using a hand-turned crank handle.

How to Adjust the Driver Seat to Proper Driving Position

1. Position yourself correctly in the seat itself. Make sure you sit up straight and that your buttocks and back are square and completely squeezed into the seat.

2. Adjust the seat distance. The seat should always be positioned with regard to the pedals. Press the brake pedal fully with your right foot and fully depress the clutch (in a manual transmission car) or dead pedal (in an automatic). The distance should be adjusted so that with fully depressed pedals, your knees remain slightly bent.\

3. The feet should be placed with the heels on the floor and the balls of the feet pressing against the pedals.

   The right foot, in particular, should be able to pivot between the accelerator and the brake while the heel is placed roughly in front of the pedals.

   The left foot should be resting over the dead-pedal whenever not working on the clutch (or, in an automatic, at all times). This increases support to the pelvis and allows the driver to brace the body by applying pressure against the footrest in corners or in events of strong braking instead of hanging onto the pedals or steering.

4. Adjust the angle of the back of the seat. This should be as parallel as possible to the steering. It is impossible to reach a perfect parallel adjustment.

   We cannot reach a perfect adjustment because placing the seat too upright will put pressure on the lower vertebrae, place our head too high, and because the steering itself is placed in an angle. We can adjust the seat back to a relatively upright position and then use the adjustment of the steering itself to place it as parallel to the back as possible.

5. Adjust the seat height. This should allow us to see forward clearly, while still having a clear view of the dashboard, and proper height relative to the wheel and pedals. Adjust so that your eyes are placed just above the center of the glass, without the visor obstructing your forward vision when open.

   After readjusting the height, recheck the feet to make sure the height adjustments have not compromised their positions.

Gravity

a natural phenomenon by which all things with energy are brought toward (or gravitate toward) one another and affects an objects weight.

Kinetic Energy

is the energy that it possesses due to its motion.

Velocity

describes both how fast and in what direction the object is moving.

Inertia

is the resistance of any physical object to any change in its state of motion; this includes changes to its speed, direction or state of rest.

Momentum

is the product of the mass and velocity of an object.

Roll

is when the vehicles weight is transferred to the tires on the outside of a curve or turn.

Pitch

There are two types of pitch.

► Backward pitch, which is when vehicle weight is transferred from the front tires to the rear tires when the vehicle is accelerating.

► Forward pitch, which is when vehicle weight is transferred from the rear tires to the front tires when braking.

Yaw

transfer of the vehicles weight to the right or left or both (fishtailing) when the tires lose traction causing the vehicle to spin around its center of gravity.