Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance

Chapter 13: Vehicle Maintenance Inspection

Lesson Objectives

• Perform in-vehicle inspection.

• Perform fluid inspection.

• Perform belt, hose, and air filter/cabin air filter inspection.

• Perform under-vehicle inspection.

• Perform exterior vehicle inspection.

Introduction to Vehicle Inspection

• Importance of regular inspection and maintenance: Ensures safe and reliable operation of the vehicle.

• Common types of inspection:

  • Basic inspection

  • In-depth inspection

  • State safety inspection

  • Certified used car inspection

  • Vehicle prepurchase inspection

• Documentation: Record the inspection process using paper or electronic forms.

  • Technicians need to:

    • Take detailed notes and pictures.

    • Follow manufacturer’s procedures and specifications.

In-Vehicle Inspection

Key Factors in In-Vehicle Inspection

• Typical In-Vehicle Concerns: Often overlooked by drivers, including inspection of the instrument cluster and warning lights.

• Observation Checklist:

  • Check engine sounds, feel of pedals, and any malfunction indicator lamps (MIL).

  • A illuminated MIL indicates the need to check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Brake Inspection

• Brake Pedal Conditions:

  • Changes in resistance may indicate problems; low or hard pedal is a concern.

  • Listen for unusual sounds (high-pitched scraping or grinding).

• Parking Brake Check:

  • Ensure it holds the vehicle in position when parked.

  • Test by observing how far the vehicle travels when the brake is applied.

  • Avoid testing in freezing temperatures.

Fluid Inspection

Importance of Fluid Inspections

• Frequency: Conduct underhood inspections at recommended intervals or before long trips.

• Fluid Types to Inspect:

  • Engine oil

  • Brake fluid

  • Power steering fluid

  • Transmission fluid

  • Coolant

  • Windshield washer fluid

  • Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF)

Engine Oil Levels

• Checking Methods:

  • Vehicle must be on level surface, engine off.

  • Use a dipstick to check levels; marked for full and add.

• Consequences of Low or High Oil:

  • Too low: oil pump may starve.

  • Too high: oil churns, leading to foaming.

Belt, Hose, and Air Filter/Cabin Air Filter Inspection

Engine Drive Belts

• Types of Belts:

  • V-belts and Serpentine belts.

• Inspection Criteria:

  • Check for cracks, tears, oil soaking, and glazing.

Hoses Inspection

• Types of Hoses:

  • Radiator and heater hoses.

• Inspection Tips:

  • Feel hoses for consistent firmness; inspect when engine cool.

Air Filter Check

• Function: Protects the engine from debris.

• Inspection Process:

  • Check air cleaner housing for damage, remove filter to inspect cleanliness.

Under-Vehicle Inspection

Systematic Under-Vehicle Assessment

• Purpose: Visual inspection of major systems and to detect observable problems such as tire issues or leaks.

• Steps:

  • Check tire pressure, tread depth, and wear patterns.

  • Perform visual checks for structural damage and undercarriage condition.

Exterior Vehicle Inspection

Importance of Exterior Checks

• Perform during service visits: Ensures that critical external systems are functioning properly.

• Key Components to Inspect:

  • Lights (headlights, brake lights)

  • Wiper blades

  • Windshield condition

  • Shock absorbers

Practical Application

Scenario-Based Inspection

• Conduct routine maintenance on a scheduled vehicle including:

  • Change the oil and filter.

  • Rotate tires.

  • Inspect brake, steering, and suspension systems.

• Noticed Issues:

  • Low brake fluid, smearing wiper blades, and inoperable left rear brake light needing a bulb replacement.

Review Questions

1. What two conditions can low brake fluid level indicate?

2. How do you determine what engine oil to use?

3. What is done during a tire inspection?

4. How are shock absorbers inspected?

5. How should warning lights react when you start the engine?