Maintaining Your Vehicle

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Chapter 17

• Maintaining Your Vehicle

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Chapter 17 Overview

• Chapter 17 explains proper maintenance of a
  vehicle for safety, efficiency, and economy of
  operation. You will learn how various systems
  operate and how to maintain them. Preventive
  maintenance is addressed, including day-to-day
  care and routine servicing. The lesson on
  fuel-saving and recycling strategies includes
  facts about fuel efficiency and vehicle design.

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17.1 Maintaining the Power Systems

• This section introduces vehicle power systems,
  explains their functions, and describes the
  procedures for maintaining them. The power
  systems addressed are power and drive systems,
  ignition and electrical systems, lubrication and
  cooling systems, and fuel and emission systems.
• Section 1 Objectives Following this section, I
  will be able to
• 1. Identify the warning signs for needed repairs
  for the power and drive systems, ignition and
  electrical systems, and fuel and exhaust systems.
• 2. Describe the steps to follow to start a
  vehicle that has a dead battery.

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17.1 Vocabulary

• At the conclusion of this section, I will be able
  to define
• 1. alternator
• 2. carburetor
• 3. catalytic converter
• 4. differential
• 5. drive shaft
• 6. fuel-injection system
• 7. muffler
• 8. oil pump
• 9. power plant
• 10. radiator
• 11. thermostat
• 12. transaxle
• 13. transmission, and
• 14. water pump

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17.1 Maintaining the Power Systems

• Your vehicle has many systems. Knowing about
  them and referring to your owners manual will
  help you handle problems that might occur.

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Power and Drive Systems

• Powerplant (engine)- source of energy that
  maintains a vehicles movement.
• Transmission- houses different gears to deliver
  power to the drive wheels at different speeds.
• Drive shaft- long metal tube in rear-wheel drive
  vehicles that carries power from the engine to
  the differential.
• Differential- located in rear of rear-wheel drive
  vehicles. It allows one wheel to turn more
  slowly than the other when turning corners.

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Power and Drive Systems

• Transaxle- located between the two half shafts on
  the front-wheel drive vehicles and replaces the
  transmission and differential.
• Check automatic transmission or transaxle fluid
  frequently.

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Ignition and Electrical Systems

• Alternator- generates an electrical current that
  recharges the battery.
• Battery- provides power for the starter, lights,
  computer assisted controls, and other electrical
  accessories. Keep your cables tight and clean.
  Battery acid is very strong and can cause severe
  injury.

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Starting a Vehicle That Has a Dead Battery

• 1. Bring the two vehicles close together but do
  not let them touch.
• 2. Place both vehicles in PARK and set the
  parking brake. Turn off the engine of the
  vehicle with the good battery.
• 3. Look for the (POS) and (NEG) terminals on
  each battery.
• 4. Clamp the red cable to the POS terminal of
  the good battery and then connect the other end
  to the POS terminal of the dead battery.
• 5. Clamp the black cable to the NEG terminal of
  the good battery.
• 6. Clamp the other end of the black cable to a
  negative ground on the vehicle with the dead
  battery. (Do not clamp the negative cable to the
  bad batterys negative post.)

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Starting a Vehicle That Has a Dead Battery

• 7. Start the vehicle with the good battery and
  let it run for a few minutes. Then start the
  vehicle with the dead battery.
• 8. Remove the cables in the opposite order in
  which they were attached.
• 9. Throw away any cloth materials that may have
  battery acid on it.

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Lubrication and Cooling Systems

• Lubrication is the use of oil, grease, and other
  substances to reduce damage to moving parts from
  heat caused by friction.
• Cooling is a process of reducing heat that builds
  up in a vehicles engine or transmission.
• Proper lubrication and cooling keeps the systems
  operating efficiently.

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Lubrication System

• (See diagram on page 360.) The oil pump forces
  oil from the oil pan through the oil filter.
  From the filter, oil travels through oil lines to
  the engines moving parts. Oil is returned to the
  oil pan, and then the cycle starts all over
  again.
• The oil needs to be changed regularly (usually
  every 2,500 3,000 miles or every 3 months,
  which ever comes first).
• Your vehicle may need to be greased periodically.

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Cooling Systems

• The radiator holds and cools the coolant, a
  mixture of water and antifreeze.
• The water pump draws coolant from the radiator
  and forces it through the engines cooling
  system. The fan draws air through the radiator
  top help cool the coolant.
• The thermostat opens and closes to control the
  flow of coolant to the radiator.
• It is suggested that the cooling system be
  flushed and replenished with new coolant at least
  once every two years.

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Fuel System

• The fuel pump draws fuel from the fuel tank
  through the fuel line. Fuel is then pumped to
  the carburetor or fuel-injection system.
• Air is drawn through the air filter and mixes
  with the fuel.
• Fuel injection systems deliver the exact amount
  of the gas/air mixture to the cylinders to gain
  the maximum power and fuel efficiency.

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Emission System

• The combustion process creates exhaust. The
  emission system takes the exhaust and
  recirculates unburned fuel back into the
  combustion process for greater efficiency.
• The catalytic converter converts harmful gases
  into less harmful gases and water.
• The muffler reduces the noise from combustion in
  the engine. After passing through the muffler,
  the exhaust leaves through the tailpipe at the
  rear of the vehicle.
• Have the emission system checked periodically to
  ensure there are no leaks in the system. This
  will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide
  poisoning.

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Review It

• 1. Name at least one warning sign that indicates
  needed repairs for each of these systems power,
  drive, ignition, electrical, lubrication,
  cooling, fuel, and exhaust.
• 2. What are the proper steps for starting a
  vehicle that has a dead battery?

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17.2 Maintaining the Control Systems

• This section introduces the vehicles control
  systems, explains their functions, and describes
  the procedures for maintaining them. The control
  systems addressed are steering, brake,
  suspension, and traction control.
• Section 2 Objectives Following this section, I
  will be able to
• 1. Identify the warning signs that might
  indicate the need for repair of the steering,
  brake, or suspension systems.
• 2. Identify ways to maintain tires for longer
  wear.

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17.2 Vocabulary

• At the conclusion of this section, I will be able
  to define
• 15. belted tire
• 16. master cylinder
• 17. power steering
• 18. radial tire

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17.2 Maintaining the Control Systems

• Steering system- steering wheel, steering column,
  steering gear, and the connections to the front
  wheels.
• Power steering- a system that uses a hydraulic
  pump and fluid to make steering easier. Avoid
  turning the steering wheel when the vehicle is
  not moving as it causes wear on the steering
  system.
• Steering problems can be serious and need to
  repaired immediately. Check for play or
  excessive movement in the steering wheel
  steering difficulty, even though tires are
  properly inflated shimmying or wobbling, or
  shaking or pulling to one side under normal
  driving conditions or squealing sounds when you
  make turns.

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Brake System

• Good brakes are essential for safe operation of
  your vehicle. How long they last depends upon
  how you use them and your driving conditions.
• Brake system has four individual brakes (one on
  each wheel), brake lines, brake fluid, wheel
  cylinders, and a master cylinder.
• Master cylinder- has two parts and each part
  controls two wheels. Brake fluid is forced from
  the master cylinder through the brake lines to
  each of the wheels brake cylinders. The cylinder
  at each wheel forces the brake shoes or pads
  against the brake drum or disk. This causes
  friction which slows and stops the vehicle. (see
  picture on p. 363)

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Brake System

• Never drive a vehicle with a faulty brake system,
  regardless of the distance.
• A vehicles brakes will adjust when backing in
  reverse. To adjust the brakes, stop, back up,
  and brake firmly. Repeat several times. If
  brake pedal still goes closer than 2 to the
  floor, get your brakes inspected.
• Look for brake problem indicators spongy feel
  to brakes pedal pulling to one side when
  stopping grabbing or uneven brake action
  squealing or chattering noises in the brakes a
  need to push the brake harder than usual to stop
  the vehicle.

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Brake System

• The parking brake is connected to the rear brakes
  through a separate brake system. The parking
  brake should hold a vehicle on a hill. Keep it
  in good working condition.
• Keep the brake fluid in the master cylinder
  filled to the proper level with the correct
  fluid.
• Have your brakes checked on an annual basis or
  when you think there may be a problem.

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Suspension System

• Provides you with a comfortable ride and keeps
  your tires going in the direction you are
  steering.
• Consists of a series of rods, bars, springs,
  shocks absorber or strut assembly at each wheel,
  and other components.
• Check your vehicles bounce and for uneven tire
  wear. These may be an indication of a problem
  with the suspension.

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Tires

• They are the lifeline to the roadway.
• Tire construction
• 1. belted tire- has special layers added to a
  bias-ply tire for improved strength, performance,
  and mileage.
• 2. radial tire- strengthened with steel belts
  running just under the tread. Better tread
  mileage, traction, and fuel economy compared to
  other tires.
• Inflation and tread- keep tires properly inflated
  at all times. Low inflation causes tires to wear
  quickly. Keep air gauge in vehicle.

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Rotation and Alignment

• Rotate your tires regularly to promote longer
  tire life. Every other oil change or 6,000 miles
  is generally what is recommended for rotating
  your tires.
• Follow your owners manual for the recommended
  pattern of rotation for your vehicle. (see
  picture on p. 366)
• Have tires balanced periodically to promote even
  wear.
• Have your wheels aligned periodically. This is
  especially important for front-wheel drive
  vehicles as it increases the life of the tire and
  reduces excessive and uneven wear.

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Replacing Tires

• When tires are worn there will be a wear bar that
  shows up. It is a smooth bar that appears across
  your tires tread.
• When the wear bar is seen it is time to replace
  that tire.
• Replace with the same size and type of tire.
• Never use a radial tire with another type of
  tire. They do not react the same as belted tires.

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Tire Quality and Grading

• See page 367 for the chart that refers to Grades
  of Tires.
• Read the box at the bottom of the chart for
  further explanation of how tires are graded.

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Notes

• Most tires have a rubber life as well as a tread
  life. Check tires periodically for cracks and
  dryness. This is particularly important for
  low-mileage vehicles.
• Low-inflation tires, also called run-flat tires,
  allow a driver to drive for up to 50 miles at
  speeds greater than 50 mph, even though the tire
  has lost its pressure. Another innovation is a
  tire that seals itself when punctured by things
  like nails.
• A vehicle with oversize tires may not display or
  record accurate speed or mile readings on the
  speedometer or odometer.

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Review It

• 1. Identify at least one repair warning sign for
  the steering, brake, and suspension systems.
• 2. How can you maintain tires for longer wear?

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17.3 Preventive Maintenance

• This section introduces preventive maintenance,
  including routine checks and scheduled service.
  Suggestions for selecting a qualified technician
  are included.
• Section 3 Objectives Following this section, I
  will be able to
• 1. List preventive maintenance checks to make
  before and after starting the vehicle, while
  driving, and when fueling or servicing the
  vehicle.
• 2. Explain how to find a qualified mechanic or
  technician.

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17.3 Vocabulary

• At the conclusion of this section, I will be able
  to define
• 19. preventive maintenance

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Preventive Maintenance

• This is the routine care and attention you give
  to your vehicle to avoid trouble later.
• This includes the day-to-day care as well as the
  periodic recommended services as outlined in your
  owners manual.
• Manufacturer or dealer warranty may not stay in
  effect if maintenance schedules are not followed.
  Be sure to keep records and receipts of work
  done on your vehicle.

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Routine Checks

• Outside checks before getting in the vehicle-
  (different colors of fluids in diagram on p. 368)
• Inside vehicle checks after your engine has
  started-
• While driving-
• At a fuel stop-

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Selecting a Qualified Technician

• Vehicles are complex machines. It is important
  that you find a reliable service and repair
  location staffed with trained and certified
  technicians and mechanics.
• How would you select a qualified mechanic?
• Some people compare the selection of a good
  technician or mechanic to looking for a family
  physician. You want someone who is well-trained,
  experienced, professional, and trustworthy.
  Proper maintenance and repairs will help preserve
  your vehicle, one of your largest investments.

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State Vehicle Inspections

• Some states require periodic vehicle inspections
  (Missouri requires annual vehicle inspections).
• Inspections can detect safety-related problems
  before they become hazards. Defects must be
  repaired before vehicle can be licensed.

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Review It

• 1. List some preventive maintenance checks you
  should make before and after starting the
  vehicle, while driving, and when stopping for
  fuel.
• 2. List the steps you can take to find a
  qualified technician or mechanic.

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17.4 Fuel-Saving and Recycling Strategies

• This section presents information on innovations
  in design and technology that influence the ways
  vehicles look and perform. Lesson topics include
  facts about fuel efficiency, calculating miles
  per gallon, vehicle design, engine improvements,
  and recycling strategies.
• Section 4 Objectives Following this section, I
  will be able to
• 1. Identify ways you can improve a vehicles
  fuel efficiency.
• 2. Explain how to calculate miles per gallon of
  fuel consumption.
• 3. Identify strategies for recycling
  automotive-related materials.

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17.4 Vocabulary

• At the conclusion of this section, I will be able
  to define
• 20. engine management system

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Facts About Fuel Efficiency

• Most vehicles are most fuel efficient between 50
  55 mph.
• Keep windows closed at speeds of 45 mph or
  greater to cut wind resistance.
• For every 5 mph over 55 mph most cars get about
  1.5 fewer miles per gallon.
• While driving in the city, coast to stops and
  moderately accelerate. Jack-rabbit starts and
  stops waste fuel.

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Facts About Fuel Efficiency

• If possible use a vehicle with a warm engine. A
  warm engine is more fuel-efficient than a cold
  engine.
• The greatest fuel consumption is within the first
  few minutes after starting a cold engine.
• The most efficient way to warm your engine is to
  drive at moderate speeds for the first few miles.
• Avoid excessive idling to avoid wasting fuel.

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Calculating Miles Per Gallon

• Most drivers want to get the most mpg possible.
• Checking your fuel economy can give you a
  indication of potential mechanical problems.
• Number of miles driven MPG
• Number of gallons used

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Vehicle Design

• Designs have been streamlined to reduce wind
  resistance and help increase fuel efficiency.
• Vehicles have become lighter and smaller.
• Lighter-weight materials and plastics have
  replaced older, heavier steel and metal
  components.
• Smaller, lighter vehicles need less power to move
  increasing fuel efficiency.

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Engine Improvements

• Smaller engines have become more common. Smaller
  engines provide better fuel economy.
• Engine management systems which use electronic
  ignitions and computers help engines operate and
  use fuel efficiently.

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Recycling Strategies

• It is important to recycle automotive materials
  such as motor oil, antifreeze, and batteries
  because they are hazardous to health and the
  environment.
• If you work on your own vehicle you will need to
  find a place to recycle your automotive-related
  materials.

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Review It

• 1. What are some ways to improve the fuel
  efficiency of your vehicle?
• 2. Explain how to calculate miles-per-gallon of
  fuel consumption.
• 3. What are at least three examples of
  automotive-related items that can be recycled?