Slide 1

1 Courtesy Inspection Report Slide 2 2 Purpose Every vehicle that enters the shop must have a completed Courtesy Inspection Report The Courtesy Inspection Report identifies any problems or damage to the vehicle that was present when the vehicle arrived at PCI The report also provides the owner of the vehicle with written documentation of any safety or service concerns that were observed by the technician prior to any service on the vehicle. Every vehicle that enters the shop must have a completed Courtesy Inspection Report The Courtesy Inspection Report identifies any problems or damage to the vehicle that was present when the vehicle arrived at PCI The report also provides the owner of the vehicle with written documentation of any safety or service concerns that were observed by the technician prior to any service on the vehicle. Slide 3 3 VIN number Every vehicle manufactured since 1981 has a unique 17 character Vehicle Identification Number [VIN] The VIN number may be needed to find service procedures and specifications in AllData, Identifix and for ordering parts Every vehicle manufactured since 1981 has a unique 17 character Vehicle Identification Number [VIN] The VIN number may be needed to find service procedures and specifications in AllData, Identifix and for ordering parts The VIN number is also needed when setting up a scan tool to interface with the vehicles computer network The VIN number is found on the left side of the windshield [drivers side] and also on the drivers door pillar The VIN number is also needed when setting up a scan tool to interface with the vehicles computer network The VIN number is found on the left side of the windshield [drivers side] and also on the drivers door pillar Slide 4 4 Model Year The model year is the 10 th digit of the VIN Slide 5 5 Model year in the VIN number Slide 6 6 Model Year The model year can also be found on the emissions placard normally located under the hood on top of the radiator support panel This placard is often called the VECI lable [Vehicle Emission Control Information] The model year can also be found on the emissions placard normally located under the hood on top of the radiator support panel This placard is often called the VECI lable [Vehicle Emission Control Information] Slide 7 7 Parking brake Prior to driving the car into the shop apply the parking brake when the vehicle stopped in an area where there is room for the vehicle to move safely if the parking brake does not hold Put the transmission into drive and release the foot brake The vehicle should not move when there is no pressure applied to the gas pedal Prior to driving the car into the shop apply the parking brake when the vehicle stopped in an area where there is room for the vehicle to move safely if the parking brake does not hold Put the transmission into drive and release the foot brake The vehicle should not move when there is no pressure applied to the gas pedal Slide 8 8 Parking brake It should take about 5 clicks in the parking brake ratchet for the brake to be tight enough to prevent the vehicle from moving. Slide 9 9 Parking brake manual transmission Find a place in the parking lot where it will be safe to test the parking brake Apply the parking brake With the engine running put the transmission into 1 st gear Without depressing the gas pedal slowly engage the clutch The engine should stall and the vehicle should not move If the vehicle moves the parking brake is not working properly Find a place in the parking lot where it will be safe to test the parking brake Apply the parking brake With the engine running put the transmission into 1 st gear Without depressing the gas pedal slowly engage the clutch The engine should stall and the vehicle should not move If the vehicle moves the parking brake is not working properly Slide 10 10 Parking brake After testing the its holding ability release the parking brake and check to see if the vehicle rolls freely Vehicles with automatic transmissions should creep normally when the foot brake is released Vehicles with manual transmissions should coast when the vehicles is moving slowly [ 1 to 2 mph] and the clutch pedal is fully depressed After testing the its holding ability release the parking brake and check to see if the vehicle rolls freely Vehicles with automatic transmissions should creep normally when the foot brake is released Vehicles with manual transmissions should coast when the vehicles is moving slowly [ 1 to 2 mph] and the clutch pedal is fully depressed Slide 11 11 Warning lights As you are driving the vehicle into the shop check the instrument panel for any unusual warning lights Slide 12 12 Brake warning light If the brake warning light remains illuminated when the parking brake is off it is likely that there is a problem with the brake hydraulic system If the fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir is low enough to trip the warning light there is a leak somewhere in the brake hydraulic system Slide 13 13 Brake warning light Some vehicles have two brake warning lights One light is used to indicate if the parking brake is set The other light indicates a brake hydraulic system failure Some vehicles have two brake warning lights One light is used to indicate if the parking brake is set The other light indicates a brake hydraulic system failure Parking brake indicator Hydraulic system failure indicator Slide 14 14 Brake pad warning light Some vehicles have wear sensors embedded in brake pads When the pads wear down to the minimum thickness the warning light is tripped A separate warning indicator light is used to distinguish pad wear from hydraulic failure Some vehicles have wear sensors embedded in brake pads When the pads wear down to the minimum thickness the warning light is tripped A separate warning indicator light is used to distinguish pad wear from hydraulic failure Slide 15 15 ABS warning light If the ABS system is deactivated the brakes will work normally but if a wheel were to begin to lock during a stop the ABS system could not prevent the wheel from locking, which could result in a loss of steering control The ABS warning light will usually flash when a fault is detected. On some vehicle the ABS light will flash a code indicating what component has failed If the ABS system is deactivated the brakes will work normally but if a wheel were to begin to lock during a stop the ABS system could not prevent the wheel from locking, which could result in a loss of steering control The ABS warning light will usually flash when a fault is detected. On some vehicle the ABS light will flash a code indicating what component has failed If the ABS warning light is illuminated when the brakes are not applied and the car is not in motion there is a failure in the ABS system Slide 16 16 Tire pressure warning indicator All cars built since MY 2007 have a wireless Tire Pressure Monitoring System [TPMS] The TPMS warning light illuminates when the pressure in any tire drops below 80% of the nominal air pressure Resetting the tires to the correct pressure should turn the warning light off All cars built since MY 2007 have a wireless Tire Pressure Monitoring System [TPMS] The TPMS warning light illuminates when the pressure in any tire drops below 80% of the nominal air pressure Resetting the tires to the correct pressure should turn the warning light off Slide 17 17 Charging system indicator The charging system indicator illuminates when the charging system voltage drops below 13.5 volts A broken serpentine belt is the most common cause of a charging system failure but a defective alternator / voltage regulator can also cause the light to come on Since the serpentine belt also drives the water pump and power steering pump the vehicle should never be driven when this light is illuminated A broken serpentine belt is the most common cause of a charging system failure but a defective alternator / voltage regulator can also cause the light to come on Since the serpentine belt also drives the water pump and power steering pump the vehicle should never be driven when this light is illuminated Slide 18 18 Oil pressure warning indicator The oil pressure indicator is typically illuminated when oil pressure is below 10 psi When oil pressure is between 10 and 15 psi the light may flicker Driving the vehicle with an illuminated oil pressure light could severely damage the engine The oil pressure indicator is typically illuminated when oil pressure is below 10 psi When oil pressure is between 10 and 15 psi the light may flicker Driving the vehicle with an illuminated oil pressure light could severely damage the engine Slide 19 19 Coolant temperature warning light The coolant temperature warning light normally illuminates when the temperature of the coolant exceeds 230 degrees F. Some vehicles have a coolant level sensor that has a slightly different symbol and normally is labeled low coolant or check coolant Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot! The coolant temperature warning light normally illuminates when the temperature of the coolant exceeds 230 degrees F. Some vehicles have a coolant level sensor that has a slightly different symbol and normally is labeled low coolant or check coolant Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot! Slide 20 20 SIR warning light If the SIR light is illuminated the system has failed its power on self test and the SIR system has been disabled by the SIR module In the event of an accident none of the air bags will inflate In some systems the SIR light flashes when a system failure is detected and is illuminated constantly if the SIR module is disconnected If the SIR light is illuminated the system has failed its power on self test and the SIR system has been disabled by the SIR module In the event of an accident none of the air bags will inflate In some systems the SIR light flashes when a system failure is detected and is illuminated constantly if the SIR module is disconnected The air bag system is called the Supplementary Inflatable Restraint system [SIR] Slide 21 21 Check Engine light The Check Engine light indicates that the vehicles self diagnostics system has detected a failure that will cause the vehicles emissions to exceed 150% of the federal emissions limits for that model / year The vehicle will not pass a state emissions test if the check engine light is illuminated In most cases you can continue to drive the vehicle although performance and fuel economy may be diminished The vehicle will not pass a state emissions test if the check engine light is illuminated In most cases you can continue to drive the vehicle although performance and fuel economy may be diminished Slide 22 22 Check Engine light A flashing Check Engine light indicates a engine misfire that is severe enough to damage the catalytic converter. The vehicle should not be driven until the misfire has been repaired If the Check Engine light is illuminated connect a scan tool to the vehicles OBDII diagnostic connector to read the code Slide 23 23 Service reminder lights Service reminder lights are commonly used for oil change intervals and are driven by the accumulated mileage since the service reminder was reset Some service reminders such as belt wear indicators are driven by sensors that are triggered when a component reaches its wear limit Service reminder lights are commonly used for oil change intervals and are driven by the accumulated mileage since the service reminder was reset Some service reminders such as belt wear indicators are driven by sensors that are triggered when a component reaches its wear limit Slide 24 24 Warning light prove out mode This allows the operator and the service technician to verify that all of the bulbs [LEDs] in the instrument cluster are working properly The instrument control module sends power to all of the warning lights in the instrument cluster for about 3 seconds after the ignition key is turned from off to run Slide 25 25 Record any illuminated warning lights If there are any warning lights illuminated in the comments block of the inspection report Slide 26 26 Check the operation of the lights If the bay that you are working in does not have convex mirrors at both ends you will need an assistant to help you check the lights Turn the headlight switch to the parking light position to check the operation of the front and rear parking lights and side marker lights Most modern cars have 2 bulbs at each corner one facing forward or back and the other facing toward the side. Make sure both bulbs are working If the bay that you are working in does not have convex mirrors at both ends you will need an assistant to help you check the lights Turn the headlight switch to the parking light position to check the operation of the front and rear parking lights and side marker lights Most modern cars have 2 bulbs at each corner one facing forward or back and the other facing toward the side. Make sure both bulbs are working Slide 27 27 Parking lights This vehicles headlight control module sends low current to the high beam bulb when the light switch is in the parking light position Wide dispersion forward facing bulb Wide dispersion sideways facing bulb Narrow dispersion high beam bulb projects light up to mile Slide 28 28 License plate lights The license plate lights are powered by the parking light circuit If there are two bulbs both must be working The license plate lights are powered by the parking light circuit If there are two bulbs both must be working Slide 29 29 Brake lights With the parking lights turned on have your assistant press the brake pedal and check that all 3 brake lights illuminate If any of the parking lights go out when the brake lights turn on there is likely a bad ground in the parking/brake light circuit Slide 30 30 Turn signals With the key in the run position and the headlights turned on apply the turn signals The turn signals should cycle once every two seconds. The cycle rate in a left turn should be the same as in a right turn The indicator lights in the instrument cluster should flash at the same rate as the bulbs Vehicles with side marker lights or lights incorporated in the outside mirrors should flash in unison with the front and rear turn signal lights With the key in the run position and the headlights turned on apply the turn signals The turn signals should cycle once every two seconds. The cycle rate in a left turn should be the same as in a right turn The indicator lights in the instrument cluster should flash at the same rate as the bulbs Vehicles with side marker lights or lights incorporated in the outside mirrors should flash in unison with the front and rear turn signal lights Slide 31 31 Turn signals The functioning of the turn signal lights should be checked with the parking lights on and off A bad ground in the light assembly is often only apparent when the parking lights are on The intensity of the right side turn signal light should be the same as the left side light This may occur if the wrong type of bulb is installed It can also be caused by a bad ground The turn signals should also be checked with the brake pedal depressed A bad ground in the brake light wiring can effect the operation of the turn signals The functioning of the turn signal lights should be checked with the parking lights on and off A bad ground in the light assembly is often only apparent when the parking lights are on The intensity of the right side turn signal light should be the same as the left side light This may occur if the wrong type of bulb is installed It can also be caused by a bad ground The turn signals should also be checked with the brake pedal depressed A bad ground in the brake light wiring can effect the operation of the turn signals Slide 32 32 Backup lights Put the transmission in reverse [key in run - engine off] and check to see if the reverse lights operate On a manual transmission vehicle you will normally need to depress the clutch pedal fully to get the gear selector to fully engage reverse gear. If the gear lever is not fully engaged the back up light switch will not turn on Put the transmission in reverse [key in run - engine off] and check to see if the reverse lights operate On a manual transmission vehicle you will normally need to depress the clutch pedal fully to get the gear selector to fully engage reverse gear. If the gear lever is not fully engaged the back up light switch will not turn on Slide 33 33 Headlight s low beam Check the operation of the high and low beams and check that the intensity of the lights is the same left and right Turn the headlight switch on and operate the high/low beam stalk Slide 34 34 Headlight s high beam Ideally the headlights are projected onto the garage door or a uncluttered wall to determine if there are major problems with headlight aiming. Any irregularities in headlight aiming should be noted Slide 35 35 Headlights instrument lights Turn the instrument light dimmer to the max and observe the gauges to see that all of them are illuminated With the headlights turned on make sure all the instrument lights are working [light bulbs that illuminated analog gauges]. Blown bulb in this quadrant Slide 36 36 Headlight covers Dull, scratched and yellowed headlight lenses [clear plastic covers over the reflector] should be noted Slide 37 37 Dome light The light in the ceiling of the vehicle is called the dome light If the dome light does not operate make sure it has not been turned off manually by operating the manual control switch on the light Make sure it illuminates when the door is opened and goes out when the door is closed Slide 38 38 Wipers and washers With the ignition key in the run position operate the wipers on all speeds Make sure the wiper arms return to the park position at the base of the windshield when the wiper switch is turned off Operate the washer pump and make sure the washer nozzles are not plugged up and are properly aimed With the ignition key in the run position operate the wipers on all speeds Make sure the wiper arms return to the park position at the base of the windshield when the wiper switch is turned off Operate the washer pump and make sure the washer nozzles are not plugged up and are properly aimed Slide 39 39 Rear wiper / washer Dont forget to check the operation of the rear wiper / washer Slide 40 40 Wipers and washers Observe the windshield while operating the washers. Heavy streaks of liquid on the windshield are evidence of worn wiper blades If the vehicle is equipped with a rear window wiper/washer check its operation as well Observe the windshield while operating the washers. Heavy streaks of liquid on the windshield are evidence of worn wiper blades If the vehicle is equipped with a rear window wiper/washer check its operation as well Slide 41 41 Horn Operate the horn and listen to the tone Most vehicles have dual horns produce two distinct tones that together make a more pleasant sound If the horn sounds weak or anemic its possible that only one of the horns is working Operate the horn and listen to the tone Most vehicles have dual horns produce two distinct tones that together make a more pleasant sound If the horn sounds weak or anemic its possible that only one of the horns is working Slide 42 42 Centering the vehicle on the lift The vehicle must be positions as close as possible to the center of the lift A B PCAUTO Slide 43 43 Setting the vehicle on a lift Have a spotter help guide you onto the lift The vehicle must be centered on the lift. If the distance between the drivers door and the left lift post is 26 and the passenger side is 36 the vehicle must be backed off the lift and repositioned so that the distance between the doors and post is nearly equal Have a spotter help guide you onto the lift The vehicle must be centered on the lift. If the distance between the drivers door and the left lift post is 26 and the passenger side is 36 the vehicle must be backed off the lift and repositioned so that the distance between the doors and post is nearly equal Slide 44 44 Centering the vehicle on the lift The vehicle must not be at an angle to the center line of the lift A B Slide 45 45 Centering the vehicle on the lift The weight of most passenger vehicles is concentrated toward the front of the vehicle The vehicle should be placed so that the center of gravity is as close as possible to a line connecting the centers of the two lift posts A tire stop plate is normally bolted to the floor where the left front tire should be positioned to set the vehicles center of gravity between the lift posts. Vehicles with long wheel bases or with a neutral or rearward weigh bias should be place so the left front tire is in front of the tire stop The weight of most passenger vehicles is concentrated toward the front of the vehicle The vehicle should be placed so that the center of gravity is as close as possible to a line connecting the centers of the two lift posts A tire stop plate is normally bolted to the floor where the left front tire should be positioned to set the vehicles center of gravity between the lift posts. Vehicles with long wheel bases or with a neutral or rearward weigh bias should be place so the left front tire is in front of the tire stop Tire stop Slide 46 46 Tire stop Most passenger cars are properly positioned when the left front tire is centered in the tire stop Slide 47 47 Tire stop position Wheel base less than 105 Wheel base 105 to 127 Wheel base larger than 127 Tire stop Slide 48 48 Jacking points For most unibody vehicles the pads for the lift arms should be placed directly under the pinch weld at the bottom of the rocker panel Slide 49 49 Pinch weld The pinch weld is the point on the car body where the floor connects to the rocker panels The rocker panels on a unit body vehicle are made of heavy gauge steel and are the ideal location for the lift pads to support the weight of the vehicle The pinch weld is the point on the car body where the floor connects to the rocker panels The rocker panels on a unit body vehicle are made of heavy gauge steel and are the ideal location for the lift pads to support the weight of the vehicle Rocker panel Pinch weld Floor panel Slide 50 50 Lift pad properly positioned on the pinch weld Pinch weld Slide 51 51 Jacking points The lift pads should be placed as close as possible to the wheel arch but still underneath the pinch weld Rocker panel Pinch weld Wheel arch Slide 52 52 Jacking points -Full frame vehicles Older domestic rear drive passenger cars, pickup trucks and larger SUVs often have frames The lift pads must be setup on the frame and not on the rocker panels Older domestic rear drive passenger cars, pickup trucks and larger SUVs often have frames The lift pads must be setup on the frame and not on the rocker panels Slide 53 53 Jacking points -Full frame vehicles The rocker panels on vehicles with full frames are made of light gauge metal and will bend if vehicle is raised with the lift pads in contact with them If the rocker panel extends below the frame rail the lift pads will need to be screwed upward so that the rocker panel does not contact the lift arm The rocker panels on vehicles with full frames are made of light gauge metal and will bend if vehicle is raised with the lift pads in contact with them If the rocker panel extends below the frame rail the lift pads will need to be screwed upward so that the rocker panel does not contact the lift arm Frame rail Body bushing [mount] Rocker panel Slide 54 54 Jacking points -Full frame vehicles Pickup trucks and full size vans often have frame rails that are several inches inboard and several inches above the rocker panels To prevent damage to the rocker panels when lifting the vehicle lift pad extensions are attached to the lift pad Pickup trucks and full size vans often have frame rails that are several inches inboard and several inches above the rocker panels To prevent damage to the rocker panels when lifting the vehicle lift pad extensions are attached to the lift pad Frame rail Rocker panel Extension Slide 55 55 Lift pad extensions Note damage to rocker panel when vehicle was raised without pad extensions Slide 56 56 Lift arm position For maximum stability and safety the arms of the lift should be extended as far apart as possible Front Slide 57 57 Unstable - lift arm position If the lift arms are too close together the vehicle becomes unstable. There is a possibility of the vehicle could fall off of the lift If the lift arms are too close together the vehicle becomes unstable. There is a possibility of the vehicle could fall off of the lift Front Slide 58 58 Other pick up points In some cases we wont be able to use the pinch weld while still having the lift arms spread as wide as possible The front sub-frame is robust enough to allow it to be used as an alternative lifting point Some parts of the rear suspension can also be used as lifting points. Check with you instructor before raising the vehicle In some cases we wont be able to use the pinch weld while still having the lift arms spread as wide as possible The front sub-frame is robust enough to allow it to be used as an alternative lifting point Some parts of the rear suspension can also be used as lifting points. Check with you instructor before raising the vehicle Front sub- frame Rear suspension dead axle Slide 59 59 The vehicle must be level Do not raise a vehicle in a upward or downward pitch attitude In this configuration the vehicle could slide off of the lift pads. This could result in personnel injury and damage to the vehicle Do not raise a vehicle in a upward or downward pitch attitude In this configuration the vehicle could slide off of the lift pads. This could result in personnel injury and damage to the vehicle Slide 60 60 Test the vehicle setup by shaking Once your satisfied that the vehicle and lift pads are positioned properly raise the vehicle about 18 off the floor and shake it by pressing up and down and side to side on the bumpers If the vehicle moves or if on of the lift pads is not in contact with the pinch weld or frame lower the vehicle and re-position the lift pads Once your satisfied that the vehicle and lift pads are positioned properly raise the vehicle about 18 off the floor and shake it by pressing up and down and side to side on the bumpers If the vehicle moves or if on of the lift pads is not in contact with the pinch weld or frame lower the vehicle and re-position the lift pads Slide 61 61 Raising the vehicle Depressing the pneumatic safety latch release while the pump motor is operating will reduce the noise level while the vehicle is raised Pneumatic safety latch release button Pump motor switch Slide 62 62 Lowering the vehicle The pneumatic safety release must be depressed while the hydraulic control valve is activated Hydraulic control valve Slide 63 63 Droplights You cant perform a visual inspection of the undercarriage of vehicle in the dark. A droplight is one of the most important tools in the technicians toolbox Corded incandescent droplights are still commonly used in the trade but the heat produced by the bulb can burn skin and can damage plastic vehicle components In incandescent drop light should never be used around flammable liquids [gasoline, motor oil, solvents etc.] You cant perform a visual inspection of the undercarriage of vehicle in the dark. A droplight is one of the most important tools in the technicians toolbox Corded incandescent droplights are still commonly used in the trade but the heat produced by the bulb can burn skin and can damage plastic vehicle components In incandescent drop light should never be used around flammable liquids [gasoline, motor oil, solvents etc.] Slide 64 64 LED rechargeable work light Rechargeable LED work lights are popular because: They generate very little heat They can last for several hours on an overnight charge They operate at low voltage levels which makes them much safer when working around flammable liquids Cordless design makes them much easier to use in tight places [under the dash etc.] Rechargeable LED work lights are popular because: They generate very little heat They can last for several hours on an overnight charge They operate at low voltage levels which makes them much safer when working around flammable liquids Cordless design makes them much easier to use in tight places [under the dash etc.] Slide 65 65 Visual undercarriag e inspection Slide 66 66 Brake inspection The condition of the front brake pads can sometimes be seen through the wheel spokes with the aid of a small flashlight. Slide 67 67 Brake Inspection The amount of pad wear can also be visually gauged by how far the pad has recessed into the anchor bracket Anchor bracket Brake Pad Slide 68 68 Brake inspection Plastic pad wear gauges can be used to measure pad thickness. Slide 69 69 Brake Inspection The thickness of the inboard pad can often be seen with the aid of a small flashlight Slide 70 70 Check for brake drag Check the amount of drag in the brakes as you rotate the wheels by hand If there is a large amount of drag when you try to rotate the wheels there could be a binding caliper or frozen parking brake cables. Check the amount of drag in the brakes as you rotate the wheels by hand If there is a large amount of drag when you try to rotate the wheels there could be a binding caliper or frozen parking brake cables. Slide 71 71 Flexible brake hoses Check the flexible brake hoses for cracking, blistering and twisting. Slide 72 72 Steel brake lines Check the steel brake lines for evidence of leakage or excessive rust at the hydraulic connections. Slide 73 73 Check for brake fluid leaks Check the bottom of the backing plate for evidence of brake fluid. Leaking fluids will collect at the bottom of the backing plate Slide 74 74 Rear brake inspection Check the rear calipers for evidence of fluid leaks, loose caliper mounting bolts and sticking or frozen parking brake cables. You can sometimes get a glimpse of the thickness of the inboard pads without removing the wheels. Check the rear calipers for evidence of fluid leaks, loose caliper mounting bolts and sticking or frozen parking brake cables. You can sometimes get a glimpse of the thickness of the inboard pads without removing the wheels. Parking brake lever should contact the stop on the cable bracket Check for fluid leakage from the shock absorber seal Slide 75 75 Steering rack boots The rubber boots that protect the inner tie rod ends should be inspected for tears and damage. Fluid leaking from the boot on a hydraulic power steering rack indicates leaking rack seals. The rubber boots that protect the inner tie rod ends should be inspected for tears and damage. Fluid leaking from the boot on a hydraulic power steering rack indicates leaking rack seals. Slide 76 76 Steering rack fluid leaks Power Steering fluid dripping down the side of the rack housing can usually be traced to the pinion shaft seal. Steering rack Front sub- frame Slide 77 77 Shock Absorbers Check the upper part of the shock absorber for evidence of leaking fluid. Check the shock bushings [top and bottom] for splitting and cracking. Check the upper part of the shock absorber for evidence of leaking fluid. Check the shock bushings [top and bottom] for splitting and cracking. Slide 78 78 Shock bushings Inspect the shock absorber bushings [upper and lower ends] for evidence of cracking or other damage Rubber bushing Slide 79 79 Check for strut leaks Check the area near the strut seal for evidence of fluid leaks. Check the strut boot for tears or deterioration. Check the area near the strut seal for evidence of fluid leaks. Check the strut boot for tears or deterioration. Strut boot Strut seal is inside the boot Slide 80 80 Stabilizer bar links Inspect the stabilizer [sway] bar links and the four link bushings for splitting and cracking. Stabilizer bar Stabilizer link bushings Slide 81 81 Tie rod inspection Grab a hold of the tire at 3 oclock and 9 oclock and twist back and forth to see if there is play in the tie rods Pull Push Slide 82 82 Ball joint inspection Grab a hold of the tire at 12 oclock and 6 oclock and push/pull to see if there is play in the ball joints Some suspension types need to be tested with the weight of the vehicle supported by the control arms Grab a hold of the tire at 12 oclock and 6 oclock and push/pull to see if there is play in the ball joints Some suspension types need to be tested with the weight of the vehicle supported by the control arms Pull Push Slide 83 83 Tie rod visual inspection Visually inspect the tie rod ends for torn boots and other damage Slide 84 84 Tie rod shake test Shake the tie rod up and down and side to side to check for looseness in the tie rod ends Slide 85 85 Damaged tie rod boots Check the tie rods and ball joints for split or damaged tie rod boots. Slide 86 86 Ball joint visual inspection Visually inspect the ball joint boots for leaks and tears Slide 87 87 Fluid leaks Examine the oil pan and the sides of the engine block for fluid leaks. Slide 88 88 Fluid leaks from bellhousing Most vehicles have a small drain hole at the bottom of the transmission bellhousing. Engine oil dripping from this hole indicates a leaking rear main [engine] seal. Transmission fluid would indicate a leaking torque converter hub seal and possibly a bad torque converter hub bushing. Most vehicles have a small drain hole at the bottom of the transmission bellhousing. Engine oil dripping from this hole indicates a leaking rear main [engine] seal. Transmission fluid would indicate a leaking torque converter hub seal and possibly a bad torque converter hub bushing. Bell housing drain hole Slide 89 89 Outboard constant velocity joints Check for rips, tears and grease leaking out of the outboard CV joints. Slide 90 90 Inboard constant velocity joint boots Check for grease leaking out of the rubber boots in the inboard CV joints. Check for leaking axle seals Slide 91 91 Checking Universal joints Twist the drive shaft back and forth while holding the pinion flange to see if there is any play in the u-joint. Pinion flange Rust around the trunions indicates the u-joint has failed Slide 92 92 Rubber universal joints Rubber universal joints should be checked for signs of cracking. Check for signs of cracking here Check pinion seal for leakage Slide 93 93 Catalytic converter rattle test Rap on the bottom of the catalytic converter with your fist If is a rattling noise is heard the converter may be damaged If the converter is hot use a rubber mallet Rap on the bottom of the catalytic converter with your fist If is a rattling noise is heard the converter may be damaged If the converter is hot use a rubber mallet Slide 94 94 Grab a hold of the exhaust pipes a several points and shake it side to side and up and down If a clunking noise is heard there may be broken exhaust hangers Grab a hold of the exhaust pipes a several points and shake it side to side and up and down If a clunking noise is heard there may be broken exhaust hangers Exhaust system inspection Slide 95 95 Tire inspection Tread depth Tire damage Abnormal wear patterns Inflation pressure Tread depth Tire damage Abnormal wear patterns Inflation pressure Slide 96 96 Tire tread depth gauge Tread depth gauge measure the depth of the tire grooves in 1/32 increments Slide 97 97 Poor mans tread depth gauge A penny can be used as a simple gauge to evaluate tread depth 2/32 Slide 98 98 Tire inflation pressure The correct tire inflation pressures are listed in the tire placard which is located on the drivers door jamb Slide 99 99 Tire inflation pressure The tire pressure printed on the sidewall should never be used as the basis for the tire pressure setting. The tire pressure setting is determined by the weight of the vehicle and the design of the tire The tire pressure printed on the sidewall should never be used as the basis for the tire pressure setting. The tire pressure setting is determined by the weight of the vehicle and the design of the tire Slide 100 100 Measuring tire pressure To measure tire pressure hold the end of the tire pressure gauge firmly against the tire stem Slide 101 101 Adding pressure Each line on the scale equals 2 psi The gauge here reads 24 psi Each line on the scale equals 2 psi The gauge here reads 24 psi Read the scale here Slide 102 102 Adding pressure Air pressure is added to the tire using a tire chuck Hold the chuck firmly against the tire stem for a few seconds to raise tire pressure 5 psi Air pressure is added to the tire using a tire chuck Hold the chuck firmly against the tire stem for a few seconds to raise tire pressure 5 psi Slide 103 103 Setting correct tire pressure Excess pressure can be bled off by depressing the Schrader valve for a few seconds The pin on the back of the pressure gauge is provided for this purpose Excess pressure can be bled off by depressing the Schrader valve for a few seconds The pin on the back of the pressure gauge is provided for this purpose Slide 104 104 Abnormal tire wear patterns This tire was driven for an extended period with low air pressure Under inflationOver inflation This tire was driven for an long time with too much air pressure Slide 105 105 Toe out wear When the inside edges of both tires on an axle are excessively worn the vehicle is in need of a wheel alignment. LeftRight Slide 106 106 Toe in wear Excessive wear on the outside edges of both tires on an axle are also caused by alignment problems In this case the wheels are towed in Excessive wear on the outside edges of both tires on an axle are also caused by alignment problems In this case the wheels are towed in LeftRight Slide 107 107 Edge wear on only one tire If only one tire shoe evidence of edge wear it is likely the result of excessive positive or negative camber on that wheel An alignment is needed to correct this problem If only one tire shoe evidence of edge wear it is likely the result of excessive positive or negative camber on that wheel An alignment is needed to correct this problem Slide 108 108 Sidewall scuffing Check the inside sidewalls of the front tires and the inner fender wells for evidence of scuffing between the fender and tire Suspension modifications, incorrect tires or incorrect rims can allow the tires to rub against the fenders during hard cornering Check the inside sidewalls of the front tires and the inner fender wells for evidence of scuffing between the fender and tire Suspension modifications, incorrect tires or incorrect rims can allow the tires to rub against the fenders during hard cornering Slide 109 109 Under hood fluid checks and visual inspection Slide 110 110 Engine oil level Not all modern cars have a dipstick for the oil level Some late model cars have an oil level sensor in the oil pan If the oil level drops below a minimum value a warning light [message] will appear on the instrument cluster Not all modern cars have a dipstick for the oil level Some late model cars have an oil level sensor in the oil pan If the oil level drops below a minimum value a warning light [message] will appear on the instrument cluster Slide 111 111 Engine oil level The twist in the dipstick keeps the dipstick from contacting the inner surface of the dipstick tube preventing false readings Dots on the dipstick are used to indicate the minimum and maximum level Some dipsticks have marks for hot and cold levels Dots on the dipstick are used to indicate the minimum and maximum level Some dipsticks have marks for hot and cold levels Slide 112 112 Oil viscosity If the oil level needs to be topped off the correct oil viscosity is printed on the oil filler cap Slide 113 113 Dipstick o-ring This could cause a drivability problem and could trigger the check engine light. Also, the PCV [Positive Crankcase Ventilation] system will not function as designed is loose This could cause a drivability problem and could trigger the check engine light. Also, the PCV [Positive Crankcase Ventilation] system will not function as designed is loose The dipstick is sealed to the dipstick tube by an o-ring Make sure the dipstick is pushed all the way down into the dipstick tube so that air cannot enter the crankcase through the tube The dipstick is sealed to the dipstick tube by an o-ring Make sure the dipstick is pushed all the way down into the dipstick tube so that air cannot enter the crankcase through the tube Slide 114 114 Removing radiator cap Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot Serious personal injury can result if the cap is remove while the engine is still hot Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot Serious personal injury can result if the cap is remove while the engine is still hot Wait until the upper radiator hose is warm to the touch before removing the cap Slide 115 115 Checking the level of coolant The coolant in the expansion tank is normally visible from the outside The expansion tank provides room for the coolant to expand as the engine heats up The coolant in the expansion tank is normally visible from the outside The expansion tank provides room for the coolant to expand as the engine heats up Full line Slide 116 116 Radiator should be full The radiator should be full to the top If it is not and the expansion tank has a normal coolant level the radiator cap is faulty or the filler neck in the radiator is damaged Slide 117 117 Surge tank Many cooling systems use a pressurized tank to allow for coolant expansion The pressure cap is located on the surge tank and it replaces the radiator cap The surge tank is normally located on the inner fender or firewall Many cooling systems use a pressurized tank to allow for coolant expansion The pressure cap is located on the surge tank and it replaces the radiator cap The surge tank is normally located on the inner fender or firewall Threaded pressure cap Slide 118 118 Topping off antifreeze If coolant needs to be add check AllData for the correct antifreeze type There are four common types of antifreeze used in modern cars and although they all chemically compatible it is a best practice to use the same type of antifreeze as the manufacture recommends when topping off the coolant level The color of the antifreeze varies among brands and is not a good indicator of the type of antifreeze If coolant needs to be add check AllData for the correct antifreeze type There are four common types of antifreeze used in modern cars and although they all chemically compatible it is a best practice to use the same type of antifreeze as the manufacture recommends when topping off the coolant level The color of the antifreeze varies among brands and is not a good indicator of the type of antifreeze Slide 119 119 Checking antifreeze concentration A hydrometer, refractometer or antifreeze tester should be used to check if the antifreeze concentration is sufficient to prevent the coolant from freezing in sub zero weather A freezing point of - 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower is recommended for all vehicles A hydrometer, refractometer or antifreeze tester should be used to check if the antifreeze concentration is sufficient to prevent the coolant from freezing in sub zero weather A freezing point of - 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower is recommended for all vehicles Slide 120 120 Brake fluid level The brake fluid reservoir is translucent which allows you to see the fluid level without removing the cap. If the fluid level is between the Min and Max line do not top off The fluid level drops as the pads wear. If fluid is added to the reservoir the extra fluid will overflow and may leak onto the paintwork when new pads are installed If the fluid level is below the Min line there is a hydraulic leak that must be repaired before the vehicle is driven The brake fluid reservoir is translucent which allows you to see the fluid level without removing the cap. If the fluid level is between the Min and Max line do not top off The fluid level drops as the pads wear. If fluid is added to the reservoir the extra fluid will overflow and may leak onto the paintwork when new pads are installed If the fluid level is below the Min line there is a hydraulic leak that must be repaired before the vehicle is driven Max line Slide 121 121 Clutch master cylinder If the fluid in the clutch master cylinder is below the Min line there is a leak in the hydraulic clutch system that must be repaired Slide 122 122 Power steering fluid level Most late model cars have a remote power steering reservoir mounted on the inner fender Older cars and trucks normally have the PS fluid reservoir mounted directly on the pump Most late model cars have a remote power steering reservoir mounted on the inner fender Older cars and trucks normally have the PS fluid reservoir mounted directly on the pump Slide 123 123 Windshield washer fluid Sometimes the tank is mounted behind the fender well where the fluid level cannot be seen A dipstick in the cap is used to measure the fluid level Sometimes the tank is mounted behind the fender well where the fluid level cannot be seen A dipstick in the cap is used to measure the fluid level Slide 124 124 Automatic transmission fluid Most vehicles require that the ATF [Automatic Transmission Fluid] level be checked with the engine running and the transmission hot The ATF level is best checked after the vehicle has been driven for about 5 miles Most vehicles require that the ATF [Automatic Transmission Fluid] level be checked with the engine running and the transmission hot The ATF level is best checked after the vehicle has been driven for about 5 miles Many FWD cars have thermostatic valves that have thermostatic valves the alter the fluid levels in different sections of the transaxle as temperature changes Slide 125 125 Auto trans fluid level, color and smell The fluid color should be pink and should not have any bubbles or foam Fluid that is black and smells burnt is cause for concern and should be noted on the report The fluid color should be pink and should not have any bubbles or foam Fluid that is black and smells burnt is cause for concern and should be noted on the report The fluid level should be at the full / hot mark after 5 miles of driving Slide 126 126 Radiator hose condition A bad hose can often be detected by squeezing the end of the hose near the radiator A bad hose is soft and squishy compared to a new hose A bad hose can often be detected by squeezing the end of the hose near the radiator A bad hose is soft and squishy compared to a new hose The radiator hoses should be examined for cracking and swelling Radiator hoses deteriorate from the inside out The radiator hoses should be examined for cracking and swelling Radiator hoses deteriorate from the inside out Slide 127 127 Heater hoses The heater hoses should be visually inspected for cracks and loose or damaged hose clamps Slide 128 128 Accessory drive belts On manually tensioned belts you should not be able to twist the belt with your fingers more than 90 degrees Slide 129 129 Accessory drive belts Drive belts should be checked for condition and tension [manually tensioned belts] The lower radiator hose will not collapse when squeezed because it has an internal spring Slide 130 130 Battery terminals and hold down Visually inspect the battery terminals for corrosion Check to see if terminals are tight by twisting them with your fingers Make sure the battery hold down holds the battery firmly on the battery tray Visually inspect the battery terminals for corrosion Check to see if terminals are tight by twisting them with your fingers Make sure the battery hold down holds the battery firmly on the battery tray Slide 131 131 Complete the report Anything that you find that is out of the ordinary should be written on the inspection report If necessary use the back side of the report for additional comments Anything that you find that is out of the ordinary should be written on the inspection report If necessary use the back side of the report for additional comments