Unit 3970: Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Systems

1. Introduction to Basic Car Maintenance

• Importance of regular maintenance
• Checking oil levels
  • Types of oil
  • How to check and top up oil
• Checking tire pressure
  • Recommended pressure levels
  • Using tire pressure gauges
• Checking fluid levels
  • Coolant
  • Brake fluid
  • Windshield washer fluid
  • Transmission fluid

2. Engine Systems Overview

• Components of an engine system
• Fuel system
  • Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors
  • Fuel types and their effects
• Ignition system
  • Spark plugs, ignition coil, distributor
• Cooling system
  • Radiator, thermostat, coolant circulation
• Exhaust system
  • Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler

3. Braking Systems and Maintenance

• Types of braking systems
  • Disc brakes vs drum brakes
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS) overview
• Maintenance tasks
  • Inspecting and changing brake pads
  • Checking and topping up brake fluid
  • Signs of brake wear and issues

4. Electrical Systems in Vehicles

• Overview of vehicle electrical systems
• Battery
  • Function and maintenance
  • Testing battery health
• Alternator
  • Role in charging system
• Starter motor
  • Starting the engine
• Wiring and fuses
  • Common wiring issues
• Troubleshooting common electrical problems

5. Steering and Suspension Systems

• Steering system components
  • Steering rack, tie rods, power steering
• Suspension system components
  • Shocks, struts, springs
• Diagnosing steering and suspension issues
• Repair and maintenance procedures

6. Transmission Systems

• Types of transmission systems
  • Manual transmission overview
  • Automatic transmission overview
• Maintenance tasks
  • Checking and changing transmission fluid
  • Identifying transmission problems

7. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems

• HVAC system components
  • Compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower fan
• How HVAC systems work
• Common HVAC issues and troubleshooting
• Basic repair techniques

8. Diagnostic Tools and Equipment

• Overview of common diagnostic tools
  • OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) scanners
  • Multimeters
  • Hydraulic lifts and jacks
• Proper use of diagnostic equipment
• Interpreting diagnostic data

9. Safety Practices in Motor Vehicle Mechanics

• Importance of safety in the workshop
• Proper tool handling
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Safety protocols when working on vehicles
• Handling hazardous materials safely