Auto Test page

Symptoms

• Engine running roughly
• Jerking or bucking during acceleration
• Reduced power
• Increased fuel consumption
• Check engine light on

Common Causes

• Faulty spark plugs
• Bad ignition coils
• Clogged fuel injectors
• Vacuum leaks
• Low compression

Parts Affected

• Spark plugs
• Ignition coils
• Fuel injectors
• Vacuum lines
• Engine cylinders

Tools Required

• OBD-II scanner
• Spark plug socket
• Ratchet and socket set
• Multimeter

Repair Procedure

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to read error codes
2. Check and replace faulty spark plugs if needed (change every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on type)
3. Inspect and test ignition coils, replace if defective
4. Clean or replace fuel injectors if clogged
5. Check for vacuum leaks using a smoke machine or spray bottle with soapy water
6. Perform a compression test if the problem persists

Symptoms

• Oil spots under the vehicle
• Burning oil smell
• Low oil level
• Smoke from engine area

Common Causes

• Worn gaskets or seals
• Loose oil drain plug
• Damaged oil pan
• Deteriorated valve cover gasket
• Oil filter issues

Parts Affected

• Gaskets (valve cover, oil pan)
• O-rings
• Oil filter
• Oil pan
• Oil drain plug

Tools Required

• Jack and jack stands
• Oil drain pan
• Wrenches
• Gasket scraper
• Sealant

Repair Procedure

1. Identify the source of the leak by cleaning the engine and adding UV dye to the oil
2. For valve cover gasket leaks: Remove valve cover, clean surfaces, replace gasket, and reinstall
3. For oil pan leaks: Drain oil, remove pan, clean surfaces, replace gasket, and reinstall
4. For oil drain plug leaks: Drain oil, replace washer or plug, and refill
5. For oil filter leaks: Replace filter and ensure proper installation
6. Refill with the correct type and amount of oil
7. Check for continued leaks after repair

Symptoms

• Temperature gauge reading high
• Steam from under the hood
• Sweet smell (coolant)
• Engine performance issues
• Warning light on dashboard

Common Causes

• Low coolant level
• Faulty thermostat
• Bad water pump
• Radiator issues
• Cooling fan failure
• Blocked coolant passages

Parts Affected

• Coolant
• Thermostat
• Water pump
• Radiator
• Cooling fan
• Radiator cap
• Hoses

Tools Required

• Pressure tester
• Coolant hydrometer
• Socket set
• Pliers
• Funnel
• Drain pan

Repair Procedure

1. Let the engine cool completely before opening the cooling system
2. Check coolant level and add if low (after addressing any leaks)
3. Inspect for coolant leaks around hoses, radiator, and water pump
4. Test the radiator cap with a pressure tester
5. Check thermostat operation (may require removal for testing)
6. Inspect water pump for leaks and proper operation
7. Check that cooling fans are activating at proper temperature
8. Flush cooling system if contaminated or long overdue
9. Test for exhaust gases in coolant (possible head gasket issue)
10. Check radiator for blockages and clean if needed

Symptoms

• High-pitched squealing when braking
• Grinding noise when braking
• Reduced braking performance
• Vibration when braking

Common Causes

• Worn brake pads
• Worn brake rotors
• Lack of lubrication on caliper slides
• Debris caught in brakes

Parts Affected

• Brake pads
• Brake rotors
• Caliper hardware
• Brake lubricant

Tools Required

• Jack and jack stands
• Lug wrench
• C-clamp or caliper piston tool
• Socket set
• Torque wrench
• Wire brush

Repair Procedure

1. Safely raise and secure the vehicle on jack stands
2. Remove the wheel to access the brake assembly
3. Inspect brake pads for wear (should have at least 3mm of pad material)
4. Check rotors for scoring, cracks, or uneven wear
5. Remove caliper bolts and swing caliper away from rotor
6. Remove and replace brake pads if worn
7. Replace or resurface rotors if damaged or worn
8. Compress caliper piston using C-clamp or piston tool
9. Apply brake lubricant to caliper slides and contact points (not on friction surfaces)
10. Reassemble caliper and install new hardware if included
11. Reinstall wheel and torque lug nuts to specification
12. Pump brake pedal to establish proper pedal feel before driving
13. Break in new brakes according to manufacturer recommendations

Symptoms

• Brake pedal feels soft or spongy when pressed
• Pedal sinks to the floor with minimal resistance
• Increased stopping distance
• Brake warning light may be illuminated

Common Causes

• Air in brake lines
• Brake fluid leak
• Faulty master cylinder
• Worn brake hoses