Vehicle Operation and Maintenance Flashcards

In Alaska, how often should you check your tire pressure during winter months?

Answer: At least once a month, since cold air lowers tire pressure

Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop about 1 PSI for every 10°F decrease, so monthly checks are essential in Alaska.

What should you do if your accelerator pedal sticks while driving?

Answer: Shift to neutral and apply the brakes

Shifting to neutral removes engine power to the wheels while keeping steering and braking control.

Which fluid should be rated for extreme cold before winter driving in Alaska?

Answer: Windshield washer fluid

Standard washer fluid can freeze on the windshield in Alaska's cold, so a low-temperature-rated formula is needed.

When starting a vehicle in extremely cold Alaska weather, an engine block heater is used to:

Answer: Warm the engine coolant and oil so the engine starts more easily

Block heaters keep engine fluids warm, reducing wear and making cold starts reliable in subzero temperatures.

If your brakes suddenly fail, what is the FIRST thing you should do?

Answer: Pump the brake pedal rapidly to build pressure

Pumping the pedal can rebuild hydraulic pressure in many braking systems before you resort to downshifting or the parking brake.

Worn or bald tires are especially dangerous on Alaska roads because they:

Answer: Reduce traction on ice, snow, and wet pavement and increase hydroplaning risk

Tread depth is what channels away water and grips snow, so worn tires drastically reduce control in Alaska conditions.

What does a check engine light that is FLASHING typically indicate?

Answer: A serious problem such as an engine misfire that needs immediate attention

A flashing check engine light signals an active problem, often a misfire, that can damage the catalytic converter if you keep driving.