Auto Maintenance & Light Repair Flashcards

A technician is checking a serpentine belt and finds cracks on the ribbed side spaced about every quarter inch. What does this indicate?

Answer: Normal belt wear requiring replacement

Multiple cracks across the ribs indicate aged belt material that should be replaced.

When replacing an engine air filter, in which direction should airflow move relative to the filter media markings?

Answer: From the dirty side toward the clean side as marked

Filters are directional, drawing air from the dirty intake side through to the clean engine side.

A coolant test reveals the mixture freezes at only -10°F instead of the desired -34°F. The best correction is to:

Answer: Adjust the antifreeze-to-water ratio toward 50/50

Raising the antifreeze concentration toward a 50/50 mix lowers the freeze point appropriately.

What is the primary purpose of the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve?

Answer: To route crankcase blow-by gases back into the intake to be burned

The PCV valve recirculates crankcase vapors into the intake, reducing emissions and pressure buildup.

A wiper blade leaves streaks and chatters across the windshield. The first and least expensive corrective action is to:

Answer: Clean the blade and windshield, then replace the rubber element if needed

Cleaning the blade and glass, then replacing the worn element, addresses streaking before costlier repairs.

When checking automatic transmission fluid on a vehicle that requires it, the fluid should typically be checked with the engine:

Answer: Running and at operating temperature in Park or Neutral

Most automatics specify checking fluid warm with the engine running and the selector in Park or Neutral.

A battery's state of charge is being tested. A specific gravity reading of 1.265 in all cells indicates the battery is:

Answer: Fully charged

A specific gravity of about 1.265 indicates a fully charged lead-acid battery.