Vehicle Inspection and Documentation Flashcards

What is the main purpose of connecting an OBD-II scanner during an inspection?

Answer: To retrieve stored and pending diagnostic trouble codes and readiness monitor status

OBD-II scans show trouble codes and monitor readiness, including whether codes were recently cleared.

Several OBD-II readiness monitors show 'not ready' on a vehicle that is supposedly driven daily. What might this suggest?

Answer: Trouble codes or the battery were recently cleared or disconnected

Incomplete monitors often mean codes were recently cleared, which could hide existing faults.

An illuminated SRS/airbag warning light that stays on after startup should be documented because it may indicate what?

Answer: A deployed, missing, or faulty airbag system component

A persistent SRS light can signal a prior deployment or an improper repair, which affects safety and value.

Which inspection finding is most indicative of structural (unibody) damage?

Answer: Kinks, welds, or clamp marks on frame rails or aprons

Kinks, non-factory welds, and frame-machine clamp marks show structural repair after a collision.

Mileage that is high compared to visible wear is not a concern, but which wear pattern suggests possible odometer rollback?

Answer: A worn brake pedal and driver's seat on a vehicle showing very low mileage

Heavy wear on high-contact items that conflicts with a low reading is a classic sign of odometer tampering.

Why are date codes on glass, seat belts, and tires useful during an inspection?

Answer: Non-matching dates can reveal replaced components after damage

Components with dates later than the build date point to replacement, often from a collision.

Where is the vehicle's Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) certification label typically located?

Answer: On the driver's door or B-pillar

The FMVSS certification label with build date and GVWR is normally on the driver's door jamb or B-pillar.