Vehicle Safety & Mechanics Flashcards

How do you check engine oil level correctly?

Answer: Check on a level surface with the engine cold or cooled for at least 5 minutes after stopping

Engine oil must be checked on a level surface with the engine switched off and cooled; checking immediately after use gives a false low reading as oil has not yet returned to the sump.

What does traction control (TC) do when a driven wheel begins to spin?

Answer: It reduces engine power or applies the brake to the spinning wheel to regain traction

Traction control reduces wheelspin by cutting engine power or applying individual brakes to the spinning wheel, restoring traction especially on slippery surfaces.

What is the purpose of the vehicle's spare wheel or tyre repair kit, and what should an ADI advise learners?

Answer: To provide temporary mobility after a puncture — limitations apply and the full-size spare or puncture must be professionally repaired promptly

Space-saver spares have speed and distance restrictions; repair kits are effective only for small punctures; in both cases the tyre should be professionally inspected and replaced as soon as possible.

Brake fade occurs when:

Answer: Repeated or prolonged hard braking causes overheating, reducing braking effectiveness

Brake fade results from heat generated by sustained or repeated heavy braking; it vaporises the brake fluid or glazes the pads, significantly reducing the braking force.

Which dashboard symbol indicates the engine coolant temperature is dangerously high?

Answer: Red thermometer symbol or needle in the red zone

A red temperature warning (thermometer in red) indicates the coolant temperature has reached a dangerous level; continued driving risks serious engine damage and the vehicle should be stopped safely.

Power-assisted steering (PAS) failure is usually first noticed when:

Answer: The steering becomes very heavy and difficult to turn, especially at low speeds

When power steering fails (hydraulic leak or pump failure, or electrical failure on EPS), the steering reverts to manual operation and becomes significantly heavier, most noticeably when manoeuvring at low speeds.