1. Roadside Safety Car Care Essentials
Chapter 1 - Introduction and How Cars Wor
Roadside Safety Car Care Essentials
Common Problems
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

2. Chapter 1 - Introduction and How Cars Wor
Fuel for Thought
What are common automotive problems?
What should you do during a roadside emergency?
What can be done to avoid an accident?
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

3. Objectives
Upon completion of this chapter and activities, you will be able to:
Identify common automobile problems.
Analyze basic automotive problems and make a decision about a solution.
Replace a headlight.
Prepare for roadside emergencies.
Jump-start a vehicle safely.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

4. Diagnosing Problems Check Engine Light
The check engine light lets the driver know if the PCM detects an emission system or engine performance problem, triggered by sensors.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

5. Diagnosing Problems Low Fuel Indicator
When the light by the fuel gauge comes on you are almost out of fuel.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

6. Diagnosing Problems Oil Pressure Indicator
Low oil pressure can cause immediate engine damage.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

7. Diagnosing Problems Charging System Indicator
The charging system light indicates that the battery is not being recharged.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

8. Diagnosing Problems Coolant Temperature Indicator
When the coolant temperature exceeds the normal operating range a warning light or gauge will indicate that the engine is overheating.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

9. Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

10. Diagnosing Problems Fluid Leaks
A drip on the garage floor or driveway can give you insight into an occurring problem.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

11. Diagnosing Problems Smoke from Tailpipe
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

12. Diagnosing Problems Unusual Sounds Unusual Smells
Do not ignore sounds coming from your vehicle. If you heed a warning sound you may be able to avoid your vehicle leaving you stranded or needing expensive repairs.
Unusual Smells
If you smell something abnormal, check it out.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

13. Common Problems Light Bulbs No-Start Battery Cables and Terminals
Light bulbs are generally not too expensive and take few or no tools to replace.
No-Start
During one type of no-start situation the engine will not crank. In the other, the engine will crank but will not start.
Battery Cables and Terminals
Battery failure is often caused by poor connections, corrosion, improper maintenance, and age.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

14. Common Problems Wipers Shaking Steering
Over time the rubber on wipers dries out, making them stiff.
Shaking
Tires out of balance, belts broken in tires, worn suspension and steering components, transmission problems, worn CV joints or U-joints, broken motor or transmission mounts, and engine misfires can cause shaking and vibrations while driving.
Steering
If your vehicle is pulling in one direction, you may have a steering system or tire problem.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

15. Common Problems Overheating Leaking Tire
Overheating can be caused by, among other things, a burst radiator hose, a faulty water pump, blown head gasket, or a leaky radiator.
Leaking Tire
Look for any obvious sidewall, tread, or wheel damage.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

16. Roadside Emergencies Accidents Car-Deer Collisions Running Out of Fuel
Being Prepared
Have a roadside emergency kit
Dead Battery
A.K.A.: "I-57 Killer"
Classification: Homicide - Murderer
Characteristics: Juvenile (17) - Rape - Robbery
Number of victims: 3 +
Date of murders: June 3, 1973 / October 19, 1978
Date of birth: January 12, 1956
Victims profile: James Schmidt and his fiancee, Dorothy Cerny, both 25 / Ronald Morgan(inmate)
Method of murder: Shooting / Stabbing with a sharpened soup ladle
Location: Chicago/Menard, Illinois, USA
Status: Sentenced to life in prison on November 1, Sentenced to death on February 24, 1982
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

17. Roadside Emergencies Jump-starting
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

18. Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

19. Roadside Emergencies Lockouts Burst Radiator Hose Broken Belt
Don’t break a window
Burst Radiator Hose
Broken Belt
Flat Tire
Do not use liquid tire sprays (fix a flat) in tires with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Tire Traction in Snow
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

20. Summary
Common problems and roadside emergencies can range from minor mechanical issues to serious accidents.
The key to getting through these often difficult and stressful situations is to be prepared and stay calm.
Analyze the situation and find an appropriate solution.
Chapter 20
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing