| Vehicle Inspection: Under the Hood and On the Lift |
From "Car Care & Repair"
episode CCR-103 |
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If you're not mechanically inclined, it might be best to enlist the help of a certified mechanic for the engine and on-the-lift inspections. Independent mechanics typically offer a thorough used-car inspection for a modest fee. Under the Hood
- Remove the spark plugs and check their condition. The condition of the spark-plug electrodes speaks volumes about the condition of the engine and how well it's operating. Vehicle service manuals usually feature a chart showing varying conditions of spark plugs and the corresponding causes for each. Sooty, black plugs, for example, may indicate an overly rich fuel/air ratio, a malfunctioning choke or a dirty air filter. Oily deposits may be a sign of worn pistons or valves.
- Check the spark-plug wires (figure A) for cracking or fraying. The wire covers should be pliable and free of cracks or fraying.
- If the vehicle has high mileage, it's a good idea to have a mechanic give it a compression check on all engine cylinders. This will give an idea as to the condition of the rings and valve guides.
- Check all hoses (figure B) and belts. Look at the condition of the rubber, checking for cracks or splits. Check to be certain hose clamps are not loose or damaged; look for signs of prior coolant leaks.
- Inspect the radiator and cooling system for leaks, damage or rust. On a cold vehicle, check the antifreeze. Check the capacity in the radiator itself as well as the reservoir. Use a hydrometer to check the condition of the antifreeze (figure C) and make certain that the fluid has bright-green color -- not brown or rust.
- Check the battery posts (figure D) for buildup of corrosion. Check the battery cables and terminals.
- Check the levels and conditions of all fluids -- engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant and windshield washer. Engine fluids should appear fresh and translucent and free of dirt or sediments.
- Look for signs of oil leaks on top of the engine such as around the valve-cover gasket (figure E). Look for residue of oil that's been sprayed against the wall of the engine compartment or the bottom surface of the hood -- a sign of a serious oil leak.
On the Lift Raising the vehicle onto a lift for a thorough underneath inspection is important for assessing the amount of rust to the frame and undercarriage. It's also necessary for identifying evidence of prior damage or accidents. The latter is especially critical when it comes to sport-utility and off-road vehicles. - Look for signs of oil leaking from underneath the engine such as around the oil pan.
- Check the suspension and steering components, including CV joints, boots (figure F), bushings, steering rack-and-pinion, shocks, springs, etc.
- Check the exhaust system -- muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust pipes -- for holes, rust or deterioration (figure G).
RESOURCES :
Buying a Car for Dummies
ISBN: 0764550918
Author: Deanna Sclar
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Hungry Minds, Inc.
Buying a Car Online for Dummies
ISBN: 0764506978
Author: Pierre Bourque and Richard Mansfield
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Hungry Minds, Inc.
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