Vehicle Maintenance, Servicing and Inspection
Domain focus
Vehicle Maintenance, Servicing and Inspection tests scheduled checks, fluid service, tyre and brake inspection, diagnostic scanning, road testing, and record keeping. Expect job-card sequencing and interpretation of wear patterns.
Core rules
- Follow the manufacturer's interval and torque specification; record mileage, parts, and observations. Use a checklist and sign off each item.
- Daily or pre-start checks include tyres, lights, fluids, leaks, belts, and warning lamps. Periodic service adds filters, plugs or injector checks, brake inspection, and alignment.
- Check oil level with the engine off and the vehicle level; do not overfill. Check coolant only when cool.
- Tyre wear patterns guide diagnosis: both edges worn suggests underinflation; centre worn suggests overinflation; one edge or feathered wear suggests alignment or suspension faults.
Worked example
A tyre shows smooth wear on both outer edges. The likely cause is underinflation, because the centre of the tread bulges and the shoulders carry load. The reasoning links pressure to contact patch. Correct pressure, inspect for leaks, and check alignment before concluding the tyre is defective.
Traps
Checking oil immediately after shutdown, skipping torque checks, clearing fault codes without diagnosis, and road-testing before the brake pedal is firm are common errors.