Chapter 10. Engines, Vehicles and Maintenance

Four-stroke petrol engine cycle: intake, compression, power (combustion) and exhaust. Diesel engines ignite fuel by compressing air to a high temperature. Electric and hybrid vehicles use motors and batteries and require specific high-voltage safety training [17].

Main vehicle systems: engine, fuel, cooling, lubrication, ignition (petrol engines), exhaust, transmission and drive line, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical and electronic control.

Maintenance types

Preventive: scheduled servicing to avoid failure (oil and filter changes, inspections).

Corrective: repair after failure.

Predictive: monitoring condition (vibration, temperature, oil analysis) to predict failure.

Basic checks: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, tyre pressure and condition, lights, battery, belts and hoses.

Diagnosis. Follow a logical sequence: gather the complaint, inspect, test, identify the cause, repair, and confirm the fault is fixed. Use service manuals and diagnostic tools.

Safety in workshops. Support raised vehicles on stands, never on jacks alone; disconnect batteries when working on electrical systems; avoid fire hazards with fuel; handle used oil, coolant and batteries according to environmental rules [17].

Review: Name the four strokes of the four-stroke cycle. (Answer: intake, compression, power, exhaust.)