Lesson 1Battery and charging system: battery health tests, alternator charging checks and starter inspectionTest battery condition, alternator performance, and starter basics. Cover voltage readings, load tests, parasitic drain, and how charging problems influence starting and overall drivability in vehicles.
Open circuit voltage and state of chargeBattery load and conductance testingAlternator output and ripple checksDrive belt influence on charging systemStarter current draw and voltage dropParasitic drain basics and simple testsLesson 2Spark plugs and ignition components: lifespan, symptoms of worn plugs, effect on cold start and powerExplore spark plug varieties, heat ranges, service life, plus coils and wires. Discuss worn plug signs, misfire detection, impacts on cold starts, fuel efficiency, power, and proper gapping and torquing.
Spark plug types, materials, and heat rangeRecommended plug service intervalsReading plug deposits and colour patternsIgnition coil and wire basic checksCold start, misfire, and power complaintsCorrect plug gapping and torque methodLesson 3Coolant and cooling system checks: coolant condition, hoses, thermostat function and overheating preventionReview coolant types, mixtures, condition assessments, plus hoses, radiator, water pump, and thermostat. Address overheating avoidance, pressure cap roles, and safe maintenance practices for cooling systems.
Coolant types, colours, and compatibilityChecking coolant level and freeze protectionRadiator, hoses, and clamp inspectionsThermostat function and failure symptomsWater pump leaks and noise indicatorsPressure cap testing and safety rulesLesson 4Brake fluid, pads, rotors inspection and replacement triggers for safety and noise preventionAssess brake fluid condition, inspect pads and rotors, and identify replacement needs. Focus on safety, fade resistance, noise reduction, using basic tools and guidelines for effective brake servicing.
Brake fluid types and moisture testingVisual pad wear and thickness checksRotor thickness, runout, and scoringBrake noise, pulsation, and pull causesBasic brake service safety proceduresWhen to recommend full brake overhaulLesson 5Air filter and cabin filter: effect on breathing, fuel trims, HVAC performanceUnderstand how engine and cabin air filters influence engine breathing, fuel trims, HVAC efficiency, and part longevity. Include inspection, replacement schedules, types, and diagnosing blockages or dirt buildup.
Engine air filter types and ratingsAir filter inspection and replacement stepsEffects of clogged filters on fuel trimsCabin filter role in HVAC and air qualityCabin filter access points and toolsOdour, dust, and allergy related complaintsLesson 6Transmission and clutch basic checks (manual): fluid level/condition, clutch pedal free play and basic inspectionPerform basic manual transmission and clutch inspections. Check fluid levels and state, leaks, pedal free play, engagement, and simple road tests to spot early faults in these systems.
Manual transmission fluid type and levelFluid condition, contamination, and leaksClutch pedal free play and height checksEngagement point and slip evaluationNoise diagnosis: release and pilot bearingsRoad test checks for shift qualityLesson 7Belts and hoses condition: serpentine/accessory belt inspection, timing belt guidance where applicableInspect serpentine and accessory belts, with timing belt advice if equipped. Cover wear signs, noise identification, tension verification, replacement times, and belt failure risks to engine function.
Serpentine belt wear patterns and glazingAccessory belt tension and alignment checksTiming belt interval and interference enginesBelt noise diagnosis: squeal, chirp, rumbleCoolant and heater hose visual inspectionsHose clamp types and correct tighteningLesson 8Basic service items often overlooked: fuel filter, PCV valve, wiper blades, tyre condition and pressuresAddress commonly missed items like fuel filters, PCV valves, wiper blades, and tyres. Explain their effects on drivability, emissions, visibility, wear, and overall safety and comfort in vehicles.
Fuel filter role and restriction symptomsPCV valve function and clogging effectsWiper blade wear and streak diagnosisWasher system checks and fluid choiceTyre tread depth and wear pattern reviewTyre pressure, load, and TPMS basicsLesson 9Engine oil and oil filter: replacement intervals, oil grades, why it affects wear and starting/performanceDiscuss engine oil functions, viscosity grades, and service intervals. Cover oil filter roles, choices, replacement steps, and how oil quality influences wear, starting, fuel economy, and turbo life.
Oil viscosity grades and temperature effectsManufacturer oil and interval specificationsChecking oil level and contamination signsOil filter types and bypass valve functionSafe oil and filter change proceduresOil choice impact on wear and starting
