Lesson 1Battery and charging system: battery health tests, alternator charging checks and starter inspectionFocuses on testing battery health, checking alternator output, and basic starter inspection. Explains voltage measurements, load testing, parasitic drain basics, and how charging issues affect starting and drivability in local 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 powerDetails spark plug types, heat ranges, and service life, plus coils and leads. Covers symptoms of worn plugs, misfire diagnosis, effects on cold start, fuel economy, power, and correct gapping and torque practices in Zambia.
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 preventionCovers coolant types, mixture ratios, and condition checks, plus hoses, radiator, water pump, and thermostat basics. Explains overheating prevention, pressure cap function, and safe service practices for Zambian climates.
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 preventionExplains brake fluid condition checks, pad and rotor inspection, and common replacement triggers. Emphasises safety, fade resistance, noise prevention, and basic measurement tools and service guidelines in Zambia.
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 performanceExplains how engine air filters and cabin filters affect breathing, fuel trims, HVAC performance, and component life. Covers inspection, replacement intervals, filter types, and diagnosing restrictions or contamination locally.
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 inspectionIntroduces basic checks for manual transmissions and clutches. Covers fluid level and condition, leaks, clutch pedal free play, engagement feel, and simple road test observations for early fault detection in Zambia.
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 applicableCovers inspection of serpentine and accessory belts, plus timing belt guidance where fitted. Explains wear patterns, noise diagnosis, tension checks, replacement intervals, and the risks of belt failure for engine operation.
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 pressuresHighlights often overlooked service items such as fuel filters, PCV valves, wiper blades, and tyres. Explains their impact on drivability, emissions, visibility, tyre wear, and overall safety and comfort in Zambian conditions.
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/performanceExplains engine oil roles, viscosity grades, and service intervals. Covers oil filter function, selection, and replacement steps, plus how oil condition affects wear, starting, fuel economy, and turbocharger life in local use.
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
