Module 09 2004

Driver Responsibilities: Vehicle FunctionsDriver Responsibilities: Vehicle Functions
Topic 1 --Topic 1 -- Vehicle Functions/MalfunctionsVehicle Functions/Malfunctions
Topic 2 --Topic 2 -- Anti-Lock Braking SystemsAnti-Lock Braking Systems
Topic 3 --Topic 3 -- Vehicle PerformanceVehicle Performance
Topic 4 --Topic 4 -- Highway Transportation System AgenciesHighway Transportation System Agencies
Module Nine TransparenciesModule Nine Transparencies
VirginiaVirginia Department of EducationDepartment of Education
Provided in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Motor VehiclesProvided in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles

Dashboard Warning SymbolsDashboard Warning Symbols
T – 9.1
Topic 1 Lesson 1
TemperatureTemperature light or gaugelight or gauge
- warns you when the coolant in the engine is
too hot or too low
- when the temperature warning light comes
on or the gauge reads too hot, pull off the
road and get professional help
Caution: never attempt to remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The
pressure and hot steam can cause severe upper torso and facial burns.
Oil PressureOil Pressure light or gaugelight or gauge
HOT
OIL
symbol
light
gauge
gaugelight
symbol
- warns you when the oil is not circulating at the
proper pressure or there is not enough oil
- when the oil warning light comes on it is
recommended that you stop at the nearest
service center and have the oil level checked

T – 9.1a
Topic 1 Lesson 1
Alternator/GeneratorAlternator/Generator light or gaugeslight or gauges
ALT
light gauge
symbol
- The alternator is not generating enough
electricity to charge the battery.
- The engine must now use electricity
stored in the battery.
- Turn off as many electrical devices as
possible. (i.e., the radio, heater/AC, etc.)
When the “ALT” light comes on or the gauge
shows “discharge” while the engine is running,
the vehicle’s electrical system is in trouble.
Brake SystemBrake System lightlight
Caution: when the battery is drained
the engine may stall without warning.
This warning light serves two purposes:
(1) to indicate the parking brake is set; and
(2) to alert you that part or all of the braking
system is not working properly; or, in some
vehicles, the brake fluid is too low.

T – 9.2
Topic 1 Lesson 1
ABSABS lightlight
Air BagAir Bag lightlight
With an anti-lock brake system, this light comes on
when you start the vehicle and may stay on for several
seconds before turning off. This is a normal function
for this warning system. If the light stays on, or comes
on when you are driving, it is warning you that there is
a problem in the ABS system and should be checked
by a qualified mechanic.
The light should flash for a few seconds and then go out
indicating the system is activated. If the air bag readiness
light stays on or comes on while you are driving, it is
warning you there is a problem. If the air bag system in
your vehicle is not working properly it can be extremely
dangerous. The air bags:
- may NOT inflate in the event of a crash; or
- may inflate while driving without being involved in a crash.

T – 9.2a
Topic 1 Lesson 1
Service Engine SoonService Engine Soon lightlight
Door AjarDoor Ajar
lightlight
Low fuelLow fuel lightlight
symbol
gauge
LOW
FUEL
light
The fuel gauge shows the driver how much fuel is
in the vehicle's fuel tank. When the fuel level is
very low, the low fuel warning light will come on
and stay on until you add more fuel to the tank.
SERVICE
ENGINE
SOON
DOOR
OPEN
This warning light will illuminate when starting the engine
and then go out. If this light remains on, one or more of
the vehicle doors is not completely latched. If it comes on
while driving, someone has opened a door or the door
latch was not properly fastened. In either case, it is
dangerous and you should pull off the road as soon as
possible to secure the door.
The SERVICE ENGINE or CHECK ENGINE light should
flash for a few seconds when you start the engine and then
go out. If the light stays on it indicates there may be a
problem.

Vehicle FailuresVehicle Failures
Tire BlowoutTire Blowout
Accelerator FailureAccelerator Failure
Engine FailureEngine Failure
Steering FailureSteering Failure
Car Catches on FireCar Catches on Fire
T – 9.3
Topic 1 Lesson 2

Vehicle FailuresVehicle Failures ——
T – 9.3a
Topic 1 Lesson 2
Tire BlowoutTire Blowout
A Tire Blowout is a rapid deflation of air from
the tire. This sudden loss of air could occur by:
- hitting a sharp object that punctures the tire;
- having a defective tire; or
- having an under-inflated tire that loses its
seal to the rim while the tires are rotating.
If a front tire blows out, the vehicle will pull sharply
in the direction of the blowout.
If a rear tire blows out, the vehicle will wobble,
shake and pull slightly in the direction of the flat tire.
If a blowout occurs:
 Grip the steering wheel firmly.
 Take your foot off the accelerator.
 DO NOT BRAKE. Braking may cause the vehicle to swerve.
 Allow the vehicle to slow on its own, or brake gently.
 Check traffic around you and turn on emergency flashers.
 Drive to a protected location and pull off the roadway.
 Have the tire replaced.

Vehicle Failures —Vehicle Failures — Accelerator FailureAccelerator Failure
T – 9.3b
Topic 1 Lesson 2
The accelerator will not return to idleThe accelerator will not return to idle when you release it, and thewhen you release it, and the
engine is racingengine is racing..
Shift to Neutral (engine may race but no harm done).
Search for an escape path.
Steer smoothly and brake gently.
Pull off the roadway and park.
Turn off the vehicle. Caution —Caution — DO NOTDO NOT turn the
ignition off while the vehicle is moving--this may
lock the steering wheel.
Have the pedal repaired at a service center before
driving again.
Accelerator failure is caused by either a broken spring or the pedal getting
stuck in the down position. In either case, you no longer have control over
the vehicle’s speed. Follow these steps:Follow these steps:
Accelerator PedalAccelerator Pedal STUCKSTUCK
in down positionin down position

Vehicle Failures —Vehicle Failures — Engine FailureEngine Failure
T – 9.3c
Topic 1 Lesson 2
Shift to Neutral.
Look for an escape path.
Slow down and try to restart.
If unsuccessful, pull off the roadway (apply more pressure on the
pedal).
Stop; Try to restart the engine.
If unsuccessful, raise the hood and turn on your emergency flashers.
Call for assistance.
Engine failure can happen with little warning
and for various reason (engine becomes
flooded, or overheats). Whatever the reason,
when the engine stalls the steering
mechanism will still work but will require
much more effort.
If your engine stalls,If your engine stalls, follow thesefollow these
steps:steps:

Vehicle Failures —Vehicle Failures — Steering FailureSteering Failure
T – 9.3d
Topic 1 Lesson 2
Total Steering FailureTotal Steering Failure
Occurs when the engine stops, if the power steering fluid level is too low in
the pump, and/or if the drive belt slips or breaks.
Communicate to others by using the horn
and emergency flashers.
StopStop as quickly as possible. DO NOT lockDO NOT lock
the brakes as the vehicle could swerve
sharply.
Shift to a lower gear.
Call for assistance.
NOTE: The vehicle can still be steered, but it will require
much more effort on the driver’s part to change direction.
Power Steering FailurePower Steering Failure

Vehicle Failures —Vehicle Failures — Brake FailureBrake Failure
T – 9.3e
Topic 1 Lesson 2
Total Brake FailureTotal Brake Failure —— Pump the brake pedal. This action may build up
enough brake pressure to stop. After three or four pumps you will know if
the brakes are going to hold. If this does not work:If this does not work:
Power Brake FailurePower Brake Failure —— is the loss of power when the booster unit
assisting the brakes no longer functions.
 Apply the brakes--they may function normally for one more application of the
pedal.
 Modulate pressure without releasing the brake.
 You will have to press harder on the brake pedal to stop the vehicle.
.
• downshift to a lower gear. This uses the
braking power of the engine to slow the
vehicle. Look for an escape route.
• activate the hazard lights to warn others.
• apply the parking brake gradually. Hold the
release button. Release the parking brake if
the vehicle begins to skid, and reapply as
needed. Select a safe path of travel while
the vehicle slows down.

Vehicle Failures —Vehicle Failures — FireFire
T – 9.3f
Topic 1 Lesson 2
Car Catches FireCar Catches Fire
• Quickly steer the vehicle out of traffic and
away from buildings and people.
• Get everyone out of the vehicle and have
them move at least 100 feet away.
• If the engine is on fire, call the fire
department and leave the hood closed.
• If the passenger compartment is on fire,
smother it, use a fire extinguisher, or call
the fire department.
NEVER use water on an engine fire — water will NOT put out an oil or
fuel fire; in fact it may even aid in the fire spreading! Use an A-B-C-type
fire extinguisher.

Vehicle SystemsVehicle Systems
T – 9.4
Topic 1 Lesson 3
Steering and SuspensionSteering and Suspension
BrakeBrake ElectricalElectrical
FuelFuel

T – 9.4a
Topic 1 Lesson 3
Steering and Suspension SystemsSteering and Suspension Systems
The Steering SystemThe Steering System —— controls the position of the front wheels and allows the
driver to change vehicle direction.
General Steering Wheel System Operation:General Steering Wheel System Operation:
• Avoid turning the steering wheel when the vehicle is
not moving; this causes wear on the steering system.
• Never force the steering to the limit of travel; you will
hear a screeching sound if you have gone too far. Back
off slightly and the wheels will still be fully turned.
Forcing the system to the limit of travel causes
unnecessary wear and early failure.
• Avoid deep potholes, curbs, and any other sudden
or hard impacts that may cause damage to the
steering components. Have the steering system aligned
at least once a year and after any serious impacts.
• Periodically inspect the power steering pump belt and
check the power steering fluid. (Consult the owner’s
manual for exact locations.)
The basic function of suspension and steering systems is to keep the vehicle stable, while
allowing the wheels to maintain contact with the road and move independently of the car.

T – 9.4b
Topic 1 Lesson 3
The Suspension SystemThe Suspension System
The suspension system is engineered to keep the vehicle's
wheels in firm contact with the road and pointed in the direction
the driver is steering. Plus it helps provide a comfortable ride for
all vehicle occupants. The system includes a series of rods,
bars, springs, and other components. These components:
support the weight of the vehicle;
absorb the shocks caused by road
irregularities; and
provide flexibility while ensuring
vehicle stability.

T – 9.4c
Topic 1 Lesson 3
Tires and Traction ControlTires and Traction Control
Tires perform two basicTires perform two basic
functions.functions.1.1. Absorb shocks caused by road hazards —Absorb shocks caused by road hazards — tirestires
are air-filled cushionsare air-filled cushions designed to reduce the effect
of road hazards and irregularities on the vehicle. Tires
are made to flex and give as they meet the road surface.
2.2. Provide Traction —Provide Traction — tires grip the road.tires grip the road. Traction enables drivers to accelerate,
brake, and steer their vehicles.
Tires are rated on the Uniform Tire Quality Grading System. Ratings are indicated on
the sidewall of the tire.
Treadwear rating — the higher the treadwear rating the greater the mileage.
A tire with a treadwear rating of 150 is expected to last 50 percent longer
than one graded at 100.
Traction — is measured by the ability to stop a car in straight-ahead motion on a wet surface
Tires which are graded A have the best traction performance, B grading is an
above average rating, and CC grading indicates the tire meets government standards.
Temperature — indicates the tire’s ability to withstand heat. Tires which are
graded AA are the most heat-resistant and less likely to suffer a blowout
under the same conditions as tires with grades of B or C.B or C.

Vehicle Systems —Vehicle Systems — Fuel SystemFuel System
T – 9.5
Topic 1 Lesson 4
The purpose of the fuel system is to provide a mixture of fuel and air to
the engine of the vehicle. The air-fuel mixture must be in proportion to
the speed and load placed on the engine.
fuel tank and cap
emission controls
fuel line
fuel pump
fuel filter
carburetor or fuel injectors (fuel injection system)
intake manifold
fuel gauge
Major parts of the system include:Major parts of the system include:

Vehicle Systems —Vehicle Systems — Electrical SystemElectrical System
T – 9.5a
Topic 1 Lesson 4
A vehicle requires an elaborate electrical system of circuits to produce,
store, and distribute all the electricity required for operation.
• Battery — energy is stored in chemical form and
is used to supply the electricity to start the
engine and run auxiliary devices such as
clocks, radios and alarms
• Starter Motor — starts the engine
• Alternator — recharge + power the electrical system
A device called the voltage regulator keeps the power level stabilized, and
the fuse box keeps minor problems from becoming major ones.
• Ignition Coil — increases the 12-
volt current to many thousands of
volts needed to start the engine
• Distributor — distributes electrical surges to the spark plugs
• Spark Plugs — produce spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the
engine combustion chambers

Vehicle Systems —Vehicle Systems — Brake SystemsBrake Systems
T – 9.6
Topic 1 Lesson 4
Brakes are actually energy conversion devices. When you step on the brakes,
they convert the kinetic energykinetic energy (momentum) of your vehicle into thermalthermal
energyenergy (heat). Thousands of pounds of pressure are applied on each of the
four brakes, permitting the driver to slow or stop the rotation of the tires. The
friction of the tires against the road surface will then slow and/or stop the
vehicle.
Vehicles are equipped with two braking systems:Vehicles are equipped with two braking systems:
1) A dual hydraulic brake system —A dual hydraulic brake system — the front two
wheels are controlled by one subsystem and the
rear two wheels by another subsystem.
2)2) Mechanical brake systemMechanical brake system (parking(parking
or emergency brake) —or emergency brake) — a lever
or foot pedal that mechanically
activates the rear brakes only.

Vehicle Systems —Vehicle Systems — Brake SystemsBrake Systems
T – 9.6a
Topic 1 Lesson 4
Components of Brake SystemComponents of Brake System

Vehicle Systems —Vehicle Systems — ABS Brake SystemABS Brake System
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
T – 9.7
Topic 2 Lesson 1
ABS was developed to assist driver braking actions byABS was developed to assist driver braking actions by
preventing tires from sliding and to keep them rotatingpreventing tires from sliding and to keep them rotating
slowly to allow steering.slowly to allow steering.

• When was the ABS technology available?When was the ABS technology available?
• On what vehicles was the first commercialOn what vehicles was the first commercial
application?application?
• When did ABS become available forWhen did ABS become available for
passenger vehicles?passenger vehicles?
• What road vehicles were first required toWhat road vehicles were first required to
install ABS?install ABS?
T – 9.8
Topic 2 Lesson 1
ABS DevelopmentABS Development

 Road SurfaceRoad Surface
 Weather ConditionsWeather Conditions
 Tire Tread and InflationTire Tread and Inflation
 Braking TechniquesBraking Techniques
 SpeedSpeed
 Steering InputsSteering Inputs
T – 9.9
Topic 2 Lesson 1
Critical Tire Traction Depends On:Critical Tire Traction Depends On:

 Enhanced Braking Action
 Reduced Stopping Distance
 Increased Vehicle Stability
 Enhanced Vehicle Steerability
T – 9.10
Topic 2 Lesson 1
ABS AdvantagesABS Advantages
Braking and Steering
BrakingBraking
ONLYONLY
In many emergencyIn many emergency
situations brakingsituations braking
alone may not preventalone may not prevent
a collision.a collision.

• Increase your followingIncrease your following
distance in bad weatherdistance in bad weather
• Practice using ABSPractice using ABS
• Keep your foot firmly on theKeep your foot firmly on the
brake even if it vibratesbrake even if it vibrates
• Check owner’s manual forCheck owner’s manual for
special concernsspecial concerns
T – 9.11
Topic 2 Lesson 1
With ABS…With ABS…
INCREASEINCREASE

• Drive More AggressivelyDrive More Aggressively
• Pump the BrakesPump the Brakes
T – 9.12
Topic 2 Lesson 1
With ABS, Do NotWith ABS, Do Not
• Steer Too MuchSteer Too Much
• Be Alarmed by ABS Noise or VibrationBe Alarmed by ABS Noise or Vibration

Vehicle PerformanceVehicle Performance
T – 9.13
Topic 3 Lesson 1
TrucksTrucks
TrainsTrains
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV)Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV)
Recreational Vehicles (RV)
MotorcyclesMotorcycles
CarsCars

Vehicle PerformanceVehicle Performance
• Bicycles, Mopeds, Scooters
• Construction Vehicles
• Oversize Vehicles
• Farm Machinery
• Horse-drawn Vehicles
T – 9.14
Topic 3 Lesson 1

Bicyclist ResponsibilitiesBicyclist Responsibilities
Cyclist ResponsibilitiesCyclist Responsibilities
Ride on the right side of the laneRide on the right side of the lane
Signal slowing, stopping or turningSignal slowing, stopping or turning
Obey all traffic lawsObey all traffic laws
Yield to pedestriansYield to pedestrians
Wear HelmetWear Helmet
Use light at nightUse light at night
T – 9.15
Topic 3 Lesson 1

 All Right-of-Way Rules ApplyAll Right-of-Way Rules Apply
 Merge with Bicycle Traffic Flow Turning RightMerge with Bicycle Traffic Flow Turning Right
 Beware of Oncoming Cyclist Turning atBeware of Oncoming Cyclist Turning at
IntersectionsIntersections
 Use Extra Precaution When Interacting withUse Extra Precaution When Interacting with
Young CyclistsYoung Cyclists
Sharing Roadway with BicyclistsSharing Roadway with Bicyclists
T – 9.16
Topic 3 Lesson 1

Bicycle Safety IssuesBicycle Safety Issues
T – 9.17
Topic 3 Lesson 1
 Traffic LawsTraffic Laws
 Safety EquipmentSafety Equipment
 Wet Weather Riding DangersWet Weather Riding Dangers
 Common Motorist ErrorsCommon Motorist Errors
 Basic Bicycle MaintenanceBasic Bicycle Maintenance
 How to Maneuver on UnevenHow to Maneuver on Uneven
SurfacesSurfaces
 Evasive Riding TechniquesEvasive Riding Techniques
Know or Use:

Sharing Roadway with TrucksSharing Roadway with Trucks
 No Zone
 Passing
 Following
 Wide Turns
 Backing
 Maneuverability
T – 9.18
Topic 3 Lesson 1

Sharing Roadway with MotorcyclistsSharing Roadway with Motorcyclists
T – 9.19
Topic 3 Lesson 1
 Left Turns
 Vehicle Blind Spot
 Motorcyclists Riding in Groups
 Hazardous Road Conditions
 Adverse Weather Conditions
 Strong Winds
 Around Large Vehicles
Motorcycle-related conflicts are most likely to occur
in the following situations:

Sharing Roadway with MotorcyclistsSharing Roadway with Motorcyclists
T – 9.19a
Topic 3 Lesson 1
When driving near a motorcyclist:When driving near a motorcyclist:
Motorcycle AwarenessMotorcycle Awareness
Unlike four-wheel vehicles, motorcycles are small
two-wheeled vehicles that accelerate quickly and
are often not seen by drivers of larger vehicles.
• check the rear-view mirror often, and
• avoid making sudden stops.
• increase your following distance, and
• be aware of all the zones around the vehicle.
When being followed by aWhen being followed by a
motorcyclemotorcycle:

Contributors to Transportation SafetyContributors to Transportation Safety
Virginia General AssemblyVirginia General Assembly
House & Senate MembersHouse & Senate Members
• Virginia Department of Motor VehiclesVirginia Department of Motor Vehicles
• Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control BoardVirginia Alcohol Beverage Control Board
• Virginia State PoliceVirginia State Police
• Local Law Enforcement AgenciesLocal Law Enforcement Agencies
• Game and Inland FisheriesGame and Inland Fisheries
T – 9.20
Topic 4 Lesson 1
Virginia
VirginiaLaws
Laws
Governor’s OfficeGovernor’s Office
• Secretary of TransportationSecretary of Transportation
• Secretary of SafetySecretary of Safety
• Secretary of EducationSecretary of Education
Enforcement AgenciesEnforcement Agencies

Virginia Court SystemVirginia Court System
• State Supreme Court of VirginiaState Supreme Court of Virginia
• Court of Appeals of VirginiaCourt of Appeals of Virginia
• Circuit CourtsCircuit Courts
• General District CourtsGeneral District Courts
• Juvenile + Domestic Relations CourtsJuvenile + Domestic Relations Courts
Contributors to Transportation SafetyContributors to Transportation Safety
Topic 4 Lesson 1
T – 9.21
Traffic Engineering and MaintenanceTraffic Engineering and Maintenance
• Virginia Department of TransportationVirginia Department of Transportation
• Local Roadway MaintenanceLocal Roadway Maintenance
EducationEducation
• Department of EducationDepartment of Education
• Public, Private, & Commercial SchoolsPublic, Private, & Commercial Schools

Module 09 2004

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Module 09 2004