| Topic | Summary |
| Locating vehicle information |
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a 17-character identification composed of letters and digits. This number is unique throughout the world. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to understand the principles of vehicle identification numbers and correctly identify the components that make up a vehicle identification number. |
| Decoding a VIN |
Every vehicle carries a unique Vehicle Identification Number, which encodes essential information about it, such as what kind of vehicle it is, who manufactured it, where, and when. |
| Obtaining & interpreting scan tool data |
The objective of this procedure is to show you how to retrieve, record and clear stored OBD I & II diagnostic trouble codes using a scan tool. Remember, when retrieving codes for an OBD I vehicle, clear the codes then start the vehicle and recheck for any codes that reset. When diagnosing and OBD II vehicle, do not clear the codes until the vehicle is repaired. |
| Using a repair manual |
Repair manuals are produced by a second party publisher and provide information similar to a shop manual. However, the information contained in the repair manual will not be as specific as that contained in a shop manual. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to locate specifications and the correct procedure in a repair manual. |
| Using a shop manual |
The information found in shop manuals provides a systematic procedure, identifies special tools and specifications relevant to the task. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to use a shop manual to identify the correct service procedure. |
| Using an owner's manual |
The vehicle manufacturer supplies owner's manuals to the vehicle's first or original owners. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to use an owner's manual to make sure that the correct lubricant specifications are used when servicing the vehicle. |
| Using a labor guide |
The labor guide measures time as an average between the time taken by a novice and the time taken by an experienced technician who has performed the task many times. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to understand and use a labor guide to calculate time and cost for a service procedure. |
| Using a parts program |
There is a range of computer-based parts programs on the market, the layout may vary, but they will contain similar information. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to use a computer or CD-ROM to locate parts information. |
| Using a service information program | Computer databases provide information on procedures, parts and service problems. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to learn the basics of a workshop computer system. |
