5: Road Test: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Pickup, 2004 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2004 Ford F450 Super Duty, 2004 Ford Excursion, and 2004 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: It may be necessary to have the customer ride along or drive the vehicle to point out the concern. During the road test, take into consideration the customer's driving habits and the driving conditions. The customer's concern just may be an acceptable operating condition for that vehicle.

The following is a brief overview of each test in the order in which it appears. A review of this information helps to quickly identify the most appropriate process necessary to make a successful diagnosis. After reviewing this information, select and carry out the appropriate test(s), proceeding to the next step of this process.

The Slow Acceleration Test is normally the first test to carry out when identifying an NVH concern, especially when a road test with the customer is not possible.
The Heavy Acceleration Test helps to determine if the concern is torque-related.
The Neutral Coast Down Speed Test helps to determine if the concern is vehicle speed-related.
The Downshift Speed Test helps to determine if the concern is engine speed-related.
The Steering Input Test helps to determine how the wheel bearings and other suspension components contribute to a vehicle speed-related concern.
The Brake Test helps to identify vibrations or noise that are brake related.
The Road Test Over Bumps helps isolate a noise that occurs when driving over a rough or bumpy surface.
The Engine Run-Up Tests consist of the Neutral Run-up Test and the Engine Load Test. These tests help to determine if the concern is engine speed-related.
The Neutral Run-up Test is used as a follow-up test to the Downshift Speed Test when the concern occurs at idle.
The Engine Load Test helps to identify vibration/noise sensitive to engine load or torque. It also helps to reproduce engine speed-related concerns that cannot be duplicated when carrying out the Neutral Run-up Test or the Neutral Coast Down Test.
The Engine Accessory Test helps to locate faulty belts and accessories that cause engine speed-related concerns.
The Vehicle Cold Soak Procedure helps to identify concerns occurring during initial start-up and when an extended time lapse occurs between vehicle usage.