3: Preparing for the Road Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Observe the following when preparing for the road test:
- Review the information recorded on the write-up job aid. It is important to know the specific symptom the customer has with the vehicle.
- Do not be misled by the reported location of the noise/vibration. The cause can actually be some distance away.
- Conduct the road test on a quiet street where it is safe to duplicate the vibration/noise. The ideal testing route is an open, low-traffic area where it is possible to operate the vehicle at the speed in which the condition occurs.
- While observing that they are not related to the symptom, eliminate the following:
- The engine speed is an important factor in arriving at a final conclusion. Therefore, connect a diagnostic tool, Vertronix, or an accurate tachometer to the engine, even if the vehicle has a tachometer. This will make sure of an exact engine speed reading.