5: Road Test: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2019 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2019 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty. 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. 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 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.
To identify if the noise is coming from the electric motor and /or gearbox (such as for a whine issue), it can be helpful sometimes to shift into neutral while driving while the condition is present.
The Vehicle Cold Soak Procedure helps to identify concerns occurring during initial start-up and when an extended time lapse occurs between vehicle usage.