1.

Battery:
Potential problems:
a) Dead battery
- Cause: Leaving the lights or other electrical components on for an extended period without the
engine running.
- Effect: The vehicle will not start, and you may require a jump-start or battery replacement.
b) Corroded battery terminals
- Cause: Build-up of acid and other contaminants on the battery terminals.
- Effect: Poor electrical connection, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or intermittent
electrical issues.
c) Weak battery
- Cause: Aging battery or excessive use of electrical components.
- Effect: Difficulty starting the vehicle, especially in cold weather, and potential for the battery to
die unexpectedly.

2. Lights:
Potential problems:
a) Burned-out bulb
- Cause: Normal wear and tear or a blown fuse.
- Effect: Reduced visibility for the driver and other road users, potentially leading to accidents or
traffic violations.
b) Misaligned headlights
- Cause: Bumps or impacts, improper installation, or natural misalignment over time.
- Effect: Reduced visibility for the driver, which can be dangerous, especially during nighttime
driving or adverse weather conditions.
c) Faulty wiring
- Cause: Wear and tear, rodent damage, or poor installation.
- Effect: Lights may not function correctly, leading to reduced visibility and potential electrical
issues in the vehicle.

3. Oil:
Potential problems:
a) Low oil level
- Cause: Oil leaks, burning oil, or neglecting regular oil changes.
- Effect: Insufficient lubrication of engine components, leading to increased friction, overheating,
and potential engine damage.
b) Dirty or contaminated oil
- Cause: Failure to change the oil at recommended intervals or using low-quality oil.
- Effect: Reduced lubrication efficiency, increased engine wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and
potential engine damage.
c) Incorrect oil viscosity
- Cause: Using oil with the wrong viscosity grade for the vehicle or environmental conditions.
- Effect: Poor lubrication, increased engine wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine
damage.
4. Water:
Potential problems:
a) Coolant leak
- Cause: Damaged hoses, radiator, water pump, or gasket.
- Effect: Engine overheating, potential engine damage, and increased risk of breakdown.
b) Low coolant level
- Cause: Neglecting regular coolant checks or leaks.
- Effect: Insufficient cooling, engine overheating, potential engine damage, and increased risk of
breakdown.
c) Contaminated coolant
- Cause: Mixing different coolant types or using low-quality coolant.
- Effect: Reduced cooling efficiency, increased risk of corrosion, potential engine damage, and
decreased engine performance.

5. Brakes:
Potential problems:
a) Worn brake pads
- Cause: Normal wear and tear or aggressive driving habits.
- Effect: Reduced braking performance, longer stopping distances, and potential brake failure.
b) Leaking brake fluid
- Cause: Damaged brake lines, calipers, or master cylinder.
- Effect: Reduced braking performance, potential loss of braking power, and increased risk of
accidents.
c) Warped brake rotors
- Cause: Excessive heat buildup, aggressive braking, or poor-quality brake components.
- Effect: Vibration or pulsation when braking, reduced braking efficiency, and potential brake
failure.

6. Air:
Potential problems:
a) Clogged air filter
- Cause: Accumulation of dirt, debris, and contaminants.
- Effect: Reduced engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, potential engine damage, and
increased emissions.
b) Faulty cabin air filter
- Cause: Neglecting regular replacement or poor-quality filter.
- Effect: Reduced air quality inside the vehicle, potential allergic reactions, and increased strain
on the HVAC system.
c) Air conditioning refrigerant leak
- Cause: Damaged A/C system components or aging seals.
- Effect: Reduced cooling efficiency, decreased comfort, potential A/C system failure, and
increased repair costs.
7. Gas:
Potential problems:
a) Low fuel level
- Cause: Neglecting to refuel regularly or relying on the fuel gauge inaccurately.
- Effect: Running out of fuel, potential engine damage due to debris in the fuel tank, and
increased risk of being stranded.
b) Contaminated fuel
- Cause: Using low-quality or contaminated fuel.
- Effect: Reduced engine performance, potential engine damage, increased emissions, and
increased fuel consumption.
c) Incorrect fuel octane rating
- Cause: Using fuel with a lower octane rating than recommended by the manufacturer.
- Effect: Engine knocking or pinging, reduced engine performance, and potential engine
damage.

8. Engine:
Potential problems:
a) Overheating
- Cause: Low coolant level, coolant leak, faulty radiator fan, or malfunctioning thermostat.
- Effect: Engine damage, potential breakdown, and increased repair costs.
b) Misfiring
- Cause: Faulty spark plugs, ignition coil, fuel injectors, or

—---------------------------------------------------------------------

Certainly! Let's break down the basic check-up for each vehicle component, along with potential
problems, causes, and effects:

1. **Battery**:
- **Problem 1**: **Dead battery**
- **Cause**: Aging battery.
- **Effect**: The car won't start.
- **Problem 2**: **Corroded terminals**
- **Cause**: Corrosion on battery terminals.
- **Effect**: Poor electrical connections.
- **Problem 3**: **Weak battery**
- **Cause**: Insufficient charging.
- **Effect**: Difficulty starting the engine ¹.

2. **Lights**:
- **Problem 1**: **Burnt-out bulbs**
 - **Cause**: Regular wear and tear.
- **Effect**: Reduced visibility at night.
- **Problem 2**: **Faulty wiring**
- **Cause**: Electrical issues.
- **Effect**: Safety hazard.
- **Problem 3**: **Dim headlights**
- **Cause**: Incorrect bulb installation.
- **Effect**: Difficulty seeing the road ¹.

3. **Oil**:
- **Problem 1**: **Low oil level**
- **Cause**: Neglecting oil changes.
- **Effect**: Insufficient lubrication.
- **Problem 2**: **Dirty oil**
- **Cause**: Old or contaminated oil.
- **Effect**: Engine damage.
- **Problem 3**: **Oil leak**
- **Cause**: Damaged gaskets or seals.
- **Effect**: Increased friction and heat ¹.

4. **Water (Coolant)**:
- **Problem 1**: **Low coolant level**
- **Cause**: Coolant evaporation.
- **Effect**: Engine overheating.
- **Problem 2**: **Coolant leak**
- **Cause**: Damaged hoses or radiator.
- **Effect**: Risk of engine damage.
- **Problem 3**: **Overheating**
- **Cause**: Faulty thermostat.
- **Effect**: Reduced performance ¹.

5. **Brakes**:
- **Problem 1**: **Spongy brakes**
- **Cause**: Air in the brake lines.
- **Effect**: Reduced braking efficiency.
- **Problem 2**: **Brake fluid leak**
- **Cause**: Damaged brake lines.
- **Effect**: Brake failure.
- **Problem 3**: **Worn brake pads**
- **Cause**: Normal wear and tear.
- **Effect**: Increased stopping distance ¹.

6. **Air Filter**:
- **Problem 1**: **Clogged air filter**
 - **Cause**: Dirty air filter.
- **Effect**: Reduced engine performance.
- **Problem 2**: **Faulty air conditioning**
- **Cause**: Compressor or refrigerant issues.
- **Effect**: Uncomfortable cabin temperature.
- **Problem 3**: **Air leaks**
- **Cause**: Damaged hoses or seals.
- **Effect**: Inefficient air circulation ¹.

7. **Gas (Fuel)**:
- **Problem 1**: **Low fuel level**
- **Cause**: Neglecting to refuel.
- **Effect**: Risk of running out of fuel.
- **Problem 2**: **Contaminated fuel**
- **Cause**: Water or debris in the fuel tank.
- **Effect**: Engine misfire.
- **Problem 3**: **Fuel system clog**
- **Cause**: Clogged fuel filter.
- **Effect**: Reduced fuel efficiency ¹.

8. **Engine**:
- **Problem 1**: **Misfiring engine**
- **Cause**: Faulty spark plugs.
- **Effect**: Reduced power.
- **Problem 2**: **Overheating**
- **Cause**: Coolant issues.
- **Effect**: Potential engine damage.
- **Problem 3**: **Knocking noise**
- **Cause**: Detonation due to low-quality fuel.
- **Effect**: Poor performance ¹.

9. **Tires**:
- **Problem 1**: **Underinflated tires**
- **Cause**: Neglecting tire pressure checks.
- **Effect**: Reduced traction.
- **Problem 2**: **Worn tread**
- **Cause**: Normal wear.
- **Effect**: Risk of blowout.
- **Problem 3**: **Punctured tire**
- **Cause**: Sharp objects on the road.
- **Effect**: Uneven wear ¹.

10. **Driver**:
- **Problem 1**: **Distracted driving**
 - **Cause**: Phone use, eating, etc.
- **Effect**: Increased accident risk

Source: Conversation with Bing, 3/1/2024

(1) Safety First: 25 Things to Check Before Your Next Roadtrip.
https://toyota.com.ph/blog/25-Things-To-Check-Before-Your-Next-Roadtrip.
(2) Vehicle Routine Checks Before And After Driving - AUTOJOSH.
https://autojosh.com/vehicle-routine-checks/.
(3) How to Check a Car Before Driving: 12 Steps (with Pictures) - wikiHow.
https://www.wikihow.com/Check-a-Car-Before-Driving.
(4) 12 Essential Tips for First Time Drivers in the Philippines - Philkotse.
https://philkotse.com/safe-driving/12-essential-tips-for-first-time-drivers-in-the-philippines-2830.

—------------------------------------------------------------
Here's a comprehensive list of common problems, causes, and effects for each part of a vehicle,
along with references for further reading:

1. **Battery:**
- **Problem 1:** Corrosion on battery terminals.
- **Cause:** Exposure to moisture and dirt, leading to chemical reactions.
- **Effect:** Poor electrical connection, difficulty starting the vehicle.
- **Problem 2:** Low electrolyte level.
- **Cause:** Evaporation due to high temperatures or overcharging.
- **Effect:** Reduced battery life, potential damage to internal components.
- **Problem 3:** Dead cell.
- **Cause:** Sulfation, physical damage, or manufacturing defects.
- **Effect:** Inability to hold a charge, frequent need for jump-starts.

2. **Lights:**
- **Problem 1:** Burnt out bulbs.
- **Cause:** Normal wear and tear, electrical issues.
- **Effect:** Reduced visibility, potential safety hazard.
- **Problem 2:** Faulty wiring.
- **Cause:** Wear, corrosion, or improper installation.
- **Effect:** Intermittent or non-functional lights.
- **Problem 3:** Incorrectly aimed headlights.
- **Cause:** Improper installation or adjustment.
- **Effect:** Reduced visibility for the driver and other road users, potential glare.

3. **Oil:**
- **Problem 1:** Low oil level.
- **Cause:** Leakage, consumption, or neglecting regular checks.
- **Effect:** Increased friction, overheating, potential engine damage.
 - **Problem 2:** Dirty or contaminated oil.
- **Cause:** Accumulation of dirt, debris, or combustion byproducts.
- **Effect:** Reduced lubrication efficiency, engine wear.
- **Problem 3:** Wrong oil viscosity.
- **Cause:** Incorrect oil type used or oil breakdown.
- **Effect:** Poor engine performance, increased wear in extreme temperatures.

4. **Water:**
- **Problem 1:** Coolant leakage.
- **Cause:** Damaged hoses, radiator, or water pump.
- **Effect:** Overheating, engine damage.
- **Problem 2:** Low coolant level.
- **Cause:** Evaporation, leaks, or improper maintenance.
- **Effect:** Increased risk of overheating, engine damage.
- **Problem 3:** Contaminated coolant.
- **Cause:** Mixing different types of coolant, internal engine issues.
- **Effect:** Reduced cooling efficiency, potential damage to engine components.

5. **Brakes:**
- **Problem 1:** Worn brake pads.
- **Cause:** Normal use, lack of maintenance.
- **Effect:** Reduced braking performance, increased stopping distance.
- **Problem 2:** Leaking brake fluid.
- **Cause:** Damaged brake lines, calipers, or master cylinder.
- **Effect:** Reduced braking efficiency, potential loss of braking ability.
- **Problem 3:** Warped brake rotors.
- **Cause:** Heat buildup from heavy braking, improper installation.
- **Effect:** Vibrations, noise, reduced braking performance.

6. **Air:**
- **Problem 1:** Clogged air filter.
- **Cause:** Accumulation of dirt, debris, or neglecting regular replacement.
- **Effect:** Reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption.
- **Problem 2:** Air leaks in the intake system.
- **Cause:** Loose or damaged hoses, gaskets, or seals.
- **Effect:** Poor engine performance, potential damage to engine components.
- **Problem 3:** Incorrect air pressure in tires.
- **Cause:** Underinflation or overinflation.
- **Effect:** Reduced fuel efficiency, uneven tire wear, handling issues.

7. **Gas:**
- **Problem 1:** Running out of fuel.
- **Cause:** Neglecting to refuel in time, inaccurate fuel gauge.
- **Effect:** Stalling, inconvenience, potential damage to the fuel system.
 - **Problem 2:** Contaminated fuel.
- **Cause:** Water or dirt in the fuel tank.
- **Effect:** Reduced engine performance, potential damage to fuel system components.
- **Problem 3:** Fuel system leaks.
- **Cause:** Damaged fuel lines, connectors, or fuel tank.
- **Effect:** Fire hazard, reduced fuel efficiency, potential engine damage.

8. **Engine:**
- **Problem 1:** Overheating.
- **Cause:** Coolant leaks, faulty thermostat, blocked radiator.
- **Effect:** Engine damage, reduced performance, potential breakdown.
- **Problem 2:** Misfiring.
- **Cause:** Faulty spark plugs, ignition coil issues, fuel system problems.
- **Effect:** Rough idling, reduced power, potential damage to catalytic converter.
- **Problem 3:** Oil leaks.
- **Cause:** Worn seals or gaskets, damaged oil pan.
- **Effect:** Reduced oil level, potential engine damage, environmental pollution.

9. **Tire:**
- **Problem 1:** Underinflation.
- **Cause:** Temperature changes, leaks, or neglecting regular checks.
- **Effect:** Reduced fuel efficiency, increased tire wear, potential blowouts.
- **Problem 2:** Overinflation.
- **Cause:** Excessive air pressure, improper inflation equipment.
- **Effect:** Reduced traction, uneven tire wear, harsh ride.
- **Problem 3:** Uneven wear.
- **Cause:** Misalignment, unbalanced tires, suspension issues.
- **Effect:** Reduced tire life, poor handling, potential safety hazard.

10. **Driver:**
- **Problem 1:** Fatigue.
- **Cause:** Lack of sleep, long hours of driving.
- **Effect:** Reduced reaction time, impaired judgment, increased risk of accidents.
- **Problem 2:** Distraction.
- **Cause:** Using mobile phones, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving.
- **Effect:** Reduced attention on the road, potential accidents.
- **Problem 3:** Aggressive driving.
- **Cause:** Stress, impatience, or road rage.
- **Effect:** Increased risk of accidents, traffic violations, potential harm to others.

**References:**
- AAA. "Battery Maintenance."
[Link](https://exchange.aaa.com/car-care/repair-maintenance/battery-tips/#.YlKCt2gzbIU)
- NHTSA. "Vehicle Lighting and Mirrors." [Link](https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/lights)
- Castrol. "Engine Oil: What You Need to Know."
[Link](https://www.castrol.com/en_us/united-states/car-engine-oil-and-fluids/engine-oil-and-fluids
/what-you-need-to-know-about-engine-oil.html)
- Be Car Care Aware. "Cooling System."
[Link](https://www.carcare.org/vehicle-care-resources/cooling-system/)
- NHTSA. "Brakes." [Link](https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/brakes)
- NAPA Know How. "Symptoms of a Bad or Failing