Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Customer Safety Information


1. Ignition systems can present a shock hazard, do not touch ignition system parts (spark plug wires, spark plugs etc...) with the engine running.
2. Keep all sparks, lighted matches, and open flames away from the top of the battery. If hydrogen gas escaping from the cap vents is ignited, it will ignite gas trapped in the cells and cause the battery to explode.
3. The catalytic converter routinely reaches operating temperatures of 650 °C (1200 °F). Do not park the vehicle over any object or material that could ignite (I.e. dry leaves, cardboard, puddles of oil, or other combustibles). The catalytic converter will also stay hot for some time after the engine has been shut off.
4. Parts of the exhaust gases (carbon monoxide) are toxic. Do not run the engine in confined areas or breathe concentrated exhaust gases. Breathing exhaust gases may cause loss of consciousness or even death.
5. Repair any leaks in the exhaust system as soon as possible. Hot gases escaping from the leak can ignite flammable materials and may set the vehicle on fire. Also, exhaust may circulate through the passenger compartment causing symptoms such as throat, sinus, eye irritation, light headedness, headaches, and increased irritability, to the driver and passengers, especially while driving with windows closed.
6. Be alert for fuel odors and excessive tailpipe emission (black smoke etc...), these are problem indicators.