Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

General Safety Guidelines

DANGER! Engines produce carbon monoxide that is odorless, causes slower reaction time, and can lead to serious injury. When the engine is operating, keep service areas WELL VENTILATED or attach the vehicle exhaust system to the shop exhaust removal system.

Set the parking brake and block the wheels before testing or repairing the vehicle. it is especially important to block the wheels on front-wheel drive vehicles; the parking brake does not hold the drive wheels.

When servicing a vehicle, always wear eye protection and remove any metal jewelry such as watchbands or bracelets that might make inadvertent electrical contact.

When diagnosing a powertrain problem, it is important to follow approved procedures where applicable. Following these procedures is very important to the safety of individuals performing diagnostic tests.