Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Initial Inspection

Perform thorough underhood inspection. Problems can frequently be resolved at this stage without further testing. Visually inspect the following:

- Vacuum hoses for proper routing, tight connections, splits, kinks, obvious tampering.

- Vacuum fittings for improperly capped or plugged ports. Be sure to check hidden areas around the throttle body and other components..

NOTE: Some manufacturers use an orifice-insert within a vacuum line as a delay device. Do not mistake such a device for tampering and remove it.

- Electronic Engine Control system wiring harness for proper connections, bent or broken pins, corrosion, loose wires, and proper routing.

- Ignition wires for proper routing, cracking, hardness, and tight connections at distributor, coil, and spark plugs.

- Electrical wiring and harness connections for tight fit, abrasions, breaks, etc. Ground connections must be clean and tight.

- Verify that components are properly installed and have not been modified or damaged. Ensure that any replaced components are correct for the application.

- Check for air or vacuum leaks around intake and exhaust manifolds, throttle body, air flow meter, and air induction hoses.

- Catalytic converter(s), muffler, exhaust pipes, brackets, and hangers for modification or damage.

- Engine coolant for proper level and mixture.

- Transmission fluid level and quality.

- Engine oil for proper level and quality.