Comfort & Controls
Why is it important to be comfortable before driving and name four devices that help make a driver comfortable in a vehicle.
Discomfort can be a distraction. Seat‑position controls, adjustable steering wheel, air conditioner/heater (climate controls), air vents (or power seats, seat heaters, lumbar support).
ist at least five aids to visibility mentioned in Chapter 4.
Headlights, taillights/side‑marker lights, mirrors (rearview & sideview), windshield wipers/washer, sun visors, defroster, fog lights.
Name three dashboard instruments or gauges that provide information about your vehicle.
Speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge (also temperature, oil‑pressure, alternator/charge).
Before entering your vehicle, list three external checks you should make in the surrounding area.
Look for children/people, animals, objects or hazards, and fluid leaks under the vehicle.
Explain the function of the accelerator pedal and which foot you should use to operate it.
Explain the difference between headlights on low beam and fog lights and when each should be used.
Low beams for normal night driving; fog lights project low to ground for fog/snow—use fog lights in fog/snow, low beams otherwise.
What does a flashing warning light generally indicate, and what immediate action should you take?
Flashing warning light signals a problem needing prompt attention — get to a mechanic as soon as possible and avoid driving further than necessary.
What are two checks you should make to your wheels/tires before driving?
Check tire inflation/pressure, tread wear or visible damage, and note wheel direction.
Describe how to adjust a manual (non‑power) driver's seat and where the adjustment lever is usually located.
Pull lever (lower left or front of driver's seat) and push/pull seat forward/back; tilt may adjust.
What is a blind spot? Describe two mirror‑adjustment tips that help minimize blind spots.
Blind spot = area not visible in mirrors; adjust rearview for rear window view, set side mirrors so you can barely see side of car (head against window for driver side).
List five devices that let you communicate intentions to other roadway users and give the primary use of each.
Taillights (be seen), directional (turn) signals (indicate turns/lanes), emergency flashers (warn stopped/slow vehicle), parking lights (parked visibility), horn (audible alert).
Describe five checks or adjustments you should make immediately after getting into the vehicle.
Lock doors, adjust seat/head restraint/mirrors, clear/defog windows, stow loose objects, locate horn/headlight controls, fasten safety belts and ensure passengers buckle up.
What safety distance should you maintain between your chest and the steering wheel if your car has a steering‑wheel air bag? Explain why.
At least 10 inches from steering wheel to chest—reduces risk of air bag injury.
Name four passive safety features designed to protect occupants in a crash and briefly state how each reduces injury.
Safety belts, head restraints, air bags, door locks (also tempered glass, energy‑absorbing steering columns, padding).
Explain the sequence of actions when using cruise control safely on a highway and why cruise control should not be used in poor traction conditions.
Accelerate to desired speed, engage cruise control, set it; remain alert, disengage by braking or turning off; do not use on wet/snowy/icy/gravel/curvy/steep terrain due to poor traction and need for frequent speed changes.
Explain how to set and release a parking brake when it is a hand lever and when it is a foot pedal.
Hand lever: pull up to set (feel it lock); press button and push down to release. Foot pedal: press down to set (or press to release depending on design) — follow vehicle design (many foot pedals set by pressing down and release by pressing again or pulling a release).
Compare power brakes and nonpower brakes: how do they differ in operation and what misconception about stopping distance should drivers avoid?
Power brakes reduce pedal force needed but do not shorten stopping distance; stopping distance depends on speed, road, brakes, tires, and reaction time.
Explain how smart air bags work and why they were introduced (what do they adjust for)?
Smart airbags vary deployment based on occupant size/weight/position to reduce injury risk for small occupants.
Describe three dashboard warning lights (symbols) and what each one specifically alerts you to (include oil, alternator/charge, and brake).
Oil light = low oil pressure; alternator/charge light = charging system problem; brake light = brake problem or parking brake engaged.
You arrive at a car you have never driven before. Describe a full pre‑drive routine (outside checks, under‑hood quick checks, entering vehicle steps, and initial in‑car adjustments) you would perform to ensure safety before putting the vehicle into Drive.
Exterior: walk around car, check surroundings, tires, lights, visible leaks, doors/hood/trunk secure. Under hood: fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer, brake, transmission), battery connections. Enter: load from curbside, close/lock doors, adjust seat/mirrors/head restraints, buckle seat belt, locate controls. Start: ensure gear in Park/Neutral, parking brake set, check gauges/warning lights, then shift into Drive when safe.