Vehicle Operations & Maintenance Flashcards
7 cards from real CDT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Vehicle Operations & Maintenance flashcards as text
When should a commercial driver perform a post-trip inspection?
Answer: At the end of every driving shift before releasing the vehicle
Federal regulations require a post-trip inspection report at the end of each driving shift to document any defects found.
What is the primary purpose of the vehicle's differential?
Answer: To allow drive wheels to rotate at different speeds during turns
The differential allows the outer and inner drive wheels to rotate at different speeds when the vehicle turns, preventing tire scrub.
What does a red triangle warning light on the dashboard typically indicate?
Answer: A hazard warning system activation or critical fault
A red triangle or warning indicator typically signals a critical system fault requiring immediate attention before continuing operation.
Which of the following best describes 'jake braking' (engine brake)?
Answer: Compressing air in cylinders to create engine retardation
Jake braking uses the engine's compression to retard vehicle speed, reducing wear on service brakes especially on downgrades.
A driver notices the steering wheel vibrates at highway speeds but not at lower speeds. The MOST likely cause is:
Answer: Wheel imbalance or tire defect
Steering wheel vibration at highway speeds is classically caused by wheel imbalance or a defective tire creating oscillation at higher RPMs.
What is the correct action when the low air pressure warning activates in an air brake system?
Answer: Immediately bring the vehicle to a safe stop
When the low air pressure warning activates (typically below 60 psi), drivers must stop safely immediately because spring brakes will automatically apply at about 20-45 psi.
Which maintenance item should be checked MOST frequently on a commercial vehicle operating in hot weather?
Answer: Coolant level and cooling system function
High ambient temperatures increase engine heat load, making coolant level and cooling system efficiency the most critical check to prevent overheating.