Visual and Physical Underhood Inspection

Perform a careful visual and physical underhood inspection when performing any diagnostic procedure or diagnosing the cause of an emission test failure. This can often lead to repairing a problem without further steps. Use the following guidelines when performing a visual/physical inspection:
^ Inspect all the vacuum hoses for the following conditions:
- Pinches
- Cuts
- Disconnects
^ Inspect all hoses that are difficult to see beneath the following components:
- Air Cleaner (ACL)
- A/C compressor
- Generator
- Other engine accessories
^ Inspect all wires in the engine compartment for the following items:
- Proper connections
- Burned or chafed spots
- Pinched wires
- Contact with sharp edges
- Contact with hot exhaust manifolds

This visual/physical inspection is very important. The visual/physical inspection must be done carefully and thoroughly.