Modern Automotive Technology 11e, Online Textbook
Modern Automotive Technology is a comprehensive solution that will take your students from class to career. Correlated to all three levels of the latest ASE Education Foundation Task Lists (MLR, AST, and MAST), the text details the construction, operation, diagnosis, service, and repair of late-model automobiles and light trucks. Updated by new author Brian Lacroix, this edition features new pedagogy and hundreds of new photos, reflecting the latest advancements in automotive system technology and service. New chapters cover Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS); Automotive Oils, Coolants, Lubricants, and Chemicals; Vehicle Cleaning; Detailing; Controller Area Network (CAN) Systems; and EPA 609 Certification.
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Table of Contents
Abbreviated Contents
Modern Automotive Technology 11e, Online Textbook
- Modern Automotive Technology
- Copyright © 2026 by The Goodheart-Willcox Company, Inc.
- Preface
- About the Authors
- Reviewers
- Acknowledgments
- New to This Edition
- ASE Connections
- Guided Tour
- Tools for Student and Instructor Success
- Brief Contents
- Contents
- Section 1 Introduction to Automotive Technology and Foundational Workplace Skills
- Chapter 1 The Automobile
- Chapter 1 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 1 Technical Terms
- Chapter 1 Introduction
- 1.1 Vehicle Parts, Assemblies, and Systems
- 1.2 Vehicle Construction
- 1.3 Engine
- 1.4 Computer System
- 1.5 Electrical System
- 1.6 Drive Train Systems
- 1.7 Suspension, Steering, and Brake Systems
- 1.8 Accessory and Safety Systems
- 1.9 Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
- Chapter 1 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 2 Auto Shop Safety
- Chapter 3 Basic Hand Tools
- Chapter 3 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 3 Technical Terms
- Chapter 3 Introduction
- 3.1 Tool Storage and General Rules
- 3.2 Wrenches
- 3.3 Screwdrivers
- 3.4 Pliers
- 3.5 Hammers
- 3.6 Punches and Chisels
- 3.7 Files
- 3.8 Holding and Cutting Tools
- 3.9 Cleaning and Scraping Tools
- 3.10 Probe and Pickup Tools
- 3.11 Pry Bars and Pullers
- 3.12 Insulated Tools
- Chapter 3 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 4 Power Tools and Equipment
- Chapter 5 Automotive Measurement
- Chapter 6 Service Information and Work Orders
- Chapter 7 Fasteners, Gaskets, Seals, and Sealants
- Chapter 8 Automotive Oils, Coolants, Lubricants, and Chemicals
- Chapter 9 Vehicle Maintenance, Fluid Service, and Recycling
- Chapter 10 Vehicle Cleaning and Detailing
- Chapter 10 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 10 Technical Terms
- Chapter 10 Introduction
- 10.1 Exterior Cleaning
- 10.2 Paint Decontamination
- 10.3 Removing Isolated Scuffs and Scratches
- 10.4 Paint Correction
- 10.5 Paint Protection
- 10.6 Headlight Restoration
- 10.7 Interior Cleaning and Detailing
- 10.8 Glass Cleaning
- Chapter 10 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 11 Automotive Careers and ASE Certification
- Chapter 12 Foundational and Workplace Skills
- Section 2 Engine Design, Diagnosis, and Repair
- Chapter 13 Engine Fundamentals and Design
- Chapter 14 Cylinder Head and Valve Train Components
- Chapter 15 Short Block Assembly
- Chapter 16 Engine Timing Components
- Chapter 17 Engine Size and Performance Measurements
- Chapter 18 Cooling System Technology
- Chapter 18 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 18 Technical Terms
- Chapter 18 Introduction
- 18.1 Engine Cooling Systems
- 18.2 Engine Cooling System Functions
- 18.3 Cooling System Parts
- 18.4 Cooling System Instrumentation
- 18.5 Antifreeze
- 18.6 Supercharger and Turbocharger Cooling Systems
- Chapter 18 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 19 Cooling System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 19 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 19 Technical Terms
- Chapter 19 Introduction
- 19.1 Cooling System Troubleshooting
- 19.2 Cooling System Problems
- 19.3 Water Pump Service
- 19.4 Thermostat Service
- 19.5 Cooling System Hose Service
- 19.6 Freeze Plug Service
- 19.7 Radiator Service
- 19.8 Engine Fan Service
- 19.9 Coolant Service
- 19.10 Flushing a Cooling System
- 19.11 Supercharger Coolant Service
- Chapter 19 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 20 Lubrication System Fundamentals
- Chapter 21 Lubrication System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 21 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 21 Technical Terms
- Chapter 21 Introduction
- 21.1 Lubrication System Diagnosis and Repair
- 21.2 Lubrication System Problems
- 21.3 Engine Oil and Filter Service
- 21.4 Oil Pump Service
- 21.5 Oil Pressure Relief Valve Service
- 21.6 Oil Pressure Monitor and Gauge Service
- Chapter 21 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 22 Engine Mechanical Problems
- Chapter 22 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 22 Technical Terms
- Chapter 22 Introduction
- 22.1 Why Is Diagnosis Important?
- 22.2 Common Engine Mechanical Problems
- 22.3 Testing Engine Mechanical Conditions
- 22.4 Engine Gasket Problems
- 22.5 Cylinder Head Problems
- 22.6 Valve Train Problems
- 22.7 Camshaft Timing Mechanism Problems
- 22.8 Cylinder Block Problems
- 22.9 Connecting Rod and Piston Problems
- 22.10 Crankshaft and Bearing Problems
- 22.11 Engine Mount Problems
- 22.12 Intake and Exhaust Manifold Problems
- Chapter 22 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 23 Engine Removal, Disassembly, and Cleaning
- Chapter 24 Short Block Rebuilding and Machining
- Chapter 24 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 24 Technical Terms
- Chapter 24 Introduction
- 24.1 Cylinder Block Service
- 24.2 Cylinder Honing
- 24.3 Block Boring
- 24.4 Crankshaft Service
- 24.5 Installing the Rear Main Bearing Oil Seal
- 24.6 Main Bearing and Crankshaft Installation
- 24.7 Piston Service
- 24.8 Piston Pin Service
- 24.9 Connecting Rod Service
- 24.10 Installing Piston Rings
- 24.11 Installing the Piston and Rod Assembly
- 24.12 Engine Balancing
- 24.13 Balance Shaft Service
- Chapter 24 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 25 Cylinder Head and Valve Train Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 25 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 25 Technical Terms
- Chapter 25 Introduction
- 25.1 Cylinder Head Problems and Disassembly
- 25.2 Valve Guide Service
- 25.3 Valve Seat Reconditioning
- 25.4 Valve Spring Service
- 25.5 Cylinder Head Reassembly
- 25.6 Camshaft Service
- 25.7 Rocker Assembly Service
- 25.8 Push Rod Service
- 25.9 Lifter and Follower Service
- Chapter 25 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 26 Engine Timing Component Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 27 Engine Reassembly, Installation, and Break-In
- Chapter 27 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 27 Technical Terms
- Chapter 27 Introduction
- 27.1 General Engine Assembly Rules
- 27.2 Engine Reassembly
- 27.3 Cylinder Head Installation
- 27.4 Intake and Exhaust Manifold Installation
- 27.5 Overhead Camshaft and Housing Installation
- 27.6 Valve Train Assembly
- 27.7 Final Engine Assembly
- 27.8 Installing the Engine
- 27.9 Engine Start-Up and Break-In
- Chapter 27 Review and Assessment
- Section 3 Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles
- Chapter 28 Automatic Transmission and Transaxle Technology
- Chapter 28 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 28 Technical Terms
- Chapter 28 Introduction
- 28.1 Basic Conventional Automatic Transmission
- 28.2 Torque Converter
- 28.3 Planetary Gearset
- 28.4 Clutches and Bands
- 28.5 Hydraulic System
- 28.6 Automatic Transmission Power Flow
- 28.7 Electronic Transmission Control
- 28.8 Automatic Transmission Types
- 28.9 Transaxle
- Chapter 28 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 29 Automatic Transmission and Transaxle Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 29 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 29 Technical Terms
- Chapter 29 Introduction
- 29.1 Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Concern Diagnosis
- 29.2 Preliminary Checks
- 29.3 Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Maintenance
- 29.4 Electronic Control System Service
- 29.5 Major Transmission/Transaxle Service
- Chapter 29 Review and Assessment
- Section 4 Manual Transmissions/Transaxles and Drive Trains
- Chapter 30 Manual Transmission/Transaxle and Clutch Technology
- Chapter 30 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 30 Technical Terms
- Chapter 30 Introduction
- 30.1 Clutch Principles
- 30.2 Clutch Construction
- 30.3 Basic Manual Transmission
- 30.4 Gear Fundamentals
- 30.5 Manual Transmission/Transaxle Construction
- 30.6 Manual Transmission and Transaxle Types
- 30.7 Manual Transmission Power Flow
- 30.8 Manual Transmission Sensors and Switches
- Chapter 30 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 31 Manual Transmission/Transaxle and Clutch Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 31 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 31 Technical Terms
- Chapter 31 Introduction
- 31.1 Manual Transmission/Transaxle Concern Diagnosis
- 31.2 Manual Transmission/Transaxle Problems
- 31.3 Manual Transmission/Transaxle Service
- 31.4 Clutch Concern Diagnosis
- 31.5 Clutch Service
- Chapter 31 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 32 Driveline Technology
- Chapter 33 Driveline Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 34 Differential, Drive Axle, and Transfer Case Technology
- Chapter 34 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 34 Technical Terms
- Chapter 34 Introduction
- 34.1 Basic Drive Axle Assembly
- 34.2 Differential Construction
- 34.3 Differential Operation
- 34.4 Limited-Slip Differentials
- 34.5 Drive Axles
- 34.6 Front Differential Assemblies
- 34.7 Transfer Cases
- Chapter 34 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 35 Differential, Drive Axle, and Transfer Case Diagnosis and Service
- Section 5 Suspension and Steering Systems
- Chapter 36 Tire, Wheel, and Wheel Bearing Fundamentals
- Chapter 37 Tire, Wheel, and Wheel Bearing Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 37 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 37 Technical Terms
- Chapter 37 Introduction
- 37.1 Tire, Wheel, and Wheel Bearing Diagnosis
- 37.2 Wheel Cover and Cap Service
- 37.3 Tire Maintenance
- 37.4 Measuring Tire and Wheel Runout
- 37.5 Wheel Balance
- 37.6 Mounting and Dismounting Tires
- 37.7 Tire Puncture Repair
- 37.8 Tire Pressure Monitoring System Service
- 37.9 Wheel Bearing Service
- Chapter 37 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 38 Suspension System Technology
- Chapter 38 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 38 Technical Terms
- Chapter 38 Introduction
- 38.1 Functions of a Suspension System
- 38.2 Simple Suspension System
- 38.3 Independent and Non-Independent Suspension Systems
- 38.4 Vehicle Handling Conditions Affected by the Suspension System
- 38.5 Suspension System Components
- 38.6 Suspension System Types
- 38.7 Suspension Leveling Systems
- 38.8 Electronic Suspension System
- 38.9 Active Suspension System
- Chapter 38 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 39 Suspension System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 39 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 39 Technical Terms
- Chapter 39 Introduction
- 39.1 Suspension System Diagnosis
- 39.2 Shock Absorber Service
- 39.3 Suspension Spring Service
- 39.4 Ball Joint Service
- 39.5 Suspension Bushing Service
- 39.6 MacPherson Strut Service
- 39.7 Wheel Alignment Is Needed
- 39.8 Computerized Suspension Diagnosis
- Chapter 39 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 40 Steering System Technology
- Chapter 40 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 40 Technical Terms
- Chapter 40 Introduction
- 40.1 Functions of a Steering System
- 40.2 Basic Steering Systems
- 40.3 Steering Column Assembly
- 40.4 Steering Gear Principles
- 40.5 Parallelogram Steering Linkage System
- 40.6 Rack-and-Pinion Steering
- 40.7 Power Steering Systems
- 40.8 Lane-Keeping Assistance Systems
- 40.9 Four-Wheel Steering Systems
- Chapter 40 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 41 Steering System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 41 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 41 Technical Terms
- Chapter 41 Introduction
- 41.1 Steering System Problem Diagnosis
- 41.2 Steering System Maintenance
- 41.3 Steering Column Service
- 41.4 Steering Linkage Service
- 41.5 Rack-and-Pinion Service
- 41.6 Power Steering System Service
- Chapter 41 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 42 Wheel Alignment
- Chapter 42 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 42 Technical Terms
- Chapter 42 Introduction
- 42.1 Wheel Alignment Principles
- 42.2 Caster
- 42.3 Camber
- 42.4 Toe
- 42.5 Thrust Angle
- 42.6 Pre-alignment Inspection
- 42.7 Adjusting Wheel Alignment
- 42.8 Wheel Alignment Machines and Equipment
- 42.9 Road Test After Alignment
- Chapter 42 Review and Assessment
- Section 6 Brake Systems
- Chapter 43 Brake System Technology
- Chapter 44 Brake System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 44 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 44 Technical Terms
- Chapter 44 Introduction
- 44.1 Brake System Problem Diagnosis
- 44.2 Brake System Inspection
- 44.3 Power Brake Booster Service
- 44.4 Master Cylinder Service
- 44.5 Brake Line and Hose Service
- 44.6 Disc Brake Service
- 44.7 Brake Rotor Service
- 44.8 Drum Brake Service
- 44.9 Parking Brake Adjustment
- Chapter 44 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 45 Anti-Lock Brakes, Traction Control, and Stability Control Systems
- Chapter 45 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 45 Technical Terms
- Chapter 45 Introduction
- 45.1 Anti-Lock Brake Systems
- 45.2 Traction Control Systems
- 45.3 Electronic Stability Control Systems
- 45.4 ABS Service
- 45.5 Electronic Stability and Traction Control System Service
- 45.6 Final ABS Check
- Chapter 45 Review and Assessment
- Section 7 Electricity and Electronics Systems
- Chapter 46 Electrical Principles
- Chapter 47 Circuit Types and Ohm’s Law
- Chapter 48 Electrical and Electronic Components
- Chapter 49 Electrical Tools and Test Equipment
- Chapter 50 Wiring Diagrams and Wiring Repairs
- Chapter 51 Basic Electrical Tests
- Chapter 51 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 51 Technical Terms
- Chapter 51 Introduction
- 51.1 Identifying Circuit Problems
- 51.2 Electrical Diagnosis and Repair
- 51.3 Types of Circuit Problems
- 51.4 Using Jumper Wires and Test Lights
- 51.5 Using a Multimeter
- 51.6 Basic Component Tests
- Chapter 51 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 52 12-Volt Battery Technology, Diagnosis, and Service
- Chapter 53 12-Volt Starting System Technology, Diagnosis, and Service
- Chapter 53 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 53 Technical Terms
- Chapter 53 Introduction
- 53.1 12-Volt Starting System Principles
- 53.2 Starting Motor Fundamentals
- 53.3 12-Volt Starting Motor Construction
- 53.4 12-Volt Starter Relay and Neutral Safety Feature
- 53.5 ECM-Controlled Starting Circuits
- 53.6 12-Volt Starting System Diagnosis
- 53.7 12-Volt Battery Cable Service
- 53.8 Starter Solenoid Service
- 53.9 Ignition Switch Service
- 53.10 12-Volt Starter Relay and Neutral Safety Feature Service
- 53.11 12-Volt Starting Motor Service
- Chapter 53 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 54 12-Volt Charging System Technology, Diagnosis, and Service
- Chapter 54 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 54 Technical Terms
- Chapter 54 Introduction
- 54.1 12-Volt Charging System Functions
- 54.2 12-Volt Charging System
- 54.3 12-Volt Charging System Diagnosis
- 54.4 12-Volt Charging System Precautions
- 54.5 12-Volt Charging System Tests
- 54.6 Alternator Service
- Chapter 54 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 55 Restraint System Technology
- Chapter 55 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 55 Technical Terms
- Chapter 55 Introduction
- 55.1 Protecting Passengers in Vehicle Collisions
- 55.2 Active and Passive Restraints
- 55.3 Seat Belt Systems
- 55.4 Knee Diverters
- 55.5 Steering Columns
- 55.6 Air Bag Systems
- 55.7 Air Bag Sensors
- 55.8 Air Bag Controller Function
- Chapter 55 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 56 Restraint System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 57 Lights, Instrumentation, Wipers, and Horns—Operation, Diagnosis, and Service
- Chapter 58 Security, Audio Systems, and Power Accessories
- Section 8 HVAC Systems
- Chapter 59 HVAC Fundamentals and Technology
- Chapter 60 HVAC Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 60 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 60 Technical Terms
- Chapter 60 Introduction
- 60.1 Inspecting an A/C System
- 60.2 Refrigerants
- 60.3 Testing an A/C System
- 60.4 Common Component Problems
- 60.5 Evacuating an A/C System
- 60.6 Charging an A/C System
- 60.7 A/C System Service Rules
- 60.8 Heater Service
- 60.9 Electronic Climate Control Service
- Chapter 60 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 61 EPA Section 609—Review of Refrigerant Recovery and Handling Regulations
- Section 9 Engine Performance and Emission Control Systems
- Chapter 62 Automotive Fuels and Combustion Efficiency
- Chapter 63 Fuel Tanks, Pumps, Lines, and Filters
- Chapter 64 Gasoline Injection Fundamentals
- Chapter 64 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 64 Technical Terms
- Chapter 64 Introduction
- 64.1 Gasoline Injection Fundamentals
- 64.2 Direct and Indirect Injection
- 64.3 Electronic Fuel Injector Types
- 64.4 Fuel Pressure Regulator
- 64.5 Fuel Control Sensors
- 64.6 Engine Idle Speed Control
- Chapter 64 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 65 Gasoline Injection Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 65 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 65 Technical Terms
- Chapter 65 Introduction
- 65.1 Gasoline Injection Problem Diagnosis
- 65.2 Fuel System Tests
- 65.3 Fuel Injector Problems and Tests
- 65.4 Cleaning and Replacing Multiport and Direct Fuel Injectors
- 65.5 Fuel Pressure Regulator Service
- 65.6 Fuel System Sensor Service
- 65.7 Control Module Service
- Chapter 65 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 66 Ignition System Technology
- Chapter 67 Ignition System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 68 Exhaust System Technology, Diagnosis, and Service
- Chapter 69 Turbochargers and Superchargers—Operation, Diagnosis, and Service
- Chapter 70 Computer System Fundamentals
- Chapter 71 Computer Networks
- Chapter 72 On-Board Diagnostics and Scan Tools
- Chapter 73 Computer System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 74 Emission Control Systems
- Chapter 75 Emission Control System Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 76 Engine Performance
- Chapter 77 Advanced Diagnostics
- Chapter 77 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 77 Technical Terms
- Chapter 77 Introduction
- 77.1 Strategy-Based Diagnostics
- 77.2 Advanced Scan Tool Features
- 77.3 Checking ECM Terminal Values
- 77.4 Electromagnetic Interference
- 77.5 Digital Thermometer and Thermal Imager Tests
- 77.6 Dynamometer Testing
- 77.7 Using an Oscilloscope
- Chapter 77 Review and Assessment
- Section 10 HEV/PHEV/EV Systems and Service
- Chapter 78 Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Safety
- Chapter 78 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 78 Technical Terms
- Chapter 78 Introduction
- 78.1 Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Hazards
- 78.2 Personal Protective Equipment for High-Voltage System Service
- 78.3 Tools and Equipment for High-Voltage System Service
- 78.4 Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Service Precautions
- Chapter 78 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 79 Hybrid and EV Drive Technology
- Chapter 79 Learning Outcomes
- Chapter 79 Technical Terms
- Chapter 79 Introduction
- 79.1 Battery Electric and Hybrid Electric Vehicles
- 79.2 High-Voltage Vehicle Drive Construction
- 79.3 Hybrid Electric Drive Systems
- 79.4 Hybrid Vehicle Types
- 79.5 Series-Parallel Hybrid Vehicle Modes of Operation
- Chapter 79 Review and Assessment
- Chapter 80 Hybrid and EV Drive Systems Diagnosis and Service
- Chapter 81 HV Battery Technology and Service
- Chapter 82 HV Starting and Charging Systems Technology, Diagnosis, and Service
- Section 11 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and Service
- Chapter 83 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Technology and Operation
- Chapter 84 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Diagnosis and Service
- Appendix Reference Materials
- Glossary
- Index