Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3
INTRODUCTION TO VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
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INTRODUCTION TO VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
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Subject: Applied Technology
Class: SHS 3
Term: 1st Term
Week: 7
Grade code: 3.1.2.LI.4
Strand code: 1
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 3.1.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 3.1.2.LI.4
Theme: AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Subtheme: INTRODUCTION TO VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
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This lesson introduces the "brain" of modern vehicles – the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system. In Ghana, as we see more modern "home-used" and new cars on our roads, the days of a mechanic simply listening to the engine to find a problem are changing. Understanding OBD is crucial for any modern automotive technician. It is the language cars use to tell us what is wrong with them. This skill is not just for advanced garages in Accra; it is becoming essential for local "fitters" in every town from Bolgatanga to Cape Coast to stay competitive and provide effective service. This lesson will equip you with the foundational knowledge to diagnose vehicle faults accurately and efficiently.
A. What is Vehicle Diagnostics?
Think of a doctor and a patient. When you are sick, you go to the doctor, describe your symptoms (e.g., "I have a headache and a fever"), and the doctor runs tests to find the cause.
In the same way, vehicle diagnostics is the process of identifying the root cause of a problem in a vehicle. The "symptom" might be a strange noise, poor fuel economy, or a warning light on the dashboard. The "doctor" is the technician, and the "tests" are run using specialised tools, including the car's own self-diagnostic system. B. On-Board Diagnostics (OBD)
Definition: On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) is a computer system integrated into a vehicle's main computer (Engine Control Unit - ECU). Its primary job is to monitor the performance of key engine and emissions-related components.