4. Signs of Brake Pad Wear:
- Squealing or Grinding Noise: A high-pitched squealing noise when braking can indicate that the brake pads are worn down. A grinding noise may suggest that the brake pads are completely worn out, and metal is rubbing against the rotor.
- Reduced Braking Performance: If you notice that your vehicle takes longer to stop or requires more pressure on the brake pedal, it may be a sign that the brake pads are worn.
- Vibrations or Pulling: Vibrations through the brake pedal or steering wheel, or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking can indicate uneven wear on the brake pads.

3. Worm and Sector Steering: Worm and sector steering gearboxes feature a worm gear that engages with a sector gear to convert steering wheel rotation into wheel movement. This type of steering gearbox is commonly found in older vehicles and heavy-duty trucks due to its durability and strength.

5. **Check for steam or sweet smell:**
If you notice steam coming from under the hood or a sweet smell while driving, it may indicate a coolant leak. These are signs that the coolant is leaking and evaporating due to the heat of the engine.

What to Do When the Check Engine Light Comes On:
1. Check the Gas Cap: Sometimes, a loose gas cap can trigger the check engine light. Make sure the gas cap is properly secured.
2. Address the Issue Promptly: Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more serious and costly repairs down the road. It’s best to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your vehicle.
3. Regular Maintenance: To prevent the check engine light from coming on, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tune-ups, and replacing worn-out parts.

3. **Check hoses and connections:**
Inspect all hoses and connections for any signs of leaks, cracks, or bulges. Pay close attention to the hoses connected to the radiator, water pump, and heater core.

In conclusion, the check engine light is a valuable tool that can help you identify potential issues with your vehicle. By understanding what the check engine light means, common reasons for it to come on, and how to diagnose and address the issue, you can ensure the health and longevity of your vehicle. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional mechanic for expert advice and repairs.

2. **Inspect for puddles or stains:**
Check the ground underneath the vehicle for any puddles or stains, which may be a sign of a coolant leak. Coolant is usually green, orange, or pink in color, so be on the lookout for those colors.

5. When to Replace Brake Pads:
It is recommended to have your brake pads inspected regularly, typically during routine maintenance services. However, a general rule of thumb is to replace brake pads every 50,000 miles, but this can vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and the type of brake pads used.

Common Reasons for the Check Engine Light to Come On:
1. Loose or faulty gas cap
2. Oxygen sensor malfunction
3. Catalytic converter issues
4. Mass airflow sensor problems
5. Spark plug or ignition coil issues
6. Emission control system faults
7. Engine misfire
8. Transmission issues

Types of Steering Gearbox:
1. Rack-and-Pinion Steering: This is the most common type of steering gearbox found in modern vehicles. It utilizes a rack and a pinion gear to convert the rotational motion of the steering wheel into lateral movement of the wheels. Rack-and-pinion steering is known for its simplicity, responsiveness, and ease of maintenance.

What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
The check engine light, also known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), is part of your car's onboard diagnostics (OBD) system. When the check engine light comes on, it indicates that the OBD system has detected a problem with the vehicle's engine, transmission, or emissions Variable Valve Timing Control system. It could be a minor issue or a more serious problem that requires immediate attention.

The dreaded check engine light - it’s a sight that no car owner ever wants to see illuminate on their dashboard. But rather than panicking or ignoring it, it’s important to understand that the check engine light is a valuable tool that can provide insight into the health of your vehicle. Here's a guide to help you navigate the world of check engine light diagnosis.

There are several key components that make up coolant, including a base fluid, corrosion inhibitors, lubricants, and a dye to help identify leaks. The most common base fluids used in coolant are ethylene glycol and propylene glycol. These fluids have high boiling points and low freezing points, making them effective in both hot and cold conditions.

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that is specially formulated to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders. It serves as the medium through which pressure is transmitted within the braking system, allowing for the effective conversion of mechanical energy into stopping power.