Before inspecting the engine compartment and front axle components, which action should you perform?

Before inspecting the engine compartment and front axle components, which action should you perform?

• A. Put the vehicle's keys in the ignition, depress the clutch, and start the engine.
• B. Verify the parking brakes have been set.
• C. Remove the chocks from the wheels.
• D. Close the hood.

Answer: (B)

Setting the parking brakes before reaching into the engine compartment and front axle area is a safety baseline. Engaging the parking brakes ensures the vehicle won’t roll while you’re inspecting near pedals, wheels, or the hood, and it reduces the risk of moving the vehicle if you accidentally press a pedal or disturb components. Starting the engine would create moving parts and hazards right where you’re working, removing wheel chocks would remove a crucial stability barrier, and closing the hood isn’t necessary for preventing movement during the inspection and is something you’d do after you’re finished.

Setting the parking brakes before reaching into the engine compartment and front axle area is a safety baseline. Engaging the parking brakes ensures the vehicle won’t roll while you’re inspecting near pedals, wheels, or the hood, and it reduces the risk of moving the vehicle if you accidentally press a pedal or disturb components. Starting the engine would create moving parts and hazards right where you’re working, removing wheel chocks would remove a crucial stability barrier, and closing the hood isn’t necessary for preventing movement during the inspection and is something you’d do after you’re finished.