Book excerpt: Modern Automotive Technology details the construction, operation, diagnosis, service, and repair of late-model automobiles and light trucks. This comprehensive text uses a building block approach that starts with the fundamental principles of system operation and progresses gradually to complex diagnostic and service procedures. Short sentences, concise definitions, and thousands of color illustrations help students learn quickly and easily The 1998 edition has been extensively revised and provides thorough coverage of the latest developments in the automotive field, including OBD II diagnostics, IM 240 testing, misfire monitoring, air bag systems, anti-lock brakes, and security systems. Organized around the eight ASE automobile test areas, this text is a valuable resource for students preparing for a career in automotive technology, as well as experienced technicians preparing for the ASE Certification/Recertification Tests.