大学英语六级阅读练习：二手汽车_大学英语阅读

大学英语六级阅读练习：二手汽车

　　Check the odometer for total mileage , and then compare that figure with any stickers still attached to door posts. Its illegal to change odometer readings, but it happens. If there are no stickers, be a little suspicious. Check pedals and controls: wear on these parts should agree with the mileage. If they are brand new, be suspicious. If they are worn out, beware.

　　Check that the doors, hood and trunk all open smoothly and close with solid sound. Sight along the sides of the car from 30 feet away to be sure that the rear and front wheels line up.

　　Look under the car for fluid leaks. Except for condensation from a working air conditioner on a hot day, no car should ever drip anything, any time.

　　Now sit in the drivers seat and try the controls. The car should fit youit should be comfortable. Check seat adjustment, door locks, window-raising mechanisms, horn, lights, directional signals, radioall accessories.

　　Start the engine. It should turn over quickly and then settle down to a rather fast idle. Give the engine a moment or two before you press the accelerator a bit. Watch for smoke from the rear. Blue smoke might mean a complete engine overhaul , black a maladjusted carburetor . ? 2 ?

　　White smoke can be. Ignored if the engine is cold, but once it is warmed up, white smoke can mean a leaking head gasket : expensive. Reject this car.

　　After the engine has warmed, shut it off, and then go wipe your finger inside the tailpipe . The residue should be whitish-gay. If you get a black, oily mark, refuse the carits probably an oil burner.