What is the purpose of turning the choke ON during cold starts?

• A. It speeds up the engine.
• B. It lowers the engine temperature.
• C. It enriches the fuel mixture for cold starts.
• D. It disconnects the battery.

Answer: (C)

Turning the choke ON during a cold start is about enriching the fuel mixture. When an engine is cold, fuel doesn’t vaporize as well and the cylinders need a little extra fuel to ignite reliably. The choke restricts air flow, making the air-fuel mixture richer so combustion can start and the engine can run smoothly at first. As the engine warms up, you open the choke so the mixture returns toward normal for efficient running. Leaving the choke on too long can cause the engine to run poorly or foul plugs.