The following information covers the inspections and service procedures required to retain the safety, dependability, and emission control performance of the vehicle.
Complete the necessary repairs and procedures on time. Use only the recommended fluids and lubricants. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
At Each Fuel Fill
It is important to perform these underhood inspections at each fuel fill.
Engine Oil Level
Inspect the engine oil level and add the proper oil if necessary.
In order to select the proper fluids and lubricants, refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
Engine Coolant Level
Inspect the engine coolant levels and add the proper coolant mixture, if necessary. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
Windshield Washer Fluid Level
Inspect the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir and add the proper fluid if necessary. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
At Least Once a Month
Verify that the tires are inflated to the pressures specified on the Certification/Tire label located on the driver door lock pillar. Refer to Vehicle Certification Label .
At Least Twice A Year
Restraint System Check
Verify that the safety belt reminder light is working properly. Inspect the system for any loose or damaged parts. Repair or replace suspect components. Replace any torn or frayed safety belts.
Repair or replace open or broken air bag coverings. The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.
Lap and Shoulder Belts Condition and Operation:
Inspect all of the following seat belt system components:
| • | Webbing |
| • | Buckles |
| • | Latch plates |
| • | Retractors |
| • | Guide loops |
| • | Anchors |
Replace any belt if the webbing has been cut or otherwise damaged.
Wiper Blade Check
Inspect the wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace blade inserts that appear worn or damaged, or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.
Air Cleaner Filter Restriction Indicator Check
This vehicle has an indicator on the engine that informs the driver when the air cleaner filter needs to be replaced. Inspect the indicator at least twice a year or when the engine oil is changed, whichever occurs first. Refer to Air Cleaner Element Replacement in Engine Controls. Inspect the air cleaner filter restriction indicator more often if the vehicle is used in dusty areas or under off-road conditions.
Automatic Transmission Check
Inspect the automatic transmission fluid level; add fluid if necessary. Refer to Transmission Fluid Check in Automatic Transmission. Any fluid loss may indicate a problem. Inspect the system and repair the transmission as needed.
At Least Once a Year
Key Lock Cylinders
Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the recommended lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
Body Lubrication
Lubricate all of the following areas. In order to determine the proper lubricant, refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
| • | The door hinges and the hardware |
| • | The hood hinges, the safety lever, and the latch |
| • | The fuel door hinge |
| • | The rear compartment hinges |
| • | The rear compartment latches and the locks |
| • | The instrument panel compartment hinges, the latch, and the lock cylinder |
| • | The console cover hinges and the latch |
| • | The seat hardware |
More frequent lubrication may be required when the vehicle is exposed to a corrosive environment.
Starter Switch
Use the following procedure in order to inspect the starter switch:
| • | Before you begin, make sure you have enough room around the vehicle in case the vehicle jumps suddenly. |
| • | Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. Do not use the accelerator pedal. Be prepared to turn off the engine immediately if the engine starts. |
| • | For automatic transmission vehicles, try to start the engine in each gear. The starter should work only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If the starter works in any other position, the vehicle needs immediate service. |
Steering Column Lock
With the vehicle parked and the parking brake set, try to turn the key to LOCK in each shift lever position.
With an automatic transmission, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK.
Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission Park Mechanism Test
Follow this procedure to test the parking brake and the automatic transmission park mechanism:
Caution: When performing this check, the vehicle could begin to move. Personal injury or property damage may result. Make sure there is enough room in front of the vehicle, in case the vehicle begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately should the vehicle begin to move.
- Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill.
- Keep your foot on the hydraulic brake pedal.
- Set the parking brake.
- Test the parking brake as follows:
- In order to test the park mechanism, follow steps 1-3 above then do the following:
| 4.1. | Start the engine |
| 4.2. | Place the transmission in NEUTRAL. |
| 4.3. | Slowly release the foot pressure from the hydraulic brake pedal. |
| 5.1. | Shift to PARK. |
| 5.2. | Release all of the brakes. |
Underbody Flushing
At least every spring, use plain water to flush any corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care to thoroughly clean any areas where mud and other debris can collect.
