The following information covers the checks and services
required to retain the safety, dependability, and emission control performance
of the vehicle.
Make sure any necessary repairs are completed on time. Whenever any
fluids or lubricants are added to the vehicle, make sure that they are the
proper ones. Refer to
Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations
.
At Each Fuel Fill
It is important to perform these underhood checks at each fuel fill.
Engine Oil Level
Check 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
.
Windshield Washer Fluid Level
Check 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
Tire Inflation: Check tire inflation. Make sure the tires are inflated
to the pressures specified on the Certification/Tire label located on the
driver's door lock pillar. Refer to
Vehicle Certification Label
.
At Least Twice A Year
Restraint System Check
Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all of your belts, buckles,
latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are working properly. Look for any
other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that
might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have
any torn or frayed safety belts replaced.
Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings, and have them
repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)
Wiper Blade Check
Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace the 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 notifies the driver
when the air cleaner filter is dirty and needs to be changed. Check indicator
at least twice a year or when the 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 if needed. Refer
to
Transmission Fluid Check
in Automatic Transmission. A fluid loss may indicate a problem.
Inspect the system and repair as needed.
At Least Once a Year
Key Lock Cylinders: Lubricate the lock cylinders with the recommended
lubricant. Refer to
Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations
.
Lubricate all of the following areas:
Body Lubrication
| • | Body hood, safety lever, and latch |
| • | Rear compartment hinges |
| • | Rear compartment latches and locks |
| • | Instrument panel compartment hinges, latch, and lock cylinder |
| • | Console cover hinges and latch. |
More frequent lubrication may be required when exposed to a corrosive
environment. In order to locate the proper lubricant, refer to
Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations
.
Starter Switch
| • | Before you start, 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, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately
if it starts. |
| • | On 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 service. |
Steering Column Lock
| • | While parked, and with 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 (P). |
Parking Brake and Automatic transmission PARK (P) Mechanism Check.
Caution: When performing this check, the vehicle could begin to move. You or others could
be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front of the
vehicle in case the vehicle begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at
once, should the vehicle begin to move.
Follow this procedure to test the parking brake and automatic transmission
PARK mechanism:
- Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill.
- Keep your foot on the hydraulic brake pedal.
- Set the parking brake.
- In order to check the parking brake:
| 4.2. | Place the transmission in NEUTRAL. |
| 4.3. | Slowly remove foot pressure from the hydraulic brake pedal. |
- In order to check the PARK (P) mechanism, follow steps 1-3
above then do the following:
Lap and Shoulder Belts Condition and Operation:
Inspect all of the following belt system components:
Replace the belt if the webbing has been cut or otherwise damaged.
Underbody Flushing Service
At least every spring, use plain water to flush any corrosive materials
from the underbody. Take care to clean thoroughly any areas where mud and
other debris can collect.
