Replace the engine oil and the engine oil filter.

Engine Oil Quality

Oils of the proper quality for the vehicle can be identified by looking for the Starburst symbol. The Starburst symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API), and is preferred for use in gasoline engines.

Engine Oil Viscosity

The recommended oil viscosity for this vehicle is SAE 5W-30.

Engine oil viscosity (thickness) has an effect on the fuel economy and the cold-weather operation (engine starting and oil flow). Lower viscosity engine oils can provide better fuel economy and cold-weather performance. However, higher temperature weather conditions require higher viscosity engine oils for satisfactory lubrication. SAE 10W-30 may be used if the temperature is 0°F (-18°C). If the temperature falls below -20°F (-29°C), consider using either an SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil.

Notice: Using oils of any viscosity other than those recommended could result in engine damage. When choosing an oil, consider the range of temperatures the vehicle will be operated in before the next oil change. Then, select the recommended oil viscosity.

Oil Filter

Remove the old filter by turning counterclockwise. Clean the gasket sealing area on the engine oil filter mounting surface. (If the engine has an adapter base, make sure threaded nipple or bolt is properly tightened.) Lightly oil gasket with clean oil and install filter. After the oil filter gasket contacts the oil filter mounting surface, tighten 3/4 to 1 full turn. When necessary, use a cap type wrench, AC Delco OF17W or equivalent or strap type wrench with swivel handle to insure proper installation. With engine oil level at proper level, run engine three minutes and thoroughly check filter area for leaks.

Rotate the tires to equalize the wear and obtain maximum tire life. Refer to Tire Rotation in Tires and Wheels.

Check the tires for abnormal wear or damage. If irregular or premature tire wear exists, refer to Tire Diagnosis - Irregular or Premature Wear in Tires and Wheels.

Inspect the air cleaner filter every 25 000 km (15,000 miles) if driving in dusty conditions. Replace if necessary. Replace the air cleaner filter every 50 000 km (30,000 miles). Replace more often under dusty conditions. For a 2.4L engine, refer to Air Cleaner Element Replacement in Engine Controls. For a 3.4L engine, refer to Air Cleaner Element Replacement in Engine Controls.

Change the transaxle fluid and the transaxle fluid filter. Refer to Automatic Transmission Fluid Filter and Seal Replacement in Automatic Transmission/Transaxle.

Inspect the drive belt for:

Drain, flush and refill the cooling system with new coolant. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling in Engine Cooling.

Clean the spark plug wires and inspect for burns, cracks or other damage. Ensure that the fit between the spark plug wire boots at the spark plugs and at the coils is snug. Replace the spark plug wires as needed. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Replacement in Engine Controls.

Replace the spark plugs. Refer to Maintenance Items . For the 2.4 L engine, refer to Spark Plug Replacement or for the 3.4 L engine, refer to Spark Plug Replacement in Engine Controls.