Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, each spring and fall). A dealer's service department or qualified service center should perform theses inspections. All repairs should be completed at once.
Steering, Suspension and Front Drive Axle Boot and Seal Inspection
Inspect the front and rear suspension and steering system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs of wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect the power steering lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, etc. Clean and then inspect the front wheel drive shaft boot seals for damage, tears or leakage. Service the vehicle as necessary.
Exhaust System Inspection
Inspect the complete system. Inspect the body near the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged, missing or out-of-position parts as well as open seams, holes, loose connections or other conditions which could cause a heat build-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes into the vehicle. Service the vehicle as necessary.
Engine Cooling System Inspection
Inspect the hoses and replace them if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once per year. Refer to Cooling System Leak Testing in Engine Cooling.
Throttle System Inspection
Important: The accelerator and cruise control cables should not be lubricated under any condition. Throttle system components causing hesitation or sticking should be replaced.
Inspect the following:
| • | Missing parts such as retainers or clips. |
| • | Interference of the linkage or the cable conduit to critical components such as fuel lines, brake lines, harness leads, etc. |
| • | Proximity of the cable to the exhaust system and other heat sources: check for melting and/or discoloration. |
| • | Cable kinking. Avoid sharp bends of cables. |
| • | Clearance of the throttle system moving parts throughout their travel from other stationary components. |
| • | Damage of the components due to cable kinking, severe kinking, severe abrasion, misalignment, etc. If any of the above conditions exists, notify your dealer for a recommended rerouting, adjustment, or replacement. |
Rear Axle (All) and Front Axle (Four-Wheel Drive) Service
Inspect the constant velocity (CV) joints and axle seals for leakage.
Inspect the gear lubricant level and add if needed. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Inspect the system(s), and repair the system(s) if needed. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
Brake System Inspection
Inspect the complete system.
Inspect the brake lines and the hoses for the following:
- Proper hookup
- Binding
- Leaks
- Cracks
- Chafing, etc.
Inspect the disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Also inspect drum brake linings for wear and cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including the drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, the parking brake, etc.
Inspect parking brake adjustment.
The brakes may need to be inspected more often if driving habits or conditions result in frequent braking.
Transfer Case Inspection (Automatic Four Wheel Drive)
Inspect every 12 months or at oil interval changes, add the proper fluid as needed.
Inspect the transfer case vent hose for kinks and proper installation.
