# Lubricate the front suspension, steering linkage, and parking brake cable guides. Control arm ball joints require lubrication but should not be lubricated unless their temperature is 10°F (-12°C) or higher, or they could be damaged.
(a) Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect other brake parts, including calipers, parking brake, etc.
(b) Visually inspect front and rear suspension and steering system for damaged, loose, or missing parts, signs of wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect power steering lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.
(c) Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if they are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace with genuine parts as needed. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap and cleaning the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser is recommended at least once a year.
(d) Inspect wiper blades for wear, cracking, or contamination. Clean the windshield and wiper blades, if contaminated. Replace wiper blades that are worn or damaged. See Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement and Windshield and Wiper Blades for more information.
(e) Make sure the safety belt reminder light and safety belt assemblies 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 see Checking the Restraint Systems .
(f) Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood latch assemblies, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release pawl, hood hinges, body door hinges, rear compartment hinges, sunroof tracks, and any folding seat hardware. More frequent lubrication could be required when exposed to a corrosive environment. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. See Weatherstrips .
(g) A fluid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and the fluid level checked. Add fluid if needed.
(h) Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions:
| • | In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher. |
| • | In hilly or mountainous terrain. |
| • | When doing frequent trailer towing. |
| • | Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery service. |
(i) Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service can be complex; you should have your dealer/retailer perform this service. See Engine Coolant for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap, and filler neck. Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap.
(j) If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, the filter could require replacement more often.
(k) If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change.
(l) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
(m) If using DOT-4 brake fluid only: Drain, flush, and refill brake hydraulic system at a regular maintenance service every two years. This service can be complex; you should have your dealer/retailer perform this service. See Brakes .
