Listed as follows 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 these inspections. All repairs should be completed at once.
Steering, Suspension and Front Drive Axle Boot and Seal Inspection
Inspect the front and the rear suspension for the following:
| • | Damaged parts |
| • | Loose or missing parts |
| • | Signs of wear or lack of lubrication |
Inspect the power steering lines and the hoses for the following:
| • | Proper hookup |
| • | Binding |
| • | Leaks |
| • | Cracks |
| • | Chafing, etc. |
Inspect the drive axle boot seals for the following:
| • | Damage |
| • | Tears |
| • | Leakage |
Replace damaged, torn or leaking seals.
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. For exhaust system inspection diagnosis, refer to Exhaust System Inspection in Engine Exhaust.
Engine Cooling System Inspection
Caution: NEVER spray water on a hot heat exchanger. The resulting steam could cause personal injury.
Notice: Compressed air or water can be used to clean the radiator fins. Do not exceed 138 kPa (20 psi). Pressure over 138 kPa (20 psi) will damage the radiator.
Inspect the hoses and replace if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated.
Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace as needed.
Important: The radiator and A/C condenser should be kept clean for proper system performance. Cleaning is recommended at least once a year.
Inspect the front surface of the radiator and A/C condenser. Insects, leaves, debris, etc. can affect the performance of the radiator and A/C condenser.
If the front surface of either or both of these components is found to be in need of cleaning, the unwanted material can be removed by performing the following:
| • | Ensure that the engine is OFF and cool. |
| • | Blow compressed air through the radiator from the rear surface of the radiator toward the front of the vehicle. |
| • | If compressed air is not available, use a water hose to force water through the radiator from the rear surface of the radiator toward the front of the vehicle. |
To help ensure proper cooling system pressure performance, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year. Refer to Cooling System Leak Testing in Engine Cooling.
Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace as needed.
Throttle System Inspection
Inspect the following:
| • | Missing parts such as retainers or clips. |
| • | Interference of the linkage or cable conduit to critical components such as fuel lines, brake lines, harness leads, etc. |
| • | Proximity of the cable to the exhaust system and other head sources: check for melting and/or discoloration. |
| • | Cable for kinks and sharp bends. |
| • | 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. |
Replace high effort or excessively worn cables.
Drive Axle Inspection
Check the front/rear axle fluid level, add the proper fluid as needed. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
Check the constant velocity (CV) joints and axle seals for leakage.
Transfer Case Inspection (Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive)
Check every 12 months or at oil interval changes, add the proper fluid as needed. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
Check the transfer case vent hose for kinks and proper installation.
Brake System Inspection
Inspect the complete system.
Notice: A low brake fluid level can indicate worn disc brake pads which may need to be serviced. Also, if the brake system warning light stays on or comes on, something may be wrong with the brake system. If the anti-lock brake system warning light stays on or comes on, something may be wrong with the anti-lock brake 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. Inspect the rotors for surface condition. Inspect the drum brake linings for wear and cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including the calipers, the wheel cylinders, the parking brake, etc. Check the parking brake adjustment.
The brakes may need to be inspected more often if driving habits or conditions result in frequent braking.
