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 .
It is important to perform the following underhood checks at each fuel fill:
Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil, if necessary. For information on checking the engine oil, refer to the Owner's Manual.
Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL® coolant mixture, if necessary. For information on checking the engine coolant level, refer to the Owner's Manual.
Check the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir and add the proper fluid, if necessary. For information on checking the windshield washer fluid level, refer to the Owner's Manual.
Perform the following checks and services at least once a month:
Check the tire inflation. Make sure the tires are inflated to the pressure specified on the Certification/Tire label located on the driver's door lock pillar. For information on checking, refer to Owner's Manual.
Clean the playback head and capstan on the cassette deck. Cleaning should be done every 50 hours of tape play. For information on cleaning the cassette deck, refer to the Owner's Manual.
Perform the following checks and services at least twice a year:
Inspect all of the following belt system components:
• | Safety belt reminder light |
• | Webbing |
• | Buckles |
• | Latch plates |
• | Retractors |
• | Guide loops |
• | Anchors |
• | Built-in child safety restraint components (if applicable): |
- | Harness straps |
- | Latch plates |
- | Buckles |
- | Clips |
- | Retractors |
- | Anchors |
• | Loose or damaged safety belt or built-in child restraint system parts |
Replace the safety belt or harness strap if the webbing has been torn, frayed or otherwise damaged.
Check for opened or broken air bag coverings. Repair or replace if necessary.
Inspect the wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace worn, cracked, or damaged blade inserts and inserts that streak or miss areas of the windshield.
Silicone grease on the weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold, damp weather more frequent application may be required.
Check the transmission fluid level, add if necessary. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. For information on checking the automatic transmission fluid level, refer to the Owner's Manual.
Perform the following checks and services at least once a year:
Lubricate the lock cylinders with the recommended lubricant.
Lubricate all of the following areas:
• | Body door hinges |
• | Body hood, safety lever, and prop rod pivot. |
• | Fuel door |
• | Rear compartment hinges |
• | Rear compartment latches and locks |
• | Instrument panel compartments hinges, latch, and lock cylinder |
• | Console cover hinges and latch |
• | Seat hardware |
More frequent lubrication may be required when exposed to a corrosive environment.
Check the Starter Switch operation by performing the following:
Caution: When performing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly. Personal injury or property damage may result. Make sure there is enough room around the vehicle, in case the vehicle does move. Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn OFF the engine immediately if it starts.
Check the Automatic Transmission Shift Lock operation by performing the following:
Caution: When performing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly. Personal injury or property damage may result. Make sure there is enough room around the vehicle, in case the vehicle does move. Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately should the vehicle begin to move.
While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the key to LOCK in each shift lever position.
The key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P).
The key should only come out when the ignition cylinder is in the LOCK position.
Follow this procedure to test the parking brake and automatic transmission PARK mechanism:
Caution: When performing this check, the vehicle could begin to move. Personal injury or property damage may result. Make sure there is enough room in front of the vehicle, in case the vehicle begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately should the vehicle begin to move.
4.1. | Start the engine. |
4.2. | Place the transmission in NEUTRAL (N). |
4.3. | Slowly remove foot pressure from the hydraulic brake pedal. |
5.1. | Shift to PARK (P). |
5.2. | Release all brakes. |
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.