GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Steering and Suspension 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 hoses for the following:

    • Proper hookup
    • Binding
    • Leaks
    • Cracks
    • Chafing, etc.

Tire and Wheel Inspection

Inspect the tires for uneven wear or damage. If there is irregular or premature wear, check the wheel alignment. Inspect for damaged wheels. Refer to Tire Diagnosis - Irregular or Premature Wear in Tires and Wheels.

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 Diagnostic Starting Point - Engine Exhaust in Engine Exhaust.

Fuel System Inspection

Inspect the complete fuel system for damage or leaks.

Engine Cooling System Inspection

Inspect the hoses and replace if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated.

Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace as needed.

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.

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 Loss of Coolant in Engine Cooling.

Rear Axle Service

Check the gear lubricant level in the rear axle differential and add the proper fluid if necessary. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Check the axle and repair if needed. For information on the proper fluid to use, refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .

For the rear axle lubricant level checking procedure, refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Level Inspection in Rear Drive Axle.

Brake System Inspection

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 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. Inspect the rotors for surface condition. Inspect other brake parts, including the calipers, the parking brake, etc.

The brakes may need to be inspected more often if driving habits or conditions result in frequent braking.