† The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the California Air Resources Board has determined that the failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to the completion of the vehicle's useful life. We, however, urge that all recommended maintenance services be performed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance be recorded.
# Lubricate the front suspension, steering linkage, rear driveline center splines (van models), and parking brake cable guides. Control arm ball joints on pickup models require lubrication but should not be lubricated unless their temperature is 10°F (-12°C) or higher, or they could be damaged. Vehicles used under severe commercial operating conditions require lubrication on a regular basis every 3,000 miles (5 000 km).
(a) 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.
(b) If driving regularly under dusty conditions, inspect the filter or change indicator, if equipped, at each engine oil change.
(c) 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 drum brake linings/shoes for wear or cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc.
(d) 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. Pickup models: Visually check constant velocity joints, rubber boots, and axle seals for leaks.
(e) 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.
(f) 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 and Wiper Blades" and "Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement" in the owner manual for more information.
(g) 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" in the owner manual.
(h) Lubricate all key lock cylinders, body door hinges, hood latch assembly, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release pawl, fuel door hinge, locks, latches, and any folding or moving seat hardware. Pickup models: Lubricate tailgate hinges, tailgate linkage, tailgate handle pivot points, and latch bolt. Van models: Lubricate hood hinges and rear compartment hinges. More frequent lubrication may 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.
(i) Van Models: If the two chassis mounted fuel filters have not been replaced, or if the vehicle has been driven 20,000 miles (32 000 km) or more since the fuel filters were last replaced, replace both fuel filters.
(j) Pickup Models: This vehicle has a CHANGE FUEL FILTER message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) to tell you when to replace the fuel filter. See DIC Warnings and Messages for more information and how to reset the message after the fuel filter is replaced. If the fuel filter has not been replaced, or if the vehicle has been driven 15,000 miles (25 000 km) or more since the fuel filter was last replaced, replace the filter and reset the message.
(k) Inspect shields and underhood insulation for damage or looseness. Adjust or replace as required. This is a Noise Emission Control Service. Applicable to vehicles sold in the United States and recommended for vehicles sold in Canada.
(l) Check the air intake system installation to assure that gaskets are properly sealed and that all hose connections, fasteners, and other components are tight. Also check to be sure that the air cleaner housing is properly seated and the cover fits tightly. Tighten connections and fasteners or replace damaged parts as necessary. This is a Noise Emission Control Service. Applicable to vehicles sold in the United States and recommended for vehicles sold in Canada.
(m) Check system for interference or binding and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as needed. Replace any components that have high effort or excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator or cruise control cables.
(n) Check vent hose at transfer case for kinks and proper installation. Check to be sure vent hose is unobstructed, clear, and free of debris. During any maintenance, if a power washer is used to clean mud and dirt from the underbody, care should be taken to not directly spray the transfer case output seals. High pressure water can overcome the seals and contaminate the transfer case fluid. Contaminated fluid will decrease the life of the transfer case and should be replaced.
(o) Extreme Duty Service: Change transfer case fluid if the vehicle is mainly driven off-road in four-wheel drive, or is used for heavy trailer towing. Farming, mining, forestry, and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) vehicles meet this definition.
(p) Change automatic transmission fluid and external transmission 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. |
(q) Check vent hose at transfer case for kinks and proper installation.
(r) 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, van model fuel operated heater (if equipped), pressure cap, and filler neck. Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap. For van models, see Fuel Operated Heater (FOH) .
(s) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
(t) Severe Service: Change transfer case fluid if the vehicle is mainly used for trailer towing or driven in city traffic, wet environment, or high ambient temperatures.