GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Steering, Suspension and Front Drive Axle Boot and Seal Inspection

Inspect the front and the rear suspension and steering system 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.

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. For tire diagnosis information, refer to Suspension.

For wheel alignment diagnosis information, refer to Suspension.

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

Radiator and Heater Hose Inspection

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

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

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 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.

Throttle System Inspection

Throttle system (includes accelerator and cruise control) should operate freely without hesitation between full closed and wide open throttle.

Important: The accelerator and cruise control cables should not be lubricated under any condition. Throttle system components causing hesitation or sticking should be replaced.

Inspect the following:

    • Missing parts such as retainers or clips.
    • Interference of the linkage or the cable conduit to critical components such as fuel lines, brake lines, harness leads, etc.
    • Proximity of the cable to the exhaust system and other heat sources: check for melting and/or discoloration.
    • Cable kinking. Avoid sharp bends of cables.
    • 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. If any of the above conditions exists, notify your dealer for a recommended rerouting, adjustment, or replacement.

Engine Cooling System Inspection

Inspect the hoses and replace if they are:

    • Cracked
    • Swollen
    • Deteriorated

Inspect all fittings and clamps and replace as needed.

Clean the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year.