Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year, for instance, each spring and fall.
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 the hoses for the following:
| • | Proper hookup |
| • | Binding |
| • | Leaks |
| • | Cracks |
| • | Chafing, etc. |
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
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 and replace the radiator hoses if they are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated.
Inspect all of the pipes, the fittings, and the clamps and replace as needed.
Important: The radiator and the A/C condenser should be kept clean to ensure proper system performance. Cleaning is recommended at least once a year.
Inspect the front surface of the radiator and the A/C condenser. Insects, leaves, debris, etc. can affect the performance of the radiator and the A/C condenser.
If the front surface of either or both of these components requires 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, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year.
Throttle System Inspection-- Except 3800 Series V6 Engine
The throttle system including the accelerator and the cruise control should operate freely and without hesitation between full closed and wide open throttle.
Important: The accelerator and the cruise control cables should NOT be lubricated under any circumstance. Any throttle system components causing hesitation or sticking should be replaced.
Inspect for 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. Inspect for melting and/or discoloration |
| • | Cable kinking. Avoid sharp bends in cables |
| • | Clearance of the throttle system's moving parts throughout their travel from other stationary components |
| • | Damage of any components due to cable kinking, severe abrasion, misalignment, etc. If any of the above conditions exist, see your dealer for a rerouting, adjustment, or replacement recommendation |
Rear Axle Service
Check the gear lubricant level in the rear axle and add if needed. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Check the axle and repair it if needed.
Brake System Inspection
Inspect the entire brake 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 surface condition of the rotors. Inspect all 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.
