Wednesday, July 9, 2008

General Maintenance


UNDER THE HOOD AND VEHICLE

Windshield washerfluid
Check that there is adequate fluid in the tank.

Engine coolant level
Check the coolant level when the engine is cold.

Engine oil level
Check the level after parking the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the engine

Brake and clutch fluid levels
Make sure that the brake and clutch fluid levels are between the “MAX” and “MIN” lines on the reservoir.

Battery
Check the fluid level in each cell. It should be between the “MAX” and “MIN” lines.


OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE

Tires
Check the pressure with a gauge periodically when at a service station, including the spare, and adjust to the specified pressure if necessary. Check carefully for damage, cuts or excessive wear.

Windshield wiper blades
Check for cracks or wear if they do not wipe properly.

Doors and engine hood
Check that all doors, the engine hood, the trunk lid and back door operate properly. Also ensure that all latches lock securely. Lubricate if necessary. Make sure that the secondary latch keeps the hood from opening when the primary latch is released. When driving in areas using road salt or other corrosive materials, check for lubrication frequently.

Tire rotation
Tires should be rotated every 10,000 km (6,000 miles).

INSIDE THE VEHICLE

Lamps
Make sure that the headlamps, stop lamps, tail lamps, turn signal lamps, and other lamps are all operating properly and installed securely. Also check headlamp aim.

Warning lamps and chimes
Make sure that all warning lamps and chimes are operating properly.

Steering wheel
Check for change in the steering conditions, such as excessive free play, hard steering or strange noises. Free play: Less than 35 mm (1.38 in).

Seat belts
Check that all parts of the seat belt system (e.g. buckles, anchors, adjusters and retractors)operate properly and smoothly, and are installed securely. Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.

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