MAINTENANCE
150Brake fluid level
Make sure the brake fluid levels is correct. See page 184 for
additional information.
Engine drive belts
Check the belts or fraying, cracks, wear or oiliness.
Engine oil level
Check the level on the dipstick with the engine turned off and
the vehicle parked on a level spot. See page 176 for additional
information.
Power steering fluid level
Check the level through the reservoir. The level should be in
the “HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid
temperature. See page 187 for additional information.
Automatic transmission fluid level
Check the level on the dipstick with the engine idling and the
selector lever in “P”. The level should be in the “HOT” or
“COOL” range according to the fluid temperature. See page
188 for additional information.
Exhaust system
Look for cracks, holes and loose supports. If you notice any
change in the sound of the exhaust or smell exhaust fumes,
have the cause located and corrected immediately. (See
engine exhaust cautions in Section 3-1.)
DOES YOUR VEHICLE NEED
REPAIRING?
Be on the alert for changes in performance and sounds, and
visual tip-offs that indicate service is needed. Some important
clues are:
Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging
Appreciable loss of power
Strange engine noises
A fluid leak under the vehicle (However, water dripping from
the air conditioning alter use is normal.)
Change in exhaust sound (This may indicate a dangerous
carbon monoxide leak. Drive with the windows open and
have the exhaust system checked immediately.)
Flat-looking tires, excessive tire squeal when cornering;
uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulls to one side when driving straight on a level
road
Strange noises related to suspension movement
Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal,
pedal almost touches floor, vehicle pulls to one side when
braking
Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal
MAINTENANCE
158Spark plugs
Install new plugs of the same type as originally equipped. A
qualified technician should perform this operation.
Charcoal canister
Inspect for internal damage or clogging. Clean with
compressed air or replace if necessary. A qualified technician
should perform this operation.
CHASSIS AND BODY
Brake linings and drums
Check for scoring, burning, broken parts, and excessive wear.
A qualified technician should perform this operation.
Brake pads and discs
Check the pads for excessive wear and the discs for runout
and wear. Also check for leaking fluid. A qualified technician
should perform this operation.
Brake fluid
Check for correct levels of the brake fluid. If the level is low, add
FMVSS No. 116 DOT3 or SAE J1703 brake fluid to the brake
reservoir. Change the brake fluid as scheduled. A qualified
technician should perform these operations.Brake line pipes and hoses
Visually check for proper installation. Check for chafing,
cracks, deterioration, and any evidence of leaking. Replace
any deteriorated or damaged parts immediately. A qualified
technician should do these operations.
Steering linkage
With the vehicle stopped, check for excessive freeplay in the
steering wheel. Check the linkage for bends or damage. Check
the dust boots for deterioration, cracks, or damage. Replace
any damaged parts.
Steering gear box
Inspect the steering gear box for signs of leakage. If you
discover any leakage, have it repaired by a qualified technician
immediately.
Drive shaft boots
Inspect the drive shaft boots for clamp looseness, grease
leakage or damage. Replace any deteriorated or damaged
parts immediately. A qualified technician should perform these
operations.
Ball joints and dust covers
Check the suspension and steering linkage ball joints for
looseness or damage. Check all dust covers for deterioration
or damage. A qualified technician should perform these
operations.
