MAINTENANCE
171 Seats
Check that all front seat controls such as seat adjusters,
seatback recliner, etc. operate smoothly and that all latches
lock securely in any position. Check that the head restraints
move up and down smoothly and that the locks hold securely
in any latched position.
Seat belts
Check that the seat belt system such as buckles, retractors
and anchors operate properly and smoothly. Make sure the
belt webbing is not cut, frayed, worn or damaged.
Accelerator pedal
Check the pedal for smooth operation and uneven pedal effort
or catching.
Brake pedal
Check the pedal for smooth operation and check that the pedal
has the proper clearance and freeplay. Check the brake
booster function. See page 206 for additional information.
Brakes
At a safe place, check that the brakes do not pull to one side
when applied.
Parking brake
On a safe incline, step on the parking brake pedal and check
that the vehicle is stopped using only the parking brake. See
page 207 for additional information.Automatic transmission “Park” mechanism
Check the lock release button of the selector lever for proper
and smooth operation. On a safe incline, check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in “P” position
and all brakes released.
Engine compartment
Items listed below should be checked from time to time,
e.g. each time when refueling.
Washer fluid
Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the tank. See page 230 for
additional information.
Engine coolant level
Make sure the coolant level is between the Upper and Lower
lines on the see-through reservoir when the engine is cool. See
page 200 for additional information.
Radiator and hoses
Make sure the front of the radiator is clean and not blocked with
leaves, dirt or bugs. Check the hoses for cracks, kinks, rot and
loose connections.
Battery electrolyte level
Check the electrolyte level. Add only distilled water when
replenishing. See page 222 for additional information.
MAINTENANCE
172Brake fluid level
Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See page 206 for
additional information.
Engine drive belt
Check belt for 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 198 for additional
information.
Power steering fluid level
Check the level on the dipstick. The level should be in the
“HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid temperature.
See page 208 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
209 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 after 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
