0B-12 GENERAL INFORMATION
OWNER INSPECTIONS
AND SERVICES
WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Horn Operation
Blow the horn occasionally to make sure it works. Check
all the button locations.
Brake System Operation
Be alert for abnormal sounds, increased brake pedal
travel or repeated puling to one side when braking. Also,
if the brake warning light goes on, or flashes, something
may be wrong with part of the brake system.
Exhaust System Operation
Be alert to any changes in the sound of the system or
the smell of the fumes. These are signs that the system
may be leaking or overheating. Have the system
inspected and repaired immediately.
Tires, Wheels and Alignment Operation
Be alert to any vibration of the steering wheel or the
seats at normal highway speeds. This may mean a wheel
needs to be balanced. Also, a pull right or left on a
straight, level road may show the need for a tire pressure
adjustment or a wheel alignment.
Steering System Operation
Be alert to changes in the steering action. An inspection
is needed when the steering wheel is hard to turn or
has too much free play, or is unusual sounds are noticed
when turning or parking.
Headlight Aim
Take note of the light pattern occasionally. Adjust the
headlights if the beams seem improperly aimed.
AT EACH FUEL FILL
A fluid loss in any (except windshield washer) system
may indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and
repaired immediately.
Engine Oil Level
Check the oil level and add oil if necessary. The best
time to check the engine oil level is when the oil is warm.
1. After stopping the engine, wait a few minutes for the
oil to drain back to the oil pan.
2. Pull out the oil level indicator (dip stick).
3. Wipe it clean, and push the oil level indicator back
down all the way.
4. Pull out the oil level indicator and look at the oil level
on it.5. Add oil, if needed, to keep the oil level above the
lower mark. Avoid overfilling the engine, since this
may cause engine damage.
6. Push the indicator all the way back down into the
engine after taking the reading.
If you check the oil level when the oil is cold, do not run
the engine first. The cold oil will not drain back to the
pan fast enough to give a true oil level reading.
Engine Coolant Level and Condition
Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir tank
and add coolant if necessary. Inspect the coolant.
Replace dirty or rusty coolant.
Windshield Washer Fluid Level
Check the washer fluid level in the reservoir. Add fluid if
necessary.
AT LEAST TWICE A MONTH
Tire And Wheel Inspection and Pressure
Check
Check the tire for abnormal wear or damage. Also check
for damaged wheels. Check the tire pressure when the
tires are cold ( check the spare also, unless it is a
stowaway). Maintain the recommended pressures. Refer
to “Tire and Wheel” is in section 0B.
AT LEAST MONTHLY
Light Operation
Check the operation of the license plate light, the
headlights (including the high beams), the parking lights,
the fog lights, the taillight, the brake lights, the turn
signals, the backup lights and the hazard warning flasher.
Fluid Leak Check
Periodically inspect the surface beneath the vehicle for
water, oil, fuel or other fluids, after the vehicle has been
parked for a while. Water dripping from the air
conditioning system after use is normal. If you notice
fuel leaks or fumes, find the cause and correct it at once.
AT LEAST TWICE A YEAR
Power Steering System Reservoir Level
Check the power steering fluid level. Keep the power
steering fluid at the proper level. Refer to
Section 6A,
Power Steering System.
Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir Level
Check the fluid and keep it at the proper level. A low
fluid level can indicate worn disc brake pads which may
need to be serviced. Check the breather hole in the
reservoir cover to be free from dirt and check for an
open passage.
